Do you like tea? Do you like cake? If the answer to both these questions is “yes!”, I have news of a novel and decadent treat for you- the No Ordinary Noveltea afternoon tea at Lumley Castle in Chester-Le-Street, County Durham.

Last week I was invited along to the launch of the newest addition to the Lumley Castle offering- Noveltea. This unique afternoon tea, developed and created by Newcastle startup Tea Venture Ltd, comes in two blends:

  • The Tale of Earl Grey

…is a proudly British blend of Earl Grey tea and British gin. It has a smooth, distinctive flavour. If you enjoy a cup of Earl Grey, you’ll love this rich and delicious drink. I enjoyed it served cold with ice cubes and a wedge of orange.

  • The Tale of Tangiers

…is a unique blend of Moroccan green mint tea with spiced rum. It was presented cold, with ice and sprigs of fresh mint. The exotic fruit and floral citrus flavours create a refreshing sweetness that is indisputably enjoyable.

The teas can be enjoyed hot or cold and more exciting flavours are in the pipeline. The dynamic new business is keen to expand their range and to bring “people together by drawing cultural bridges around the concept of tea and spirits.” Check out their website, where they share fascinating tales of the legacy and culture of tea.

 

We first met German-born Geordie-by-choice founders Lukas and Vincent at the BIPC clinic where Richard, our Broking Director, volunteers as the Insurance Expert in Residence and we were excited by their plan. It’s been so exciting to see their business grow!

Lumley Castle

This was my first visit to the majestic Lumley Castle, and I’m keen to return for more of  a look around. The peaceful and tranquil courtyards, overhung with gargoyles and dappled with sunlight and gently swaying trees would be perfect for a summer reception. The banqueting halls are traditional and exquisite and oozing with history and we enjoyed our tea in a bright, light, high-ceilinged room that felt luxurious and elegant. It’s definitely worth considering for a stand-out event, and prices are a lot more manageable than most people think.

Afternoon tea

The sandwiches were full of flavour, using high-quality ingredients, the macaroons had a perfect balance of crunch and chew, the fruit fool was creamy and decadent and the savoury cornetto was quirky and fun. It was, without a doubt, the best afternoon tea I’ve had. The addition of the Noveltea made the experience extra-special. It felt more traditional than the emerging trend of prosecco afternoon tea, but more adventurous than the standard tea option.

Get it for yourself!

If this sounds good, you can book online right now via the Lumley Castle website. Noveltea is expanding rapidly, with new stockists added to the list at an impressive rate. You can find an up-to-date list here or pop in to Fenwicks to pick up a bottle (or two-hic!)

 

If you’re interested in more outstanding independent enterprises in the NE of England check out our popular blogs about Whitley Bay and Corbridge.

Talbot Jones Risk Solutions is a family-run community-focused commercial insurance brokerage. Based in Gateshead, we work nationwide, specialising in working with start-ups, not-for-profits and professions. Get in touch if you’d value risk management advice, a free insurance review or a quotation.

 

Photographs used with kind permission of Lumley Castle and Tea Venture Ltd.