The Christmas celebrations are over, you've survived the new year break, which means we need something to look forward to. A classic afternoon tea is a treat indeed, so, in the name of all things dairy, all things fruity and to celebrate the vital eggs required to make the fluffiest cake, let’s highlight some of the best afternoon teas in Scotland and raise a glass (or a cup of tea) to the farmers whose products make it all taste so good.

For something fruity – Airds Hotel - Port Appin, Near Oban

Scotland is renowned for its soft fruit and the 2016 season is well under way. The luxurious Airds Hotel on the west coast of Scotland offers an indulgent Strawberries and Cream Afternoon Tea using the finest local berries. With stunning views over Loch Linnhe this is a delightful way to eat one of your five a day.

Afternoon Tea is served 2.00-4.30pm for £24 per person. Add an additional £8.50 for a glass of bubbles.

http://www.airds-hotel.com

For art and architecture - the Willow Tea Rooms - Glasgow

When taking tea your surroundings are as important as the food and drink itself, and no art and design has put Scotland more firmly on the map than that of Charles Rennie Mackintosh and his contemporaries. With branches on Sauchiehall Street in Watt Brothers department store and Buchanan Street the Willow Tea Rooms are in the heart of the city and celebrate the the flourishing Scottish art scene of the early 1900s, and the cakes are very good too!

Afternoon Tea is available all day at £12.95 per person.

www.willowtearooms.co.uk

For something majestic - the Palace of Holyroodhouse - Edinburgh

The Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Queen’s official residence in Scotland, not only allows guests to visit the State Apartments, the Abbey and Mary Queen of Scots’ Chamber but it’s also home to the charming Cafe at the Palace located within the Mews Courtyard. In summer enjoy a traditional afternoon tea but as winter approaches it’s time for mulled wine jam, cranberry scones and Christmas cake.

Afternoon Tea at the Palace is served daily between 1.00-4.00pm at £16.95 per person. Champagne Afternoon Tea is £25.00 per person.

www.royalcollection.org.uk

For the sporting fraternity - the Old Course Hotel - St Andrews

For those who seek activity to counterbalance indulgence then the Old Course combines golf, scenic views out to sea, blustery coastal walks and an award winning afternoon tea. The elegant pastries are created by the hotel’s in-house pastry chef and the pink champagne preserve adds a touch of fizz to the humble jam.

Afternoon Tea is served daily between 1.00-4.00pm at £25 per person, or £36 per person includes a glass of Laurent-Perrier Rosé Champagne.

https://www.oldcoursehotel.co.uk

For the young and young at heart - Mercure Aberdeen Ardoe House Hotel - Aberdeen

Ardoe House has introduced the deliciously simple idea of a Young Diner’s Afternoon Tea alongside its traditional adult offering. The child’s version includes ham or cheese sandwiches with a choice of soft drink. There’s a touch of fruit in the strawberry and mallow skewer and in the strawberry jelly and ice-cream. The treats include a chocolate crackle cake, a smartie cookie and a milkshake. The child’s version is just as elegantly presented as the adult one and makes for a real multi-generational family day out. Gluten free teas and chocolate teas are also available.

Afternoon Tea is available from 12.00-6.00pm. The Classic Afternoon Tea is £19 and it’s £12 for a Young Diner’s Afternoon Tea. Upgrade to a Champagne Afternoon Tea (adults only) for an additional £9.50.

www.ardoehouseblairs.co.uk

By Janice Hopper