Last month I was invited to the newly refurbished Cromwell Hotel in Stevenage to sample their afternoon tea.

The Cromwell Hotel is situated in the heart of Stevenage Old Town and with great tranport links and plenty of parking spaces in the hotel car park it was easily accessible. As we arrived we were shown through to the beautifully decorated Bourchier suite – and were seated at a table overlooking the high street.

We were served quickly and each given an individual pot of tea to enjoy. It wasn’t long before the main event arrived and the food looked delicious.

Our tea began with an array of sandwiches including the afternoon tea favourite cucumber. Other flavours included Salmon, Egg and Ham and Mustard.

The afternoon tea finished with a selection of mini cakes; a profiterole, fruit tart and a fruit slice. The fruit tart was my favourite, and I was grateful for the lightness of the fruit having already eaten so much. If like me you are unable to finish everything, the Cromwell Hotel will happily give you a box so that you can take your remaining cakes home with you.

The scones, jam and cream (whichever way you choose to put them together) were the absolute highlight of the tea. The scones were delivered warm – freshly made in the kitchen. They were light, fluffy and totally delicious. 

At just £14.95 per person (or £19.95 if you want to treat yourself to a glass of prosecco) the afternoon tea was great value. It was a lovely setting and the staff attended to us well. I will definitely be coming back.

Planning your hen do? The afternoon tea would be perfect for you and your hens. The hotel is also home to the new ‘Rump and Wade’ Brasserie – serving up delicious cocktails, so why not head there for the evening and then sleep over in one of the hotels newly decorated guest bedrooms (weekend prices from just £89).