Afternoon Tea at Belvoir Castle
Afternoon tea is one of the most decadent and quintessential meals you can have. If you are on the hunt for the perfect spot for afternoon tea in Leicestershire, Belvoir Castle is the place to visit.
Afternoon tea is part of Belvoir Castle’s history, where better to experience it than at the heart of the Vale of Belvoir?
The history of afternoon tea
Afternoon tea was actually invented at Belvoir Castle in the mid-1840s!
It all started when the Duchess of Bedford, Anna Maria Russell came to Belvoir Castle to visit the 5th Duke of Rutland. When Anna Maria Russell became hungry before dinner time, she decided that waiting for supper would be far too long. When sandwiches and cakes were prepared for her and served with a pot of tea, afternoon tea was born.
Afternoon tea soon became popular around the UK and across the world, and people continued to share the delights of afternoon tea with their visitors. To this day, afternoon tea is a popular way of treating and socialising with family and friends.
Traditionally, afternoon tea includes an array of sandwiches and scones with clotted cream and jam. Cakes and pastries complete the offering, and it is served with a pot of fresh tea.
The evolution of afternoon tea at Belvoir Castle
The Aviary has recently undergone significant refurbishment, so your experience will be extra special. Ray, a member of the Belvoir Castle team, worked with the Duchess of Rutland on the decor of the Duchess Parlour and is responsible for the beautiful hand-painted murals at the Aviary.
When developing the afternoon tea menus, our Head Chef Jane hosted dedicated tastings and worked with the Duchess of Rutland to curate the choice of afternoon tea delights that you see on the menus today, including tasty options tailored to specific dietary requirements.
Afternoon tea at the Aviary
The Aviary is a decadent Regency-styled tearoom with eye-catching bird-themed decor at Belvoir Castle. Enjoy a variety of finger sandwiches on a selection of breads, with delectable scones, pastries and cakes to sweeten the meal. From dainty macarons to fudgy chocolate brownies, your sweet tooth is sure to be satisfied. Once you have finished, you can relax and explore the surrounding castle, grounds and Engine Yard shopping village.
Stay with us
If you’re searching for a memorable day out in Leicestershire for couples, afternoon tea is a great way to reconnect and unwind as you enjoy great food and soak in the surroundings of the Vale of Belvoir.
Why don’t you extend your afternoon tea experience with a romantic break at Vale House? With nine rooms available, you can stay in a bespoke room, designed and detailed by the Duchess of Rutland. Alternatively, for a longer break, you can explore the selection of local lodges available to book here.
Afternoon tea: Frequently asked questions
Can we bring children to afternoon tea at Belvoir Castle?
Yes, children are very welcome! We have specific children’s menus at both the Aviary and the Duchess Parlour for your little ones.
How much does afternoon tea at Belvoir Castle cost?
Afternoon tea at Belvoir Castle starts at £90 for two at the Aviary, with entry to the castle gardens and grounds included in the experience.
Is there a dress code for afternoon tea at Belvoir Castle?
No, we recommend smart-casual attire for afternoon tea at Belvoir Castle, but if you wish to dress more formally, you are more than welcome to.
Can you buy vouchers for afternoon tea at Belvoir Castle?
Yes, you can purchase a variety of gift vouchers here.
What do you do during afternoon tea?
Quite simply, you sit and savour the delicious bite-sized feast as you sip tea! Finger sandwiches are also usually eaten with your fingers rather than cutlery.
How to book
If you’d like to sample afternoon tea at Belvoir Castle or celebrate a special occasion, you can book online here. If you would like to book afternoon tea for a larger group of 15 people or more, you can contact [email protected] and we will be happy to accommodate you.
Are you on the hunt for a gift that includes an unforgettable day out in Leicestershire? You can treat your loved ones to a Belvoir Castle afternoon tea gift voucher here.
Soft finger sandwiches, crumbly scones and the finest sweet delights await at Belvoir Castle.