Exotic tea blends from the east, and ox cheek doughnuts - the new Afternoon Tea at The Refuge’s Winter Garden

When you think about it, afternoon tea should really be about the tea.

So the new afternoon tea at The Refuge beautiful winter garden is leaning into some pretty superb tea.

Behind the leaves is James Green, who first learned about tea while serving in the British armed forces in Japan, where he encountered the world renowned Nepalese regiment the gurkhas.

What he doesn’t know about tea, isn’t worth knowing – and as Tea From The Manor, based in Holmes Chapel in Cheshire, he’s blended a special brew for the Refuge’s new afternoon tea – the unique Refuge Blend, featuring rosehip, hibiscus, peppermint, blackcurrant, and strawberry leaves.

It joins a range which could easily rival any wine list – including Peppermint Black, exotic Rum Arabica and Silver Needle, alongside high quality iterations of classics like Earl Grey.

Of course, the food is pretty special too.

We’re talking savoury ox cheek doughnuts, egg mayo sandwiches with truffle, smoked salmon and pickled cucumber brioche, miniature Opera cakes and a stunner of an individual lemon meringue pie.

All that remains is to decide whether it’s cream or jam first on your sour cherry scone, or to throw in a glass of champagne alongside some world-class tea.

David Lockhart, general manager of Kimpton Clocktower Hotel, said: “A lot of work and passion has gone into the Afternoon Tea experience, and we’re proud and excited to finally be opening bookings. We love bringing unique luxury experiences to our guests – whether it’s a birthday, anniversary or just a treat after a day of shopping.”

The Refuge afternoon tea runs from 12pm to 2.30pm daily, at £35 per person, or £49 for the champagne option.

You can book in here…