High Chai Afternoon Tea at Ansty Hall Review
DISCLOSURE – THIS EXPERIENCE WAS GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST/S FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW.
Reviewed by Lindsay Burton
Today, I had the pleasure of experiencing the High Chai afternoon tea at the charming Ansty Hall, an elegant venue known for its period charm and refined atmosphere. From the moment we arrived, the attention to detail was evident. We were seated in a beautifully decorated dining room that exuded warmth and sophistication, with tasteful décor that immediately set a relaxed yet luxurious tone for the afternoon. Our table was promptly prepared, with water glasses filled and a selection of hot beverages offered as we settled in.
For my initial choice, I opted for the Dirty Chai Latte, while my husband selected a more traditional English Breakfast Tea. The menu described the Latte as a distinctive blend of loose-leaf black tea infused with cinnamon, cardamom, ginger root, fennel seed, black pepper, and cloves, complemented by an espresso shot. It was a bold and adventurous flavour profile—intense and aromatic, clearly designed to leave an impression. While I appreciate inventive combinations, I found the drink somewhat overpowering, with the various spices competing for attention and creating an almost perfumed experience that was not to my personal taste. I quickly switched to an English Breakfast tea, which proved a comforting and familiar alternative.
The meal began with a sweet potato starter that immediately impressed. Presented with a delicate foam topping—perhaps a touch unnecessary—the sweet potato itself was rich, velvety, and intensely flavourful, with the consistency of a thick, creamy soup. Each spoonful was comforting and well-balanced, making for a genuinely enjoyable introduction to the afternoon tea experience.
Following the starter, a classic three-tiered stand was brought to the table, artfully arranged with an enticing selection of sandwiches, wraps, and pastries. The savoury tier included chestnut mushroom and goat’s cheese rolls, miniature BLTs on soft brioche, delicate cucumber and chive cream cheese sandwiches, and coronation chicken wraps with mango chutney. Each item was carefully prepared, visually appealing, and offered a pleasing variety of textures and flavours that complemented each other perfectly.
Equally impressive was the patisserie selection. The presentation was elegant and refined, with Louis XV pastries, violet and blackberry Swiss rolls, cherry blossom and matcha macarons, and vibrant yuzu and lemon tarts. Each confection was a miniature work of art, showcasing creativity, precision, and a keen understanding of flavour combinations.
Finally, the afternoon tea included freshly baked plain and apple-and-cinnamon scones, served with clotted cream and homemade strawberry jam. By this stage, we were comfortably full, unable to manage another bite, so the scones were thoughtfully packaged to enjoy at home—a considerate touch that allowed us to extend the experience.
Overall, the High Chai afternoon tea at Ansty Hall offered a memorable and indulgent experience. From the elegant surroundings to the thoughtfully curated menu, every element demonstrated care, skill, and attention to detail. While some flavours were bold and not to every taste, the combination of innovation, presentation, and traditional favourites made for an afternoon tea that was both unique and thoroughly enjoyable. Booking is easy and a table can be reserved online https://www.exclusive.co.uk/ansty-hall/ or you could make a reservation by calling them on 02476 612222.
The High Chai Afternoon Tea is priced at £37 per person from Monday to Friday, and £42 per person on Saturdays and Sundays. I would confidently rate this experience a full 5 out of 5. The venue itself is delightful—peaceful, elegantly appointed, and set within a picturesque environment that makes it an ideal location for a leisurely, indulgent afternoon. Ideal as a Mother’s Day gift that any mom would love.
Rating: 5/5