Monday, July 22, 2024
Reading Time: 3 minutesLangdale Chase celebrates the 50th anniversary of Swallows and Amazons with a themed afternoon tea, offering a magical experience inspired by the beloved story.
Langdale Chase is excited to introduce its Swallows and Amazons-themed Afternoon Tea in honor of the 50th anniversary of this iconic tale’s debut on screen. Back in 1974, the hotel had the privilege of hosting the cast and crew of Arthur Ransome’s cherished novel during its filming. This celebration is the perfect opportunity to revisit the enchanting story that has drawn countless visitors to The Lakes over the years. The afternoon tea will be served on bespoke, hand-painted crockery crafted by local artisans and can be enjoyed in the scenic dining room, numerous lounges, or on the lakeside terrace, weather permitting.
This summer, guests can indulge in a captivating afternoon tea that brings the magical world of Swallows and Amazons to life. The Swallows and Amazons-themed tea will be served in Langdale Chase’s exquisitely decorated dining room, available to both hotel guests and visitors, all set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Windermere. The ambiance is so enchanting that if you close your eyes and let your imagination take over, you might just feel like a member of the crew aboard The Swallow.
The Afternoon Tea menu is a delightful homage to the culinary adventures of the novel’s young heroes and its author. Among the sandwiches, guests will find Smoked Salmon with Beetroot and Cream Cheese, celebrating Ransome’s love for smoked fish, and Pemican Beef with Horseradish and Red Onion, a tribute to the corned beef frequently enjoyed by the story’s young characters.
Potted Shrimps with Crumpets and savory Cheddar Donuts offer a tantalizing experience for the taste buds, while the sweet treats pay homage to the whimsical tales. A Chocolate and Marmalade fancy evokes the chocolate éclairs at the Pirate’s Party and the beloved marmalade sandwiches of the children. Gooseberry Choux captures the essence of the berries picked during the children’s adventures, and Titty’s Bun Loaf is a must-try. The menu will be updated seasonally to ensure fresh flavors year-round.
In addition to the Afternoon Tea, The Terrace and the AA Rosette Dining Room are open daily for both hotel guests and visitors. The Terrace serves lunch every day, while the Dining Room offers a daily à-la-carte dinner and a traditional Sunday lunch.
Langdale Chase holds a proud connection to Arthur Ransome’s work. The hotel not only hosted Dame Virginia McKenna, the lead actress of the film adaptation, but also served as the venue for the cast and crew’s wrap party in 1974. This historical link adds an authentic charm to the themed afternoon tea, making it a must-visit for fans of the novel and classic British literature.
Arthur Ransome himself is believed to have been a frequent visitor to the hotel during his time in the Lake District. The lakeside views and formal gardens of Langdale Chase may well have inspired his beloved book.
In support of local businesses, the afternoon tea will be served on exquisite tableware crafted by local artisans. From hand-thrown pottery to finely crafted woodwork, every piece is designed by talented local makers, adding an extra touch of Cumbrian charm to the experience.
Supporting local businesses, the afternoon tea will be presented on exquisite tableware designed by local artisans. Each piece reflects the craftsmanship and artistic heritage of the region.
Fiona May Ceramics: The bowls and plates are crafted by Cumbrian potter Fiona May in a small kiln in her garage, where pottery dries alongside kayaks and mountain bikes. Her work draws inspiration from the surrounding fells and nearby lakes, with nods to Swallows and Amazons in the finely painted details.
Croglin: The delightful fancies will be served on stunning handcrafted and hand-illustrated wooden display boards, adding an extra touch of elegance to the presentation.
Miles Moore: Martin Miles-Moore, a skilled potter with over a decade of experience, contributes depth to the table settings. Inspired by the lakes, he incorporates discarded materials and minerals from Lakeland quarries into his clay, creating pieces with a unique finish and a strong connection to the local landscape.
Lauren Frost: Adding the finishing touches, Lauren Frost’s pottery brings the layers of the Lakeland landscape to life. Her beautiful pieces, featuring lines of earth, water, and sky, become like islands as they hold jam, cream, and other delicacies.
Langdale Chase reopened its doors in November 2023 following an extensive 12-month restoration, featuring interiors that transport guests back to the 1920s and 1930s, the heyday of the Lake District. This stunning 30-room Grade II listed property boasts seven spacious suites with cozy reading nooks overlooking the lake, five dog-friendly rooms, an AA Rosette restaurant, an art deco-style bar, a cinema room, and a wealth of outdoor activities.
Langdale Chase’s mission is simple: to offer superb hospitality in a setting that poet William Wordsworth described as “The loveliest place that man hath ever found.”