Horton Grange Hits The Heights

Falling spectacularly off the new year diet wagon, I recently visited Horton Grange Country House Hotel for afternoon tea with my friend Harriet, and what a treat it was.

Situated in the heart of Northumberland near to Newcastle Airport, the Grade-II listed privatelyowned hotel is ideally located to explore the surrounds of Ponteland. Available to host various events including weddings and corporate functions, the venue boasts nine luxurious bedrooms, an award-winning restaurant and snug bar and lounge areas. With numerous dining options available including Sunday Lunch and an exquisite à la carte menu, on this occasion we were delighted to sample the hotel’s afternoon tea offering, which has gained a renowned reputation within the region.

After a warm welcome, we were swiftly ushered to the hotel’s cosy lounge area. With open fires, comfortable sofas and traditional decor, the venue promotes a relaxing and intimate atmosphere, whilst the large windows still maintain a light and airy feel. Ready for an afternoon of indulging, we perused the afternoon tea menu and were delighted by the prospect of finger-cut sandwiches, scones and sweet treats that were on offer. Served daily from 12 til 5, the hotel offers a unique take on afternoon tea, with both a classic afternoon tea menu, as well as a Gentleman’s afternoon tea offering. This includes an abundant selection of coffees and loose leaf teas, from the classic English Breakfast to more adventurous blends like Darjeeling and Green Dragon. With a special offer of only £29.50 for two people throughout February and March, afternoon tea at Horton Grange is certainly not to be missed.

We were then presented with our three-tier masterpiece and were certainly not disappointed. Choosing the classic menu, I quickly tasted the scrumptious sandwiches, an array of British favourites including honey roasted ham, cheese savoury and roast beef & horseradish. Not just for men, Harriet instead opted for the Gentleman’s afternoon tea menu.

With delicious homemade scotch egg and mouth-watering steak & ale pie, the menu suited her savoury palette perfectly. Whilst I eagerly glugged a glass of prosecco on the side, Harriet enjoyed her tea, although there is the option to enjoy a glass of Glenfiddich whisky or vintage port alongside the Gentleman’s menu.

Of course, no afternoon tea is complete without scones, so I then devoured both the fruit and plain variety, which were soft and light in texture. Slavering sweet strawberry jam and rich clotted cream on top, the scones certainly hit the spot. With the Gentleman’s menu, Harriet savoured a tasty mature cheddar scone served with tangy tomato chutney, which was rich with spices and flavour. Despite feeling full, we were still delighted to sample the array of cakes and sweet treats that were on offer. With a selection of traditional favourites including mango panna cotta served with zingy orange jelly, my favourite had to be the milk chocolate delice, a heavenly layered dessert comprising milky chocolate mousse, rich ganache and a crumbly biscuit base.

Whilst the Gentleman’s menu is perfect for those who enjoy more savoury options, Harriet still enjoyed some tasty puddings, with delectable raspberry cranachan and delicious chocolate brownie. After a thoroughly relaxing afternoon, I can certainly see why afternoon tea has become a firm favourite amongst customers at Horton Grange. With friendly, attentive staff and impeccable service throughout, it is no surprise that the hotel receives many non-residents eager to try their afternoon tea too. Combined with the venue’s unique location of being easily accessible from Newcastle but still having the idyllic country house feel, Horton Grange really does tick all the boxes.