Tag: afternoon tea

The Tiger Keeper Who Came To Tea: Virgin Hotels launches a roarsome afternoon tea in collaboration with Edinburgh Zoo

Virgin Hotels Edinburgh is thrilled to announce an exciting new partnership with one of the city’s most beloved attractions, Edinburgh Zoo.

Together, they are set to launch a roarsome Afternoon Tea experience, taking inspiration from the cherished children’s book, The Tiger Who Came to Tea. This family-friendly event will debut on Friday, 18th of October, perfectly timed to coincide with the October school break.

The collaboration aims to provide a truly unique and unmissable experience for both locals and visitors to the capital. The event will take place in the hotel’s stunning Oculus Lounge, combining the opulence of the hotel’s popular Afternoon Tea service with a playfully wild twist for its younger guests.

Those who attend can expect a fun and immersive experience, hosted by one of Edinburgh Zoo’s talented Discovery Rangers.

The Ranger will kick off the event with an exciting storytelling experience, which allows guests to learn about the resident tigers at Edinburgh Zoo.

But that’s not all: the specially themed Afternoon Tea menu will also include a carefully curated selection of treats for children, ensuring that the whole family has a roaring good time.

Guests can enjoy a stylish Afternoon Tea menu of exquisite pastries paired with savoury treats and finely brewed teas, while the younger ones enjoy special treats like tiger cookies, milk chocolate pandas, scones and more! Pricing begins at £35 for adults and £15 for children, with two sittings available at 1pm and 3pm.

Adding to the excitement, guests will also get a glimpse straight into the ‘Tiger Den’ at Edinburgh Zoo on the day through a live stream.

Following the event, guests will be invited to the Scarlett Lounge for an exclusive screening of The Tiger Keeper Who Came to Tea animated film, giving adults the opportunity to relax with refreshments at Eve or Commons Club Bar.

Mafalda Albuquerque, General Manager at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh said: “We’re thrilled to offer our guests this unique family Afternoon Tea experience.

“Our collaboration with Edinburgh Zoo for this themed Afternoon Tea allows us to craft a memorable and educational day out, perfectly aligning with our mission to deliver family experiences that can be enjoyed by all.”

You can find out more information about this partnership here. Reservations can also be made by emailing afternoontea@virginhotels.com

You can also follow along on social media here: 

Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube

Autumnal styling, sandwiches and scones at Dobbies’ Edinburgh store

For October, Dobbies Garden Centres has launched a brand new autumn edition of its hands-on planting experience, combined with a tasty Afternoon Tea in its Edinburgh store.

Planting and Afternoon Tea: Autumn Edition is taking place on Tuesday 8 and Saturday 12 October, offering attendees the chance to create a seasonal style piece that can feature as a home or front door decoration.

Attendees at Dobbies’ Edinburgh store will get to participate in a hands-on 90-minute workshop led by one of Dobbies’ horti experts with a demo, Q&A session and the opportunity to craft your very own succulent planter, made from a pumpkin, to spook-ify autumnal decor (worth £40).

Dobbies will provide a terracotta pot, pumpkin and a mix of succulents such as Echeveria elegans, Aloe artisata and Graptopetalum pentadrum, all selected by Dobbies’ Senior Buyer, Claire Bishop, who featured as a judge at RHS Chelsea Flower Show this year.

Attendees will be invited to carve out a pumpkin to display the terracotta pot in, and then have the joy of picking succulents with a variety of colours and textures. Once Halloween is over and the pumpkin starts to fade, it can be recycled and the succulents can be used in the terracotta planter for an all-year-round display.

Before creating the seasonal succulent pumpkin, attendees at Dobbies’ Edinburgh store can enjoy a Traditional or Luxury Afternoon Tea, delving into three tiers of sweet and savoury delights. There are unlimited tea and coffee refills and the chance to upgrade the hot drink, or enjoy a glass of prosecco.

The Traditional Afternoon Tea offers an assortment of freshly made finger sandwiches, including smoked salmon with cream cheese, egg mayonnaise with watercress, and ham with rocket and wholegrain mustard.

Customers can also enjoy Dobbies’ famous scones, served with Cornish clotted cream and a pot of jam, and a delicious selection of sweet treats, including a rainbow meringue kiss and lemon mousse. The upgrade to the Luxury Afternoon Tea is an additional £4 extra per person.

Dobbies’ Events Programme Manager, Ayesha Nickson, is excited to see what centrepieces customers at the Edinburgh store craft during this workshop. She said: “Our Planting and Afternoon Tea experiences have been hugely popular and this version with an autumn twist is the perfect opportunity to create a seasonal decoration that could be styled in your home or entrance way. 

“Whether you’re a novice and have little experience with plant styling, or are looking to have some interior fun this autumn, this experience in our Edinburgh store is a great way to try something new. Plus our Afternoon Tea in the restaurant is a great way for attendees to enjoy a delicious array of sweet and savoury treats.”

The Planting and Afternoon Tea: Autumn Edition is priced at £45 per person and is now bookable at dobbies.com/events.

Dobbies offers a programme of autumnal events. Families can get involved in Dobbies’ Little Scare-lings, a frightfully fun Howl-o-ween party taking place across various dates throughout October, priced at £10.99 per child and £7.40 per adult.

If you’re looking for a pumpkin picking experience, Dobbies’ Pumpkin Patch is kicking off on Saturday 19 October across 20 stores, offering children the chance to enjoy some activities, seasonal treats and pumpkin of their choice to take home, priced at £9.99 per person.

Known for its love of dogs, Dobbies has also introduced a Pup-kin Patch for those who want their pooches to join in the fun. Priced at £8 per pup, this event allows dogs at Dobbies to explore the Pup-kin Patch and pick out a Halloween-themed toy to take home before getting their photo taken in an autumnal setting by a Dobbies colleague.

To learn more about the autumnal events and to make a booking, visit dobbies.com/events.

British Summer Sports Afternoon Tea at The Caledonian Edinburgh

Celebrate the spirit of British summer sports with The Caledonian Edinburgh’s latest afternoon tea, featuring a variety of innovative sandwiches such as Squash, Chilli & Coconut Quiche; Hoisin Duck Crème Fraîche Wrap; and Steelhead Smoked Trout & Pear Chutney.

The pastry chefs have hit it out of the park with selections including the baseball Yogurt & Mango Compote Macaron; football Mint Buttercream & Lime Ganache Battenberg; and tennis Coconut Paste & White Chocolate Crunch Pepite – for sport fans and pastry lovers alike.

Standing proudly at the West End of Princes Street, this former Victorian railway building hotel nestles in the shadow of the imposing Edinburgh Castle. Its reputation for style and excellence has attracted generations of locals, internationals, and notable personalities for over one hundred years.

Formerly the station concourse and ticket office, The Lounge represents the historic heart of the Caley – the perfect setting for an unforgettable afternoon tea. 

The British Summer Sports afternoon tea is available in The Lounge, The Caledonian Edinburgh daily from 12:30 – 4pm. Gluten free, vegan, and children’s menus are also available. The menu can be viewed here.

Bookings can be made by emailing dining@edinburghcaledonian.com or calling the reservations team directly at 0131 222 8832.

One Square pays tribute to Edinburgh’s storytellers with launch of new afternoon tea menu

New menu is inspired by Edinburgh’s famous authors, their words and wisdom 

One Square, The Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa’s award-winning bar and brasserie, has unveiled a unique Afternoon Tea menu inspired by Edinburgh’s best storytellers and their famous tales.

Each dish will take guests on a journey of escapism through different chapters of history inspired by Edinburgh’s greatest stories, poetry and prose. 

From Robert Burns to Irvine Welsh and many in between, the new afternoon tea menu draws inspiration from each storyteller’s depiction of our city and each dish represents a different chapter, fact or fiction, that will leave guests wanting to return time and time again.

One Square’s expert chefs have spent months researching both flavour and infamy to curate this one-of-a-kind menu.

The inventive menu consists of everything from Robert Burns’ Haggis Bon Bons with soured neeps chutney, to Irvine Welsh’s Lind & Lime Gin cured salmon, citrus brioche and smoked poppy seeds.

Edinburgh’s Robert Louis Stevenson’s Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde is represented on the new menu through a flavour-changing cucumber based sandwich with both hot and cooler taste profiles.

Other storytellers found on the sweet section of the menu are J.K Rowling and a wizard inspired Jelly Bean tart, Arthur Conan Doyle’s raspberry cranachan and an ode to Rob Roy with a dark chocolate sweet vermouth-laced sponge.

From £59 per person, guests can enjoy One Square’s afternoon tea from 12:30pm-5:00pm, Wednesday to Saturday. Vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options are available upon request. 

Nick Durham, Director of Food and Beverage at The Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, explains: “Edinburgh – the world’s first UNESCO city of literature – is home to some of the greatest storytellers in the world, past and present.

“At One Square, we’re proud to have Scotland, and its stories, at the heart of everything we do. We wanted to create a menu that reflects and celebrates our deep-rooted culture and creativity. We’ve had a lot of fun designing our Afternoon Tea and believe the end result is unmatched and like no other. 

“Whether you’re looking to celebrate a special occasion or simply fancy a relaxed afternoon with friends, there really is something for everyone to enjoy.”

The new menu is available from today. For more information and for bookings, please visit https://www.onesquareedinburgh.co.uk/

Strachan House quizzers beat the Auld Enemy in Earth Day battle!

Residents and guests at Strachan House care home in Blackhall enjoyed a morning of quizzing and a classic English High tea as they hosted a virtual quiz with Goodson Lodge care centre in Trowbridge.

Residents in the Goodson Lodge Care centre were treated to irn bru, whisky and shortbread as both teams battled it out to see who would be crowned quiz master champion. 

Teams from both the English and Scottish homes provided quiz questions about their country whilst the other side aimed to guess the answers with mouthfuls of their countries’ finest fare.

General Manager, Fran Fisher said, “Our residents had a wonderful morning and were really excited to meet new people and learn lots of amazing new things.

“It’s always great to connect with others in the care industry and we hope we can continue for many years to come”. 

The quiz held on Earth Day was a true celebration of community and coming together. The Scottish team took the win this year but, with this now being an annual event, we will see if the English team can make it a draw next year! 

Strachan House care home is run by Barchester Healthcare, one of the UK’s largest care providers, which is committed to delivering personalised care across its care homes and hospitals. 

Strachan House provides Nursing and Dementia care  for 83 residents from respite care to long term stays.

Once Upon A Time afternoon tea at The Caledonian

Peacock Alley, located at the heart of The Caledonian in Edinburgh, is now serving Once Upon a Time afternoon tea, available until 2nd June.

Embark on a magical journey with Once Upon a Time afternoon tea at Peacock Alley.

A selection of sandwiches created by head chef Ryan MacFarlane feature selections such as Chilli Arran Cheddar and Scottish Smoked Salmon with Dill Crème Fraiche, followed by an enchanting array of pastries created by head pastry chef Tamara Curcic.

Selections such as the Happily Ever After (Cracked Pepper, Salted Caramel, and Burnt White Chocolate Cream Puff) and Frog Prince (Flourless Chocolate Sponge, Mint and Chocolate Chip Pepitè) are straight out of a fairy tale.

Standing proudly at the West End of Princes Street, this former Victorian railway building hotel nestles in the shadow of the enchanting Edinburgh Castle. Formerly the station concourse and ticket office, Peacock Alley represents the historic heart of the Caley.

It is imbued with the peerless style and sophistication of this famous former railway hotel, offering the perfect backdrop for your fairy tale afternoon tea.

Once Upon a Time is available in Peacock Alley, The Caledonian daily from 12:30 – 4pm, until 2nd June. Gluten free, vegan, and children’s menus are also available. Priced at £60 per adult and £30 per child. The menu can be viewed here.

Bookings can be made by emailing caledonian.dining@waldorfastoria.com or calling the reservations team directly at 0131 222 8832.

Strachan House Care Home invites community to Open Day

The Strachan House care home in Blackhall will be opening their doors to the local community for a day of tea and entertainment on Saturday 20th April.

Taking place between 10am and 4pm guests will be able to enjoy home-made cream cakes prepared by Paul Dow the home’s Head Chef, and will have the chance to meet the team and take a tour of the home. 

Fran Fisher, General Manager at Strachan House says: “I’m excited about welcoming new visitors and existing friends of the home to our open day.

“Looking for care can be a little bit daunting, but our team here at Strachan House will do all we can to provide all of our guests with the guidance and support they may need, and answer all of their questions, big or small.

“Our open day is a great chance to enjoy some delightful entertainment in a homely and friendly setting- hope to see you all there!”

Strachan House care home is run by Barchester Healthcare, one of the UK’s largest care providers, which is committed to delivering personalised care across its care homes and hospitals. Strachan House provides residential care, nursing care and dementia care for 83 residents from respite care to long term stays.

Full Steam Ahead for 102 year old Muriel

STRACHAN House resident Muriel Sinclair had always wanted to jump on board and relive her journeys she would take on a steam train, so staff at the home made her  wish a reality with their Gone Fishing 23 project.

Muriel said some of her fondest memories was travelling around Scotland on days out with her children, and the fun they would have as a family. 

Muriel has lived at Strachan House for many years and at 102 she is dearly loved by the staff and residents alike. Staff jumped on board when they heard of her memories travelling from Edinburgh to Dundee on the steam trains and worked in secret to ensure her surprise was kept on the right track.

Speaking with Boness Railway about Muriel the team organised for her to take a 70 minute steam train ride whilst enjoying a good old fashion afternoon tea.

What Muriel didn’t also know was when she reached the platform her daughter was there to surprise. And as if that wasn’t enough excitement for one day, the station master and guards then surprised her with a First class compartment to ensure she had a day to remember!

Mandy Head of Activities said “Our Gone Fishing 23 is all about making that meaningful moment happen and this like many others, was very special. To see Muriel’s face light up when she heard the steam train pull up was just magical!”

“I’m 102 and never ever thought I’d take another ride on a steam train. I can hardly see now, but the smell of smoke and the sounds reminded me instantly of the fun journeys I would take in my younger days. I can’t thank the team enough for an amazing day. The afternoon tea was just the cherry on the top of such a wonderful surprise.”

Gordon Philp General Manager at the home, said: “We want everyone we care for to know how important they are to us here at Strachan House.

“It was marvellous see how overwhelmed Muriel was – and how hard the team works behind the scenes to make sure our residents have such special moments like these.”

Strachan House care home is run by Barchester Healthcare, one of the UK’s largest care providers, which is committed to delivering personalised care across its care homes and hospitals. Strachan House provides residential care, nursing care and dementia care for 83 residents from respite care to long term stays.

Fun-filled Fathers Day at local Care Home

Residents at Strachan House in Blackhall enjoyed an Afternoon Tea and photoshoot with their loved ones on Sunday in celebration of Father’s Day. 

With the lovely warm weather residents were able to enjoy meeting up with loved ones in the home’s garden over afternoon tea freshly prepared by the home’s talented chefs.

Throughout the afternoon the residents and their children were then offered a photo shoot session to capture the special moment with a keepsake photo of their day together. 

Gordon Philp, General Manager of the home, said: “We’ve all had a wonderful day today welcoming friends and family into the home.

“Occasions like Father’s Day are so important, it was fantastic to have such a lovely gathering with our residents and their loved ones all together enjoying the sunshine.”

Gerry Smith, resident at Strachan House said: “I’ve had a great time celebrating with my daughter,it has been so lovely to see them and spend some quality time together. 

“Father’s Day is such a special day, I’m so pleased we were all able to celebrate together.”

Strachan House Care Home’s varied life enrichment programme keeps residents active and provides a daily choice of engaging physical, mental and spiritual activities tailored to residents’ interests and abilities.

Strachan House is run by Barchester Healthcare, one of the UK’s largest care providers, which is committed to delivering high-quality care across its care homes and hospitals. Strachan House provides nursing care, residential care, respite care.

Morrisons offers Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea for just £10

  • Afternoon tea includes a tower of sandwiches, cakes, fruit scones and a pot of tea for £10 –
  • Offer available in Morrisons cafés nationwide from 13th – 19th March –

Morrisons has cut the price of its popular afternoon tea for two to just £10 in its cafés ahead of Mother’s Day. 

Customers will receive a selection of sandwiches, cakes, fruit scones – complete with jam and clotted cream, and a pot of Yorkshire Tea for mums to enjoy as a tasty treat at an affordable price. 

The afternoon tea is presented on a three-tier stand just as it is in hotels and upmarket restaurants to give customers a touch of luxury and make the momentous day extra special.

For those that want to dine from the comfort of their own home, the afternoon tea can also be ordered for collection from the store at a date and time that is convenient for them.

At £5 per person, the Morrisons afternoon tea is a fraction of the price of alternatives including Fortnum & Mason’s which will set diners back £75 each.*

For younger customers looking to treat mum with their pocket money, there are alternative options available including:

  • toasted fruit tea cakes for £1.29
  • crumpets for just £0.99
  • hot drinks from £1.29.

Morrisons is committed to providing good quality food at affordable prices in its cafés and this deal follows the recent launch of a two-course set menu for just £8.99 . Morrisons is also continuing to reduce prices across its stores and has cut costs of 1,000s of products this year alone.  

Chris Strong, Morrisons Café buyer, says: “Treating mum shouldn’t cost the earth, that’s why we’re helping our customers by cutting the price of our popular afternoon tea for two just in time for Mother’s Day. 

“Customers can spoil mum with a selection of tasty sandwiches, cakes and fruit scones for just £10 – we look forward to welcoming families into our cafés to celebrate.”

The afternoon tea for two is available in all Morrisons cafés nationwide and can also be ordered for collection.

To find your local café, visit: https://my.morrisons.com/storefinder/.