Carolyn Staunton from Sturminster Newton has recommended the Willow Tearooms in Shillingstone: “I held a very successful ladies traditional afternoon tea party at this charming 18th Century tearoom and restaurant last summer. It has a view of Hambledon Hill from the garden. You can call in for refreshing choice of teas, cakes, finger sandwiches, scones or wholesome boiled egg with soldiers when walking or cycling along the North Dorset Trailway just behind it.”
There’s something special about taking tea in a country house hotel and Summer Lodge has all the boxes ticked when it comes to luxe vibes and location. This Grade II listed 5-star hotel sits in glorious Thomas Hardy countryside near Dorchester and serves its sumptuous cream tea wherever Sir or Madam cares to take it: in the conservatory, whiskey lounge or drawing room, or if the weather’s fine in the beautiful gardens.