A British tradition since 1840, afternoon tea has developed into a popular activity to enjoy with family and friends. The Cottage in the Wood Malvern first opened as a tea room in 1919 and continued operating until the 1950s.
Now transformed into a boutique hotel with an award-winning restaurant, it continues to offer this quintessential experience. Lise Evans took her mum to sample the delights.
More a hotel on a hill than a cottage in the wood, the understated yet elegant destination has fascinating literary, musical and political connections.
The late Baroness Thatcher was a regular guest in the 1980s and Rolling Stone Charlie Watts, Adam Ant, and The Specials are all said to have links with the hotel. Indeed, Edward Elgar, whose compositions were inspired by the Malverns, played to a private audience here in the 1920s.
A visit to the Malvern Hills is synonymous with scenic walks in a stunning landscape and dramatic views of Worcestershire, Herefordshire, and The Cotswolds. The epitome of the Great Outdoors.
All that walking and fresh air can give you a hearty appetite. So, a traditional afternoon tea, savoury sandwiches, freshly-baked buttermilk scones and an array of sweet treats was perfect post-stroll.
The Cottage in the Wood Malvern makes a charming destination. Twice winner of Restaurant of the Year at the Taste of Worcestershire Awards, and 3AA rosette to boot, this privately-owned establishment makes a welcome endpoint with plenty to offer.
The new lunchtime five-course tasting menu uses the finest locally-sourced ingredients. New head chef, Mark Potts, joined in the summer and to add to its culinary prowess, 1919 Restaurant has been listed in this year’s Michelin Guide.
A note to return and sample a cocktail in the cosy and colourful lounge bar with stunning vistas has been made. Or perhaps Pimm’s on the terrace during summer months. Spirit lovers might be tempted by a gin school experience alongside an overnight stay.
Afternoon tea is served in the 1919 Restaurant in what can only be described as a room with the most majestic views of the Severn Valley below. A wide choice of loose-leaf tea from Assam to Lapsang Souchong or a cafetiere of coffee is served with a three-tier cake stand laden with finger sandwiches and baked delights.
Cured ham with violet mustard mayonnaise, mature Cheddar cheese and spring onion, smoked salmon, lemon and chive creme fraiche were swiftly devoured options along with a robust-looking Gloucester Old Spot sausage roll.
Mighty plain and sultana scones were then soon piled high with clotted cream and strawberry jam, although my guest commented they were not sure how clientele were expected to manage two of these big boy bakes.
To finish, there was mini carrot cake, Battenburg, blackberry framboisier, and exquisite pistachio macarons—all demolished and washed down with a fresh pot of English Breakfast tea.
Our appetites were most definitely satiated.
• The Cottage in the Wood Malvern’s Afternoon Tea is served Wednesday to Sunday from 3pm in the award-winning 1919 Restaurant or on the outdoor terrace. Dietary requirements such as veggie, gluten-free and variations are available so request when booking.
Visit cottageinthewood.co.uk for more information.
