Parkers Tavern: Festive Afternoon Tea
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We were delighted to be invited to visit Parkers Tavern (situated in the University Arms hotel) to enjoy a festive afternoon tea. It was a lovely way in which to spend a relaxed afternoon.
The Setting
Parkers Tavern re-opened in 2018 having had a major two year reinvention. It now stands proud on Parkers piece and is a geographical landmark in the city. It is perfectly situated close to many of the shops and not far from the station.
The Style
Parkers Tavern has a lovely relaxed and elegant style. We enjoyed our afternoon tea in the Library, with views over Downing Street and Parker Piece, whilst surrounded by a wonderful array of books to flick through. The setting is perfect for a relaxed and comfortable afternoon tea or catch up for a cocktail with friends.
The staff were very attentive, smart and helpful. The artwork on the wall is eye catching and fun, however the fun doesn’t stop there as the decor also extends to the bathrooms. The bespoke china is elegant and eye catching and a great topic of conversation.
The Food
We enjoyed the festive afternoon tea which was a really festive treat. We started with a wonderful array of tea choices, followed by:
Sandwiches
Duke of Cambridge Tart
Sausage Rolls
Crayfish Tart
Scones – both plan and fruit with cream and jam – that started the debate jam or cream first!
Snowmen Macarons
Ferrero Roche
Paris Brests
Ginger & Marmalade cakes
Custard Tart
It was a delicious feast, and we had so much food we couldn’t eat it all so we were kindly given lovely yellow goodie boxes to take them home with us!
What was extra special about this afternoon tea was you were sent home with a festive treat of a gingerbread man. So we left full of delicious food and foodie delights to share with our families.
Fun Fact
Parker’s Tavern opened for business in 1834. The city threw a party to celebrate the coronation of Queen Victoria. Fifteen thousand locals gathered for a public feast, eaten in the viewshed of the coaching inn on Parker’s Piece.