Time for Tea.....Washingbourough Hall, Lincoln

Hello there,

Welcome back to another guest post from Tea With Me and Friends, we always love to hear about the afternoon teas that have been enjoyed by other people and this week we are joined again by Ele Crossland. Ele is sharing her afternoon tea adventures in Lincoln at Washingborough Hall......

Just a few miles out of the buzzing Cathedral city of Lincoln is Washingborough Hall. Nestled comfortably into its surroundings, this beautiful Georgian rectory is now a fantastic hotel, restaurant and wedding venue. Luckily for me, they serve an outstanding afternoon tea which I just had to try. On a sunny day with a brisk wind, we decided against the stately dining room, cosy library and comfortable bar area to sit in the garden and appreciate the views towards Lincoln. It’s hard to believe that this peaceful green space, where the birds singing is pretty much the only sound you here, is mere minutes from a thriving City.

I’d booked the afternoon tea ahead and was pleasantly surprised to be welcomed in the spacious hall with such enthusiasm. The staff here are clearly briefed on the day’s reservations as we were immediately shown to the sitting room and offered a seat. They were happy for us to sit outside, despite it meaning they had to negotiate some steep stone steps whilst laden with food. I loved their cheerful approach and felt able to relax immediately.

Afternoon tea at Washingborough is a traditional affair, served on the ubiquitous tiered stand, yet with some modern twists from chef. As well as an interesting range of sandwiches (hummus and salad, roasted vegetable and goats cheese) we enjoyed a new one for me – savoury cheese scones with local Lincolnshire Poacher cheese and punchy pickled red cabbage. These were so unusual and scrumptious – I would definitely consider choosing more of those over the usual finger sandwich. 

The afternoon tea stand was adorned with a selection of delicate and very pretty confections. Although the mini chocolate éclair was melt in the mouth, my favourite was the cherry Bakewell slice. With very clearly defined layers, masses of punchy flavour and exquisite presentation, it was so enjoyable. The third sweet was a tiny finger of carrot cake. The cream cheese frosting was divine. I’d clocked an entire carrot cake on the reception desk so made a note to return for coffee and a full-size slice soon. 

As the level had been set so high by the preceding courses, I fully expected the scones (one plain, one fruit) to pass the ‘scone test’. Hurrah! They did, breaking perfectly down the middle when twisted. Although we were both rather full from the savoury and sweet courses, as well as the never-ending pot of English Breakfast tea which was regularly replenished by the staff, I managed to sample one with fresh jam and thick clotted cream. Delicious, although the second scone had to go in a doggy bag along with a piece of carrot cake and the leftover Bakewell slice.

Sitting in an English country garden on a sunny day is a sure way to relax, and the staff seem every happy for their guests to while away a few hours with them. It’s true that the English weather might not always be kind enough to allow for alfresco afternoon tea, but both the bar/sitting room and the library make for cosy hideaways to sit, chat and eat. I can’t wait for December when their Festive afternoon tea menu comes out. I’ll be first in line for their afternoon tea mince pies and mulled wine. Cheers!

Well, don't those scones look amazing? Afternoon tea at Washingborough Hall costs £14.50 per person and is served is served every day between 2pm (3pm on Sundays) and 6pm. To find out more about those homemade cakes pop by their website.

A big thank you to Ele for sharing her scrummy afternoon tea adventure with us, we can't wait to see where she visits next! If you have an afternoon tea that you'd like to share with us please drop us a line!

Thank you for popping by today,

Rachel & Lorna