A team of undercover inspectors have voted The Manor House Hotel in Castle Combe as one of the UK’s top afternoon tea 
venues for its quality, range and service in the Award of Excellence category in the Tea Guild’s prestigious 2013 Tea Guild Awards.
The Manor House was one of 37 city and countryside hotels nationwide shortlisted for the awards, considered to be the Oscars of the tea industry. Other winners included The Goring Hotel in central London and The Mondagu Arms in Hampshire.
The anonymous judges booked in for afternoon tea and awarded points for the variety, flavour and knowledge of the teas offered, together with the quality of food, service, décor, ambience, and presentation – and The Manor House Hotel scored highly in every section.
Head of The Tea Guild Irene Gorman said: “This Award of Excellence was presented in recognition of consistently high standards of tea making and customer service, evident in the care and attention to detail with which the afternoon tea was prepared and served.
“The judges’ task of choosing establishments who receive an Award of Excellence is always extremely challenging and this year’s competition was no exception. The tradition of afternoon tea has never been stronger, with Tea Guild members busier than ever.”
The competition is now in its 28th year and Ms Gorman added: “Tea Guild member establishments all have a wide variety of teas to choose from, including favourites such as white and green tea as well as special blends that are often unique. Modern day life can be very hectic and demanding and taking afternoon tea is the perfect way to slow down and relax, bringing huge emotional and wellbeing benefits.”
Tea consumption has increased by 20% over the past year. Britons drink on average 165m cups of tea a day – roughly 60,225m a year.
