Hello, darlings!
​
Well, I say! what a wonderful start to the festive season, as Miss Windsor hosted a glittering “soiree” at the one and only – The Ritz London, Piccadilly! Where I dined and caroused my delightful compeers with the Christmas themed afternoon tea – famously known as “Tea at the Ritz”.

Darlings, before I tell you all about my festive afternoon tea experience, which includes an unfortunate misadventure of being incarcerated inside a beautifully decorated toilet cubical! I wish to fortify your mind with some fascinating and historical facts about The Ritz London.

The Ritz London, created by the Swiss hotelier – Cesar Ritz, swung open its doors on the 24th May 1906. This stupendous Grade II listed building was built in the Franco-American style, and oozes the traditional architecture of Paris – Ooh, la, la!

​It’s luxurious and “ritzy” interior was designed in the Louis XVI style, and no doubt satisfied the extravagant taste of London’s high society and beyond, thus being hailed as one of the world’s most magnificent and best-known hotels.

This world-renown hotel was a favourite haunt for patrons such as The Prince of Wales (future King Edward VII) who once quoted, “Where Ritz goes, I go!”. Also, Hollywood star Charlie Chaplin, Winston Churchill, English playwright Sir Noel Coward (who wrote Children of The Ritz – at The Ritz London!), Jackie Onassis, Sir Roger Moore, HM Queen Elizabeth II – Oh, and her royal counterpart – Miss Windsor!
​
Now darlings, due to my party arriving a touch early, I headed straight for The Rivoli Bar (cocktail lounge) for a pre-afternoon tea drinkie, where I thoroughly enjoyed a cocktail – the decadent – 1906. Indeed, this served as the perfect foundation for Miss Windsor’s champagne lavished afternoon tea.

Moving onto the Palm Court – an extremely grand room luxuriously decorated in the Louis XVI style. Mirrored panels, gold gilding and a dash of blush pink bedeck the walls and ceiling. Marble columns welcome you to be seated, and at this time of year, they’re dazzling with red and gold decorations, plus the added curiosity of garlands made from Royal Worcester bone china cups and saucers!

Now feeling rather peckish and a smitch thirsty, I ordered the afternoon tea goodies including a pot of The Ritz Christmas Spice Tea. Oh, plus a couple of flutes of Reserve Ritz Champagne Barons De Rothschild – only the best will do for Miss Windsor!

​The champagne arrived promptly, soon followed by the tea, along with the expected paraphernalia which one presumes was made of REAL silver! Darlings, what a frightfully traumatic experience it would’ve turned out to be if Miss Windsor once again faced her “aversion” to stainless steel!

I was thrilled when our afternoon tea pageantry arrived – tiers of sandwiches and cakes presented on a silver stand graced the Royal Worchester plates. The scones, strawberry jam and clotted cream appeared soon after. And I must admit my favourite finger sandwich was the ham with grain mustard mayonnaise on sliced brioche – heaven on earth.

Then between alternate sips of tea and champagne, whilst listening to the harmonious choir serenade us with Christmas classics, I managed to devour two freshly baked, dove-feather soft scones – one of which was a rather fruity sort! Both slathered with a thick, velvety layer of Rodda’s Cornish clotted cream, followed by a generous dollop of Tiptree strawberry jam.

However, Miss Windsor was bitterly disappointed with her slice of Christmas Cake. It was dry, crumbly and tasted a tad gingery, yet it lacked the warm and festive flavour of mixed spice; and thank goodness there were no plastic-like glace cherries in sight! Instead, one expected to nibble on succulent pieces of sultanas, raisins and currants, but sadly these seldom made an appearance in this festive classic.

Darlings, now feeling stuffed like a turkey, I galloped along to the entrance of the ladies powder room (translation: restroom) and clung onto the brass railings as I hurried down the red-carpeted stairs.

​One found oneself in a glamorous seating area tastefully decorated with baby doll pink wooden panelled walls, plus the added charm of pink marble-topped tables and basins. Also, a “Thulian” pink, silk-covered sofa sat perfectly perched in front of a hand-painted mural of a water-themed Grecian paradise.

So, I quickly flew into the nearest cubical and powdered one’s nose – of course! Once perfectly powdered I tried to open the door, but to my surprise, it wouldn’t open. On closer inspection, I realised a couple of screws were hanging from the door handle – Oh, dearie me!

Darlings, Miss Windsor is known to carry many things in her handbag, but not the likes of a screwdriver! Now, consumed with panic I wished to be liberated, therefore, I reached for my trusty mobile phone and attempted to call reception, but there was no signal – eek!

By this time, I had a vision of spending the night incarcerated in my very own “suite” at The Ritz London, albeit it was a beautifully decorated toilet cubical. Now eager to return to my party there was one more option left, so with a clenched fist I forcefully banged the door and shouted, “Hello, hello – anyone there?”. Eventually, after a few minutes of intense banging a fellow patron came to my rescue, and like a miracle, the door flung open – ​phew!

Indeed, I reported my unexpected sufferance to the reception, and was immediately showered with a profusion of apologies. Nevertheless, Miss Windsor had a wonderful time at The Ritz London, and shall certainly return soon to plough my way through the cocktail menu – starting with the Iron Lady!

Please click on the image below, for Miss Windsor’s spiffing article about Christmas Afternoon Tea at The Ritz, London!

​Cheerio for now,

Miss Windsor x

The post Christmas Afternoon Tea at The Ritz London! appeared first on Miss Windsor's Delectables.

Hello, darlings!

I’ve been utterly immersed with excitement since my last visit to the green rippling countryside of Somersetshire, “Ooh arr, Ooh arr!” I hear you bellow with sheer delight! Please note: Somersetshire is the archaic name for such a spiffing snippet of the West-Country, which is simply known in this day and age as Somerset.

So, darlings, please join Miss Windsor for a merry jaunt down memory lane, then a bimble into the present, whilst one reveals many humorous and riveting titbits about Taunton Deane’s very own, illustrious, dynamic duo – Mr & Mrs Hill. Who I recently joined for a scrumptious spot of afternoon tea in The Column Room at Hestercombe House, which is pleasantly plonked within the parish of West Monkton, and beautifully nestled on the Quantock Hills, near Taunton, Somerset.

Photo Credit – Hestercombe House & Gardens – CLICK HERE ​

​Now, I must tell you, whilst we chumbled away on freshly baked scones and fancy cakes (all handmade at Hestercombe) it was divulged to Miss Windsor that the dynamic duo has just recovered from a frightfully unusual case of “pew bum” – I say, how ghastly! but more about that later.  

Photo Credit – Hestercombe House & Gardens – CLICK HERE

And by the way, if you just so happen to be reading this from the comfort of your abode in the ward of Pyrland and Rowbarton, then you’ve probably known Mrs Hill for the past 24 years by her official title of “councillor”.

​Or, you may have had the pleasure of coming face to face with Mr Hill – a keen “castleologist” and member of The Sealed Knot Society (Mrs Hill’s also a member) during re-enactments of battles, skirmishes and sieges of the English Civil War.

Darlings, I first met Cllr Marcia Hill and her beloved Consort Mr Julian Hill at Somerset Day in Bishops Lydeard, which is a yearly event that celebrates Somerset as a place to live, work or play – hear, hear! I must say, it was a rather memorable occasion, as Cllr Hill, also a director of Apple FM, interviewed Miss Windsor for the Community Matters radio show. Oh, yes, and we got on “like a house on fire”, and so we’ve been cheerful chums ever since.  

Also, in 2015/2016, whilst out and about in Taunton, you may have bumped into Cllr Hill wearing her full regalia – sporting a bright red robe, a triangular hat, and a rather striking ruffled piece of finery known as a “jabot”.

I dare say, this type of attire sounds rather like fancy dress, but fear not, as Cllr Hill enunciated to Miss Windsor, “I persevered and persevered, and then the year I retired, bam, I was made the “Taunton Deane Mayor” – well, that clearly explains the elaborate clothing, and By Jove! what a far cry from Cllr Hill’s childhood dream of becoming a prima ballerina.

Now, before we proceed any further, it’s evident that Mr and Mrs Hill were destined to be together, as they were both born in Canon Street Maternity Hospital, Taunton – Aaaaah! Then years later, in 1966 to be exact, they first clapped eyes on each other at a New Year’s Eve bash. Apparently, Mr Hill was quite the gent, and so chaperoned his future wife on a midnight stroll to the fag machine – How romantic! 

Funnily enough, he then appeared the following day on his sweetheart’s doorstep – cheeky! And so, proclaimed to Miss Windsor with a slight tone of disappointment, “She promised to cut my hair like Steve Marriott from the Small Faces!” – which sadly never materialised! Nevertheless, they married in 1969 and have been gazing into each other’s eyes with oodles of adoration ever since.

​Interestingly, during their early years of marriage, the happy couple worked for the Jarman’s – Mr Hill worked as a mechanic for Neil Jarman at Edwards Motors, and Mrs Hill worked for Anne Jarman at Motherhood (maternity wear) – a family affair, indeed! 

​And it was also disclosed to Miss Windsor that during the retro years of 1970s, Mrs Hill was a Pyrex Lady – curtsey please – a purveyor of fine kitchen glassware. Apparently, one possessed a complete set of “checker’s” and “rose” design compact casserole dishes, plus many other bits and bobs’ like mixing bowls and a rolling pin – How fabulously vintage! 

Now, I’m proud to declare that Mr & Mrs Hill are the sweetest couple I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting from Somerset, and you may have noticed they do indeed wear many hats, albeit the triangular sort!

​In fact, for the past 8 years or so Mrs Hill has been a trustee of Hestercombe Gardens Trust (and house) and very much supports the vision of Philip White MBE (founder and chief executive) whom in 1995 with sheer grit and determination; and with a little help from re-mortgaging his house, set about restoring the landscape to its former glory – didn’t he do well!

Darlings, you’ll be pleased to know that Hestercombe House is a rather stupendous erection (Oh, I say!), which was originally built in the 16th century for the Warre family. In fact, the Hestercombe Estate dates all the way back to the 11th century when it was owned by Glastonbury Abbey.

Also, you’ll be chuffed to discover as a contribution towards the war effort, Hestercombe Estate was utilised during the Second World War as headquarters for the British 8th Corps until January 12th 1943. Then it became the residence of choice as the HQ of the United States 19th District supply services.

Photo credit – Hestercombe House & Gardens – CLICK HERE ​

I proudly declare that the quintessential treat of afternoon tea in The Column Room was the ultimate finishing touch to my guided tour of the historical gardens. You see, I was feeling exceedingly peckish, and my tootsies were in dire need of a well-deserved rest from toddling around three centuries of garden design – Victorian, Georgian, and Edwardian.

In fact, the latter was designed by the highly acclaimed English architect – Sir Edwin Lutyens, and planted by world-renowned, British horticulturist; garden designer, and writer – Gertrude Jekyll. My word! what a fabulous fusion of green-fingered greatness and creative construction.

Now I must admit, my nasal passage also required a brief spell of relaxation, “What on earth for, Miss Windsor?” I hear you shriek with immense concern!

​Well, I recall feeling rather mesmerised by the sensual stream of Mrs Hill’s favourite fragrance of Youth Dew (by Estee Lauder) which swirled through the summertide breeze accompanied by the sweet scent of white roses – it was quite the “potpourri”! Thus, as one can imagine, also a slight irritation to one’s sensitive snout!

Photo Credit – Bath Museum – CLICK HERE 

I say I’m sure you’ll be thrilled to know that Youth Dew has been Mrs Hill’s scent of choice since 1968, and of course, darling Mr Hill has been buying it for her ever since. Apparently, during the swinging 60’s and beyond, this fancy perfume was quite the rage in Taunton and was only available to purchase once per year from Colmers or Debenhams.

In comparison to the waft of Youth Dew, Mr Hill intoned to Miss Windsor, “I prefer leather, sweat, and gunpowder!” – How pleasant! 

Photo credit – Historical Houses – CLICK HERE

Moving swiftly on, as I merrily flick through the highlights of my first official engagement with Mr and Mrs Hill, I recall nibbling on a delicious chicken sarnie and supping on Special Earl Grey Tea, as I gazed through the rickety sash window enwreathed by a rambling plant of some sort, whilst I absorbed my first celestial taste of “paradise restored”. Well, the Formal Gardens of the Victorian Terrace and Great Plat, to be exact! where work began in 1998 to resurrect such splendour back to its original beauty. 

Photo Credit – County Gazette – CLICK HERE 

​Now, I bet you’re gagging to find out about their unfortunate sufferance of pew bum! Well, during Cllr Hill’s appointment as Taunton Deane Mayor they were invited to many church events where for hours on end, one perched their derrière upon a hard-wooden surface, namely a pew.

​Which of course, caused great and long-lasting discomfort, but thankfully by the end of one’s year in office there was no pews insight when they attended the garden party at Buckingham Palace, London, along with their beautiful daughters – and so their road to recovery commenced. 

Darlings, and whilst having a jolly ol’ chinwag with Mr and Mrs Hill during afternoon tea, I discovered many things, and I was enthralled to hear all about Mrs Hill’s culinary memories of yesteryear.

I recall that Mrs Hill excitedly uttered to Miss Windsor “I was brought up in a house with fifteen family members, and I have wonderful memories of my gran’s cooking – roast dinners, soups, suet puddings, rice pudding, and apple dumplings.” 

​Then with an air of nostalgia, Mrs Hill recalled: “Every Saturday morning my aunty Sylvia would buy “sprats” and fresh vegetables from the local market, and she’d also bring home a copy of the County Gazette.” 

Photo Credit – Francis Frith – CLICK HERE​

Now, before I pop off for a ladylike, half-pint of Mrs Hill’s favourite Somerset cider by Sheppy’s, followed by a stonker of a pork sausage (Oh, I say!) which Mr Hill is also rather partial to, and affectionately declared to Miss Windsor “You can’t beat a West-Country local pork sausage, it’s just got to be on a breakfast plate.”

I wish to indulge your good selves with Mr Hill’s Somersetshire dulcet tones – Ooh aar, Ooh arr! whilst he joyfully recites a well-known phrase, “Somerset born, Somerset bred, strong in the arm, and thick in the head!” – and there you have it.

I say, on that note, it’s a goodbye from me and a huge farewell and see you again soon, from Taunton Deane’s very own treasures of the community – Mr and Mrs Hill.

Oh, and before I forget, if you’re a fan of the outdoors, fancy a light-bite or afternoon tea, then please pop along to HESTERCOMBE HOUSE & GARDENS which is open all year round except for Christmas Day.

​Toodles! 

Miss Windsor x

Please note Cllr Marcia Hill’s other involvements:

Trustee of SBP T (Somerset Buildings and Preservation Trust) and Co-ordinator/Facilitator of Yarnbombing for Taunton Live (Go-Create).

The post Afternoon Tea with Cllr Marcia Hill at Hestercombe House & Gardens! appeared first on Miss Windsor's Delectables.

Hello, darlings!

First off, apologies for the slight delay in publishing my frightfully spiffing experience about Somerset Day, Bishops Lydeard, Taunton, which took place at the village hall on Saturday 12th May.

“But what the heck is Somerset Day?” I hear you splutter! Well, it’s a DAY that celebrates Somerset as a place to live, work or play. In fact, you’ll be pleased to know that this wonderful event raised money for St Margaret’s Somerset Hospice and Greenway Community Hall – round of applause, please!  

But before we proceed, here’s a little tip: the title of the village is pronounced Bishops “Lid-e-ard” not “Lid-eeerd” – “Oooh aar! oooh aar!” as Farmer Giles is known to trumpet – ta very muchly!

So, during my brief but a most enlightening trip to the land of my heart – dear old Somerset – I stayed at the ye-olde Lethbridge Arms, which is nestled within Bishops Lid-e-ard’s magnificent bosom (Oh, I say!). A truly charming village which is located near the Quantock Hills, and peppered with quaint chocolate-box cottages and rows of terrace abodes – oh, and one mustn’t forget the odd tree, plus a rather impressive church, St. Mary the Virgin. 

You see, Miss Windsor who is a born and bred West-Country lass was invited as a special guest by a darling lady and keen “Yarnbomer” (more about that later) who organised this incredible event that unites the community through charity, craft, creativity and cake – plus a chinwag over a cup of Miles tea! I say this “village treasure” is indeed a pillar of her local community, and on Twitter bestowed herself the suitable title of Kathy Somerset – fancy that! 

As part of the gaiety, I relished the opportunity, and so introduced myself to many of the participants: Val Stones – creator of “edible delectables” and star of 2016 Great British Bake-Off, the gorgeous Angie Langley – author of Jennifer Brown’s Journey and gifted wildlife photographer. 

I also met the delightfully endearing former Mayor of Taunton and director of Apple FM Radio – Cllr Marcia Hill, who interviewed Miss Windsor for the Community Matters show (aired Tuesday 29th May). Oh, and I must divulge that Marcia absolutely adores the colour purple, as one can tell from her dazzling eyes! 

Cllr Marcia Hill​

Darlings, you may still be wondering why it took Miss Windsor so long to publish this piece…….well, along with the usual busy life events, I fear that one may have suffered from a common ailment of “memory lapse”!

Therefore, I must admit, on Bank Holiday Monday (just gone) I decided to take a sunlit jaunt to the supermarket, by foot, may I add, and as I proceeded along my merry way, I found myself drawn to my neighbour’s garden. My goodness, the alluring aroma of rose spun me into a frenzy, and so took a sniff or two of their bountiful bush.  

After two or three deep inhalations it suddenly dawned on me that approximately two weeks before I was in Somerset taking a leisurely walk through Bishops Lid-e-ard! And there I was, admiring the vibrantly coloured bunting and floral decorations that I easily mistook for the real thing – you know, an English rose, a poppy, or even a daisy! In fact, such exquisite designs were hand-knitted by the extremely talented local Yarnbomb group – star member Kathy Somerset.

​You see, I was caught up in a bit of a “Hansel and Gretel” moment, without the pebbles or bread of course; as I joyfully followed the knitted flowers and bunting that adorned the cottage gardens and main street. I say, with their aid I was ushered all the way to Daisy’s Tearooms for a spot of afternoon tea (How thrilling!).  

Darlings, during my visit to Daisy’s, I devoured a homemade scone or two and indulged in a good old proper brew – served in an English bone china cup n’ saucer, of course! I say it was such a pleasurable experience, as I became well acquainted with the marvellous Melinda – proprietor and first-class baker. 

And I also met patisserie extraordinaire – the lovely Lorraine – who made my day with a luxurious cupcake bouquet – what more could a girl want!

Now, let’s return our focus to Bishops Lid-e-ard’s village hall. It was crammed to the rafters with all sorts of stalls – Caroline Pearse of Exmoor Fudge Kitchen kindly offered me a sample of her melt-in-the-mouth Blackcurrant & Vanilla Fudge – the experience was like “angels dancing on my tongue”! 

I also stumbled across Slip Stitch – handmade by Cilla! A delightful soul who cared to show me her miscellaneous “knits” and tea cosie creations – just perfect for my Brown Betty teapots. Oh, and what about Susie Watts of So Very Vintage – the queen of shabby chic and vintage handmade gifts – who has a talent for decorating Marmite and Bovril jars!

Now darlings, it’s customary for most village hall events to be accompanied by a traditional tearoom, that usually serves weak and unpalatable tea in those faded green crockery vessels – you know “Beryl by Wood’s Ware” – the type one would find in their grannie’s pantry (Oh I say!).

Thank goodness for Miles Tea & Coffee of Porlock who supplied bags upon bags of West-Country Original Blend Tea – to be quaffed from their very own paper cups.

Also, the very generous Val Stones provided a delicious pageantry of edible delectables – scones, tea cake (made with Miles Earl Grey Tea) and apple cake (made with Thatchers Gold Cider).

Darlings, I’m sure you’re aware that a village hall event is definitely missing that spark without the excitement of a raffle! Well, this raffle was a raffle of all raffles – if you know what I mean? The table was bursting with prizes – alcoholic beverages, handmade goods, even Miles Tea & Coffee donated a basket of goodies, plus a cupcake bouquet from Lorraine’s Bakehouse, and a signed cookery book from TV chef, Phil Vickery. I say you’ll be pleased to know that the raffle raised a grand total of £328 (How spiffing!).

Miss Windsor must retire now to her soft and velvety chaise lounge, accompanied by a large tumbler of Thatchers Gold Cider – Oooh aar, Oooh aar! But before I pop off, I would like to congratulate Kathy Somerset for her unfettered efforts and dedication to “everything Somerset” – I hereby shower Kathy with a profusion of accolades.

Also, let’s raise a glass of cider to all those who helped and participated in another successful Somerset Day at Bishop Lid-e-ard – roll on year five! 

Please tune into my delightful interview with Cllr Marcia Hill – Apple FM Radio. 

Darlings, OUT SOON – my interview with Val Stones – star of 2016 Great British Bake-Off!

Cheerio for now,

Miss Windsor x

The post My Review of Somerset Day at Bishops Lydeard! appeared first on Miss Windsor's Delectables.

Hello, darlings,
​
I must say, following my scone munching, tea tasting visit to Mr Miles Tearooms, 3-4 High Street, Taunton, Somerset, I decided to join the gaiety and share my experience on British National Tea Day – so here it is!
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​You see, many moons ago I stumbled across this rather enchanting, traditional, tea and coffee parlour which oozes the timeless flavour of a bygone era. Best described as a honey-pot for “ladies who lunch”, an afternoon tea spot for tourists, cream tea for the locals, or for the poor commoner it’s the place to enjoy a cup of Miles Smugglers Gold Tea – indeed, a menu to suit ALL patrons!

This adorable establishment is the “brainchild” of Mr Colin Barrell, who for seventeen years previously ran a McDonald’s franchise – I say, a stark contrast to tea and scones! And strangely enough, one day whilst enjoying a brew in Betty’s of Harrogate enthused to his wife, “This would work well in Taunton” – and there you have it, the idea was born!  ​

Also, Mr Barrell, who beautifully mirrored my well-received and ever so slight hint of a West-Country accent, when quizzed about his experience running a tearoom in comparison to McDonald’s, with a cracked smile he remarked, “I feel a bit like a swan, nice and relaxed above water; but paddling like hell below!”

Darlings, you’re probably gagging to know how on earth did Mr Barrell’s idea achieve fruition? You see, once upon a time Mr Colin Barrell attended an event and became quite friendly with the tea lady (Oh, I say!), and by a sheer stroke of serendipity, she was serving Miles tea – Mr Barrell’s favourite. Following this moment of clarity, he excitedly impressed upon the lady his idea to open a tearoom in Taunton, who then urged Mr Barrell to contact the managing director – and so he did!

Miles Tea of Porlock, Somerset, are merchants of the finest tea and coffee from the West-Country. Established in 1888 and was previously known as Henry Miles & Co, then in 1971, Mr D J Miles purchased the business from his grandfather, whom since then, and now at the ripe and ravishing age of 86 years old is still tea tasting and buying three days per week (How spiffing!).

I say the wonderful thing is, when Mr Barrell put forward his tearoom idea to the board of Miles tea, he was told with much enthusiasm, “We have been toying with the idea for years, and we need a shop window to sell our tea!” Of course, Mr Barrell was the right man for the job, thus entered into a partnership with this highly acclaimed brand and opened up his dream tearoom in Taunton.

Darlings, you’ll be pleased to know that Mr Barrell has been drinking one of his favourite beverages of Miles West-Country Original Blend Tea since he was a “nipper”, which was due to a generous perk of his Mother’s employ at the local deli in Minehead, Somerset. He proclaimed to Miss Windsor, “I’ve been drinking it since I was a boy, you can’t replace the taste with anything else!”

Moving on swiftly, Mr Miles Tearooms resides in the old Laura Ashley building and received a complete make-over before it reopened its doors to hospitality on the 24th February 2010.

I say, the tasteful décor certainly surpassed Miss Windsor’s high standards – “hats off” to Julianne – interior designer and good friend of the Barrell’s, who obviously has a sharp eye for detail and exceptional use of colour.

Dressed head to toe in Oval Room Blue by Farrow & Ball, and Duck Egg by Laura Ashley. Such warm and relaxing colours beautifully complement the seating area – adorned with wicker tables and chairs by Lloyd Loom of Spalding – stained a pleasant shade of green!

I dare say, the last time I experienced Lloyd Loom was when I perched my derriere on my grandmother Josie’s vintage, gold and floral chair, which was part of a unique bedroom set sporting a matching ottoman – what a wonderful memory of Grandmother Josie’s most flash abode!

Remarkably, similar to my grandmother’s pantry, which was always bursting at the seams with tins, packets, and jars – mostly out of date may I add! I note that the lower floor of the tearooms, including the window displays was packed to the rafters with the very best of West-Country fayre – Miles finest tea, coffee, drinking chocolate, chocolate by the bar, Brendon Hill Crafts jams, and The Bee Keeping Ladies Somerset Honey.  ​

I also spied a vibrant assemblage of tea cosies, Dunoon mugs, plus Emma Bridgewater ceramics and Royal Worcester bone china – I say, a fine mix of classic style and modern design. In fact, Mr Barrell is the local agent for the latter – makers of luxury crockery and tea paraphernalia.

Darlings, before I pop off I wish to “tickle your fancy” (Oh, I say!) with details of my frightfully fabulous cream tea experience. Of course, my tea of choice was Miles West-Country Original Blend – seasoned with a dash of milk that gleamed a resplendent tone of tawny and bronze.

An exquisite fusion of fourteen Assam and African teas – made with a pure dose of West-Country LOVE! Just one sip of this magic potion and my taste buds roared with sheer delight, as they were greeted by a mellow, malty, and vibrant flavour – indeed, a splash of heaven in a teacup!

Following my exhilarating moment, I promptly sunk my gnashers into a devilishly seduction scone, which are baked in-house every day by Mrs Kate Jenkins. The scones were temptingly mouth-watering, dove feather soft that flaunted rippled textured layers of perfectly baked dough.

Bedecked with succulent raisins and sultanas, and enhanced by a familiar, yet comforting aftertaste of “shortbread”. I must say, although I found the aftertaste quite extraordinary, I soon fathomed that it must be due to the rich and creamy ingredient of West-Country butter.

Of course, I slathered each scone with a velvety coat of clotted cream – lovingly sourced from Longman’s Dairy, and topped with a sexy, deep scarlet, glossy layer of Brendon Hill Crafts strawberry jam, bestrewn with large chunks of fruit – a match made in heaven!

Miss Windsor x

The post Review of Mr Miles Tearooms – Taunton, Somerset! appeared first on Miss Windsor's Delectables.

On a delightfully bright summers day, Miss Windsor and her companions couldn’t wait to descend upon The Orchard Tea Garden for a jolly good munch on their pageantry of sweet treats.
​
Riddled with excitement and salivating at the very thought of freshly baked scones, jam, and cream, we bundled into our chariot and proceeded to The Orchard Tea Garden, Grantchester Village, Cambridge.

The Orchard began its life in 1868, and by a sheer stroke of serendipity, it had morphed into a glorious outdoor tearoom by 1897. Of course, one must pay homage to the Cambridge students who asked Mrs Stevenson of Orchard House to serve their tea and cakes within the tranquillity of the fruit orchard. Since then this organic, yet harmonious form of “dining” has been enjoyed by many for years thereafter.

Since it’s humble beginnings The Orchard Tea Garden has laid comfortably embosomed within the idyllic surroundings of the postcard-worthy village of Grantchester. 

A short trundle from Cambridge along the Grantchester Grind, and you’ll discover a most relaxing retreat. Frequented by an impressive clientele, including a number of frightfully intelligent Cambridge students, tourists, the locals, and other luminaries such as Prince Charles, John Cleese, Stephen Fry, and in bygone days Rupert Brooke and Virginia Wolf.

As our chariot approached the tea rooms, I enjoyed the features of the charming, yet quintessentially English scenery, awash with slate grey stone walls that had been fashioned from oddly shaped chunks of stone. I noted that they fited together perfectly, similar to a rather tricky 1000 piece jigsaw puzzle!

Darlings, such a magnificent erection (Oh, I say!), of course, I mean the slate grey stone walls, stood with ease beside the quiet, yet busy thoroughfare, covered by a thick, tightly gripped cascade of deep emerald coloured Ivy.

When we arrived at the establishment, we all stood captivated by the tall, good-natured, flourishing trees that offered shelter to what the former owner, Mr Robin Callan referred to it as, God’s little acre (How quaint!).

As quick as a flash, I found myself in the servery surrounded by an abundance of baked goodies – Angel Cake, Victoria Sandwich, Carrot Cake, gluten-free Chocolate Cake, and the list goes on…….
​
Also, one quickly spied a mound of freshly baked, homemade, plain and fruit scones. However, according to the rather dashing Patrice, the “gerant de restaurant” (restaurant manager), legend has it that The Orchard Tea Garden still follow Mrs Stevenson’s age-old recipe for scones.

In readiness for our cream teas, including a not so naughty, but very nice slice of gluten-free Chocolate Cake, we set up camp beneath the sprawling branches of the apple trees. This is where I relished the opportunity to relax within Its peace and holy quiet, as beautifully expressed by the illustrious Mr Robin Callan – but sadly, darlings, that didn’t last for long!

As I sank deep into the soft embrace of my bottle green deck chair, I immediately felt an ever so slight tickle. It turned out that a cheeky fly had dive-bombed straight into my bosom (Oh, I say!). Of course, Miss Windsor was aghast! and instantly moved her party to be coddled within the safe confines of the indoor restaurant.

Now sat looking across the orchard, we merrily absorbed the ambience of by-gone days, which had been captured by the rather beauteous bucolic setting.

Feeling extremely ravenous, the cream teas arrived with haste. Warm, crumbly scones, festooned with fruit that yearned to be smothered by a generous helping of Rodda’s Cornish clotted cream, followed by a resplendent, scarlet coloured splotch of Tiptree strawberry jam.

I do hope you enjoyed my review of my cream tea experience at The Orchard Tea Garden.

I say darlings, one shall certainly return soon to further explore the grounds and to sample the delightful highlights of afternoon tea.

But before we say our goodbyes, here are a few wise-words from Patrice, the gerant de restaurant (Ooh la, la!), Miss Windsor asked: “How would you describe the ambience?” Patrice quipped, “Very English for a foreigner!” and there you have it.
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Until next time,

Miss Windsor x

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​Of course, careful not to lose one’s footing due to an inappropriate choice of footwear – namely kitten heels, I came to an abrupt halt. And there I stood enwreathed by the clear blue sky above and captivated by the golden, sizzling hot sun rays that gently shimmered across the River Cam.

​Having arrived in one piece (thank goodness!) at Harriet’s Café Tearooms which was established in 1999 by Harriet, and guaranteed to be A Truly English Experience, Miss Windsor and her assemblage were greeted by what appeared to be a blast from the past!

There stood before us was a beauteous figure of a lady, dressed in traditional black and white attire who kindly showed us to our table.

Darlings, it appeared that we had rolled back in time, to those days of starched white pinnies that were famously sported by the Nippies (waitresses) of London’s most renowned J.Lyons & Co. tea shops and cafes.

In fact, our English culinary marvel, Nigella Lawson, is a direct descendant of the Salmon family who co-founded J.Lyons & Co. during the 1800s – Well, what do ya know!

In 1932 Harriet’s beloved grandmother Mary celebrated her 12th birthday at the Lyons’ Corner House on Oxford Street/Tottenham Court Road. Apparently, she envisaged working there herself one day – as a Nippie one presumes?

Well, isn’t life just full of surprises! 67 years later and Harriet opens up her very own tea room – What a wonderful way to pay homage to Grandmother Mary!

As quick as a flash, one of Harriet’s very own Nippies furnished us with the menu, and with haste, I ordered the traditional afternoon tea pageantry – to be served with a piping hot teapot of Harriet’s Anniversary Blend Tea.

In fact, a good few years ago, and with a desire to satisfy some of their clientele’s richer palates (including Miss Windsor’s!), stronger flavoursome teas from Assam, Kenya, and Rwanda were fused together by a local tea merchant, Primo Coffee, thus creating this bespoke blend of tea.

Whilst waiting for the afternoon tea goodies to arrive I explored my surroundings, and I immediately spied a baby grand piano, but unfortunately, we had just missed the pianist’s last performance. Nevertheless, such a magnificent, yet elegant instrument glistened brightly beneath the spotlights; similar to the hard lacquered shell of a ginormous black beetle!

One’s beady eye then caught sight of a wonderful display of Harriet’s merchandise – gift sets, shopping bags, tea caddies, and so on. I say such exquisite products would make an ideal gift for that lucky recipient, or as a souvenir for your good self.

My afternoon tea medley arrived very promptly. Tiers of sandwiches, scones, and sponge cakes (cakes made locally by Tiptree). Of course, I couldn’t wait to split open one of the freshly baked scones, which are baked in-house every morning.

The thick, velvety, Cornish clotted cream spread oh so easily onto the fruity and surprisingly bouncy texture of the scones. Followed by a couple of generous dollops of strawberry jam, bestrewn with large pieces of fruit.

Now moving onto something one describes as short, dark, and handsome – the rather ravishing Chocolate Sponge! Delightfully sexy, with a squidgy melt-in-the-mouth texture that entered one’s cake-hole with ease (Oh, I say!).
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Miss Windsor’s truly chocolatey, yet self-indulgent brief affair with Mr Ravishing turned out to be the ultimate ending to her afternoon tea experience at Harriet’s Tearooms.

Darlings, if you thoroughly enjoyed my review, one presumes you fancy a jolly good brew? or maybe a sweet treat or two?, then  Harriet’s Café Tearooms is just the place for you.

If you’re lucky enough to bag yourself a table at Harriet’s, then Miss Windsor highly recommends a munch on Mr Ravishing (naughty!), a scone or two, plus a quaff of Harriet’s Anniversary Blend Tea.​

Cheerio for now,

Miss Windsor x

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