“It’s always tea time in Wonderland” – afternoon tea at The Tempus

Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Chathill, Northumberland, lies The Tempus, a luxury hotel and restaurant located on the Charlton Hall Estate.

Sitting alongside Charlton Hall – a private Grade II* listed, 18th century stately home best known for its bespoke weddings and events – The Tempus offers a whimsical and unique addition to the already striking estate.

Recently, The Doxford Group, the company behind The Tempus, Charlton Hall and Doxford Barns, announced it will donate £2 from every afternoon tea to Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS).

North East Times was kindly invited to take a look around and try the afternoon tea.

We arrived at The Tempus on a sunny Wednesday afternoon. The restaurant was luxurious while keeping to its ‘entirely bonkers’ theme, inspired by Alice in Wonderland. As we admired the décor, we were taken to our table.

We walked through the bar, past the neon lights and disco balls, and were taken to The Orangery, which was beautiful and full of natural light. The sweet aroma of tea and pastries aligned perfectly with the pink and orange furnishings that surrounded us.

The Mad Hatter famously uttered, “Yes, indeed, the tea – you must have a cup of tea,” so we followed his sage advice and did precisely that.

After a glass of fizz, we were offered a pot of Northumberland-based Bari Tea to accompany our food. The use of a local, quality tea broker, as opposed to a larger brand, was a wonderful touch, and highlighted The Doxford Group’s level of investment in the region.

Knowing the tea leaves were blended just down the road made the taste even sweeter.

We then were presented with our charming tower of treats.

An exhibition of colour and intricate design, each item was crafted with such finesse it seemed almost sacrilegious to take a bite.

From dainty finger sandwiches and sausage rolls to decadent pastries and sweet and savoury scones, every part of the menu complemented each other, and we savoured every mouthful.

Impressive, yet unpretentious, the afternoon tea at The Tempus serves as the perfect setting for a treat with your loved ones, or a business meeting with a difference.

From the impeccable service to the imaginative décor and delectable food, we were certainly transported to wonderland.

You can find out more about The Tempus and its afternoon tea here, and read the full menu here.

Afternoon tea at the Tempus, on the Charlton Hall Estate, is prepared by pastry chef Catherine Smith, who brings experience from The Ritz and Betty’s Cookery School.

Her menu is inspired by ingredients sourced from the restaurant’s neighbours in Northumberland and the Borders, to serve fine mini cakes, scones and delicate finger sandwiches paired with tea, prosecco and champagne.

A special afternoon tea is also prepared for children, so the whole family can enjoy the experience together.