Festive Afternoon Tea at The Milner York: A Delicious Yuletide Treat

An Elegant and Inviting Setting

Afternoon tea, The Milner York is a true showstopper. With its late-Victorian architecture, sweeping iron staircases, and sky-high ceilings, the building itself is as much of a feast for the eyes as the food is for the belly. The grandeur of the venue might seem a bit intimidating at first, but trust us when we say: the warmth of the atmosphere quickly puts you at ease. The hotel’s rich history (it’s been around since 1878!) and its beautifully restored details set the scene for an afternoon that feels like a little piece of luxury.

Afternoon Tea, The Milner, York: A Seasonal Twist

Now, let’s talk about the real star of the show: the Festive Afternoon Tea. Afternoon tea is an institution in the UK, and nowhere is that more apparent than in York, which has a rich legacy of chocolate-making. After all, this is the city that gave the world Rowntree’s and Terry’s! This festive variation takes inspiration from that very legacy, with Executive Chef Aaron Craig crafting a holiday spread that’s as decadent as it is delicious.

From December 1st to December 31st, you can enjoy a three-tiered culinary journey at The Milner for just £29 per person or £12.95 for children under 12. Whether you’re celebrating with friends, family, or a special someone, this is an experience that will add a little sparkle to your season.

A Warm Welcome: The Milner Experience

We arrived at The Milner York anticipating a romantic, peaceful afternoon of tea and cakes – but, as often happens when you have a seven-year-old, things didn’t quite go to plan. Our little one, full of energy and questions, joined us for the afternoon. Initially, we were a little worried about how he’d behave in such a refined setting. But, from the moment we stepped through the doors, all our worries melted away.

The staff at The Milner – led by the fabulous Victoria – welcomed us with open arms. The high ceilings and opulent décor no longer felt imposing; instead, they felt cosy and inviting. As our son put it perfectly, “The people, the place, the food… well, they’re all excellent.” We couldn’t have said it better ourselves.

Afternoon Tea, The Milner, York: Three-Tiered Heaven

We opted for the Prosecco Afternoon Tea (because, let’s face it, what’s a holiday celebration without a little fizz?). Our son was thrilled to join in the festive cheer with his very own glass of pineapple juice. Then, the magic began as the three-tiered tray of delights was placed before us.

First up, the savoury section: a glorious assortment of sandwiches. We were treated to a selection that could easily have fed a small army, but we managed to devour every bite. Well, almost. Think roast turkey and cranberry, brie and caramelised onion, smoked salmon with lemon and chive crème fraîche, and the essential cucumber, dill, and cream cheese. And because it’s the festive season, they even threw in a little festive sausage roll with chestnuts – the perfect seasonal touch.

Now, onto the sweet stuff. And oh boy, what sweet stuff it was. We started with a traditional fruit scone, served warm and soft, followed by four show-stopping sweet treats. In true festive style, we had the Fluffy one (Christmas Pudding choux), the Rich one (a mini chocolate orange cheesecake), the Fruity one (a mince pie frangipane), and of course, the Cherry on top (a Black Forest layer cake). Every bite was like a holiday hug for your taste buds – indulgent but balanced, festive but not over-the-top.

And let’s not forget about our son – he was given his own three-tiered tray, featuring all his favourite things: ham and cheese sandwiches, scones, cakes and even a hot chocolate treat. (The fact that he was treated like a king made his day – and ours!)

Festive Charm and Holiday Cheer

What truly sets The Milner’s Festive Afternoon Tea apart is the perfect balance of tradition and festivity. There’s a definite holiday twist, but it’s not overdone – the treats are just the right amount of festive without feeling like they’ve been dipped in tinsel. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a beautifully decorated Christmas tree to make the experience even more magical? Our son couldn’t take his eyes off the tree and was delighted to snap a few photos.

We enjoyed the afternoon sipping from traditional blue and white Georgian-style crockery, while the festive cheer swirled around us. And after indulging in the tasty treats, we couldn’t resist heading into the grand hall for a few more Christmas tree pictures – because why not?

A Perfect Holiday Experience

Whether you’re a local or a visitor to York, The Milner’s Festive Afternoon Tea is the perfect way to celebrate the season. With its blend of delicious food, festive charm, and historical elegance, it offers an experience that’s both luxurious and welcoming. So, grab your loved ones, put on your best Christmas sweater, and treat yourself to an unforgettable afternoon at The Milner York.

Book Your Festive Afternoon Tea at The Milner York Today!

This seasonal treat is available throughout December, so don’t miss out. Whether you’re treating yourself or someone special, the Festive Afternoon Tea at The Milner York is the perfect way to indulge in the holiday spirit. Book your spot now and experience the magic for yourself!

Read our article below about the transformation from The Principal to The Milner York.

The Milner Hotel Premieres in York