Galgorm celebrates birthday with Mad Hatter’s Tea Party

With an invitation to this ‘Very Important Date’, myself and colleague Elinor Glynn enjoyed afternoon tea at the Conservatory with a menu fit for the Queen (of Hearts)!

On arrival, we were treated to a glass of Elderflower and Raspberry punch while we perused the tea menu featuring specially selected blends in keeping with the Mad Hatter’s theme.

I opted for the ‘Chef Chaoun’, an organic green tea infused with mint leaves, while Elinor chose ‘Nicy Nancy’, an organic lemon verbena tea.

With a special menu for the occasion, we were served a selection of mini savouries including ‘caterpillar’ soup, chess board sandwiches, and ‘Eat Me’ mushroom tart.

Despite the name, the soup was a thick, creamy vegetable soup, while the mushroom tart melted in the mouth.

The sandwich selection included egg mayonnaise, ham and cheese, beef and horseradish, and cheese and pepper, by which point I was wondering where I would put the next round of delights.

Continuing the Alice in Wonderland theme, ‘All in the Golden Afternoon’ saw us served freshly baked Rosewater, and Poppy Seed and Orange scones served with preserves, butter and freshly whipped cream.

I opted for the poppy seed which was light and fluffy, with just a hint of orange which blended perfectly with the cream and jam.

Following on from this was a multitude of miniature sweet treats including ‘Curious Alice’ Pineapple Macaroon, ‘The Mad Hatter’ Strawberry top hat, ‘The White Rabbit’ carrot cake, ‘The Pocketwatch’ hazlenut shortbread, ‘The Queen of Hearts’ strawberry and raspberry tart, and ‘The Cheshire Cat’ blueberry and vanilla mousse.

The hazlenut shortbread was incredibly moreish, while the strawberry top hat was a wonderful green-coloured marshmallow delight that bursted with strawberry flavour.

Myself and Elinor settled on the blueberry and vanilla mousse as our final bite, and what a final morsel to have - creamy and light it was a perfect end to a perfect menu.

In a short time, the Conservatory at Galgorm has become synonymous with afternoon tea combining perfect relaxation, stunning views, and delectable treats - here’s to many more birthdays to come.

Afternoon Tea is served daily in the River Room Conservatory at Galgorm Resort and Spa. To book, phone 028 2588 1001.