Are these the best afternoon tea 'experiences' in Durham?

The quintessentially English tradition of afternoon/cream tea finally has its very own national day – today!

Afternoon tea became fashionable in the early 19th Century thanks to Anna, the Duchess of Bedford.

Back then it was customary for people in England to enjoy their evening meal at around 8-9pm, meaning hunger struck in the mid-afternoon. The duchess requested some light food and a pot of tea be brought to her quarters to wade off the hunger.

The idea became routine, and soon her high society lady friends were being invited to join her for ‘afternoon tea’. A new social event was born…

The light food served has gradually evolved over time, but this age old English tradition is very much a part of today’s society, and there are some wonderful afternoon tea experiences for you to indulge in during your visit.

Here are 4 of our top picks:

Bubbles in the bubble

At Horsley Hall Country House Hotel in Weardale, visitors can enjoy a truly unique sparkling afternoon tea experience.

Tuck into a selection of freshly made sandwiches with crisps and garden salad leaves, and enjoy afternoon tea inside a pod within the grounds of this stunning 17th Century manor house, overlooking the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

You will also get six homemade cakes including Horsley Hall popular tea bread with Weardale Cheese.

The Pod comfortably holds four/ five people; it has a table in the centre surrounded with banquet seating and manually rotates to catch the sun.

Prices start from £29.50 per adult. Call 01388 517239 

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Auckland Castle’s Library Tearoom

Settle back into a deep leather armchair surrounded by ancient tomes at the Library tearoom at Auckland Castle – palace of Durham’s unique Prince Bishops for over 900 years.

Indulge in an array of dainty sandwiches, savouries, scones and a selection of delicious sweet treats washed down by a loose leaf speciality tea.

Afternoon tea at Auckland Castle is perfect for a celebration or a tasty treat. Why not make it extra special and upgrade your afternoon tea with glass of Champagne or prosecco from the exclusive wine and local ale selection.

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Tea in the garden

Crook Hall and Gardens is a real hidden gem in Durham City. Offering afternoon tea (and a sparkling afternoon tea) in a range of settings, the 13th Century building is surrounded by idyllic English gardens for you to explore during your visit.crook

Settle down for tea inside the Georgian Drawing Room and enjoy wonderful views of the walled gardens and Durham Cathedral, or simply relax and soak up the atmosphere as you tuck in to your tea al fresco.

The teas are a lavish serving of tantalising finger sandwiches, dainty cakes and a homemade scone warmed from the Aga with jam and cream. All of this is washed down with unlimited tea and coffee and a glass of bubbles!

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How about a sea view?

For some five-star luxury and a sea view to boot, head to the Durham Coast and discover Seaham Hall hotel.

It was in this building that romantic poet Lord Byron married 200 years ago, and now the Georgian building has been transformed into a stunning hotel and spa set amongst 37 acres of beautiful landscaped gardens.

With good weather, visitors can enjoy afternoon tea served on the terrace overlooking the coast and extensive gardens, or if the weather isn’t playing ball, head inside to Byron’s Bar and Grill – the hotel’s award-winning restaurant, for an indulgent dining experience.

Price from £22 per person

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These are just four of our suggestions for a delicious afternoon tea experience across the county, but there are many more hotels, attractions, cafes and tearooms offering you the chance to partake in this wonderfully English tradition, in some truly breathtaking locations such as Durham Cathedral.

Unfortunately we couldn't list them all (partly because we're now very hungry!) But you can take a look at our food and drink page to explore more eateries, or tell us your favourite place for afternoon tea on Facebook.