Discover why afternoon tea at The Claremont is the ultimate escapist treat.

Nestled in the leafy streets of central Hove lies a 5-star gem which is The Claremont. Housed in a Victorian villa, which now boasts an exquisite 11 bedrooms, this is the perfect spot to get away from it all and relax. We were lucky enough to head to The Claremont and be hosted for afternoon tea, sometimes I can’t believe how fortunate I am to have this job! Heading into the beautiful drawing room out of the grey Wednesday weather, we were greeted with a beautiful table set with flowers, vintage fine China, and an extensive tea menu that told us we were in for a real treat.

Alongside the drawing room, you can also enjoy afternoon tea sitting out in The Claremont’s gorgeous garden, enjoying the tranquillity, wonderful when the weather gets a bit better. Now back to the afternoon tea itself. After choosing a delicious pot of tea apiece we got stuck into the plate of finger sandwiches which we had been presented with. The classics are just that for a reason and the choice was a delicious range of fresh sandwiches, that were stuffed full of good, local, ingredients including cream cheese and cucumber, and smoked salmon, with crème fraiche and horseradish. Being a pescetarian wasn’t an issue, as there was plenty of choice and it wasn’t long before my colleague and I tucked in.

There is something so decadent about afternoon tea, the tradition of a 4 pm refreshment has often been forgotten, but I for one vote we bring it back, this traditional act of decadence deserves a return to our busy lives. Whether as a gift to someone else or yourself, you can choose from either the whole works (as we did) or the lighter cream tea-only option, great if you don’t have the full amount of time this tea deserves. Whichever option you choose, the scones at The Claremont were exceptional, easily the best I’ve tasted, Mary Berry herself would have been jealous of the crispy, golden exterior, and fluffy insides that broke exactly as they were meant to. Slathering these delicacies with cream sparked the obligatory discussion about which goes first, jam or cream, who cares when it tastes this good?

Following another pot of tea, (yes, I know, my tea-drinking abilities are notorious in the VisitBrighton offices) we faced a pretty cake stand with the most inviting-looking cakes on it, colourful macarons nestled against the fluffiest Victoria sponge, and gooey brownies. Alongside looking like something out of a glossy magazine, it all tasted amazing and I’m afraid to say we had to keep stopping to take pictures!

Sadly, work called, but this was such a delicious way of taking some time out to enjoy good company and delicious treats in lovely surroundings. We will definitely be returning to The Claremont to experience this again, I love that they do children’s afternoon teas too which you can add jelly and ice cream to, or you can make it more grown up with a glass of Prosecco or Champagne. I do need to also mention that at only £22.50 per head, this was a very reasonable way of spoiling yourself or someone you love (Gift Vouchers are available.) Vintage afternoon tea at The Claremont is a magnificent way of celebrating a special occasion such as a baby shower, birthday, or just a Wednesday afternoon! Booking is essential and highly recommended by us.

Caroline