Oulton Hall Festive Afternoon Tea – Review

By Kirsty Masterman

Nestled in the sweeping Yorkshire countryside on the outskirts of Leeds, stands Oulton Hall, a majestic Grade II-listed 18th-century mansion. During the holiday season, this historic gem truly glitters, especially with its renowned festive afternoon tea, which perfectly blends tradition, elegance and Christmas cheer.

We arrive on a crisp winter day, via the grand, sweeping driveway. Greeted by festive decorations, twinkling lights draped across the façade with Christmas trees framing the entrance. They’ve even rolled out the red carpet for us! Well, it’s more likely for the wedding that is currently in full swing or for anyone visiting the Hall, but I can pretend can’t I. Towering Christmas tress greet us as we enter the hall and garlands adorn the staircase. The air carries the festive aromas of pine and cinnamon, setting a magical tone.

Oulton have certainly gone all out to create a tasteful festive ambience. There’s even a station of festive pet treats.

We are directed to the drawing room. An elegant, high-ceilinged space with lots of nooks and crannies for privacy (and people watching). Period furnishings make this the elegant space it is, bookshelves adorned with the classics.

“Delicious looking”

We choose a table tucked away in the corner, with far-reaching views across the perfectly manicured gardens.

We are shown to our table by the lovely Robbie, our butler for the next couple of hours.

“Good afternoon ladies, my name is Robbie and I’ll be your butler today”. I look over my shoulder, not sure who he talking to, but he confirms with a wry smile, that it is indeed us. Now I really do feel like the red carpet was rolled out for us.

The service is impeccable from the get-go. Attentive without being intrusive. No sooner have we been seated and I find myself swirling a glass of sweet champagne as we are talked through the menu.

Shortly after, a silver tea service arrives at our table, accompanied by a three-tier silver stand adorned with the most delicious looking sweet treats and savouries. It is certainly impressive.

“Treat for the senses”

This festive menu elevates the classic British afternoon tea with seasonal twists. Delicate finger sandwiches brim with festive fillings, including roast turkey and red onion, alongside brie and cranberry are served up with both fruit and plain scones, (warm of course), clotted cream and strawberry preserve.

These are followed by a trio of showpiece festive treats of chocolate mousse Christmas puddings, mini raspberry trifles – one topped with a candy cane, while the other has an edible sugary santa hat perched atop, and there Is the tastiest mince pie topped with a green swirl and gold star designed to look like a Christmas tree. This is truly a treat for the senses.

Oulton Hall’s festive afternoon tea or indeed afternoon tea at any time of the year offers a reprieve from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. A place to reset and enjoy the season, taking time out with a friend, while combining historic charm with heartfelt hospitality. It is definitely a gift to yourself.

Festive Afternoon Tea
Indulge in this great British tradition, with a festive twist. With savoury and sweet treats, plus options for little ones too, the Festive Afternoon Tea can be enjoyed from 1 November – 24 December. Treats include: Assorted sweet treats and fancies; Oven baked scones; Cornish Clotted cream and Strawberry Jam; a selection of traditional savoury finger sandwiches.
£42pp / £45pp with glass of Prosecco
£19 per child
oultonhallhotel.co.uk

Kirsty Masterman( Writer )

After studying English and Creative Writing at university, Kirsty started working as an editor for PA Media way back in 2003, joining On Yorkshire in 2023. With a passion for travel and writing, the chance to combine the two became a reality for her in 2010 when she was offered the chance to visit Portugal to review a new resort. Since then, she has never looked back. Live music, theatre and restaurant reviews followed enabling her to combine all her interests. Kirsty now travels the world, reviewing some of the best hotels, restaurants and travel destinations. She particularly enjoys seeking out child-friendly places so that she can showcase destinations and experiences that can be enjoyed by parents alongside their children. 

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