Review : Swallows and Amazons Afternoon Tea at Langdale Chase Hotel
If there’s one thing you can count on in the Lake District, it’s a brilliant afternoon tea. While there are plenty of options to enjoy a unique tea experience, if you’re looking for something luxurious, with stunning views over Lake Windermere and a rich Cumbrian heritage, the Swallows and Amazons Afternoon Tea at Langdale Chase Hotel is an absolute must!
A Touch of Luxury at Langdale Chase Hotel
For a truly luxurious afternoon tea experience, perfect for special occasions or just treating yourself, look no further than Langdale Chase Hotel. From the moment you walk through the grand entrance, you’re greeted by large windows that offer breathtaking, uninterrupted views of Windermere. It’s easy to see why this setting inspired Arthur Ransome, as it’s said he was a frequent visitor to the hotel, drawing on the surrounding beauty for his famous stories.
Swallows and Amazons Afternoon Tea at Langdale Chase
Your luxury experience begins as soon as you sit down. The hotel has partnered with local potters and woodworkers to create stunning tableware for the afternoon tea, including specially made plates and an adorable wooden box that holds a miniature telescope—perfect for admiring the view!
Now, let’s talk about the food, because it was nothing short of spectacular!
What to Expect at the Swallows and Amazons Afternoon Tea
One thing I loved about the afternoon tea at Langdale Chase is that it’s served in two courses: a savoury course followed by a sweet course. As a savoury food lover, this was a big win for me!
First up, you’re treated to a selection of sandwiches:
- Cucumber, mint, and yoghurt
- Pemmican beef, horseradish, and red onion
- Chopped egg, shallot, and watercress
- Smoked salmon, beetroot, and cream cheese
While all the sandwiches were delicious, the beef, horseradish, and red onion was the standout—it was absolutely perfect!
Then came the extra savoury treats:
- Lobster roll with sriracha hollandaise
- Potted shrimps on toasted crumpet with mace butter
- Cheddar doughnut with cheese custard and truffle
- Crispy ham hock with English mustard pickle
I have to say, the cheddar doughnut didn’t quite hit the mark for me, but the lobster roll and crispy ham hock were bursting with flavour. I could’ve eaten them all day long!
Time for Something Sweet
Once you’ve savoured the savoury course, the sweet course arrives, featuring six beautifully presented desserts. It honestly felt like something you’d see on the Great British Menu!
Alongside the classic fruit scones with strawberry preserve, we indulged in:
- Gooseberry choux
- Apple and hazelnut tart
- Rice pudding and jam
- Chocolate and marmalade slice
- Titty’s marmalade tea loaf
I enjoyed every single bite, even the rice pudding and jam, which I’m usually not a fan of! My personal favourites were the chocolate and marmalade slice (a genius flavour combination) and Titty’s marmalade tea loaf, which had a lovely hint of ginger.
What I loved most was the balance of flavours—it wasn’t overly sweet, which can sometimes be the case with afternoon tea. Everything was well thought out and thoroughly enjoyable.
Final Thoughts on Afternoon Tea at Langdale Chase Hotel
The Swallows and Amazons Afternoon Tea at Langdale Chase Hotel is perfect for those looking to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy an indulgent afternoon with a view. The food is top-notch, the service impeccable, and the setting breathtaking. It’s definitely a foodie experience, so if you’re a bit of a fussy eater, this might not be for you. But for those who love unique flavour combinations and local touches, this afternoon tea is a must-try.
Not only will you leave with a full stomach, but you’ll also take with you memories of the stunning views over Windermere, making this afternoon tea experience one to remember. So get to enjoy it whilst looking at some of the most incredible and uninterrupted views of the lake district!
This would be the perfect christmas gift for someone special in your life!
If you’re wanting some more inspiration for your trip to The Lake District, make sure to have a read of The Lake District section of Postcards From! And click here if you’re a fellow foodie for more food guides.
This afternoon tea was complimentary in exchange for this review. However, all views and opinions are my own.
