What better way to indulge over the festive period season than with a lusciously refined afternoon tea in the grand environment of Port Lympne’s mansion, bathed in a glow of a crackling log fire.

Settle down to enjoy this quintessential British classic in the historic surroundings of one of England’s finest Grade II listed country houses, once a favourite retreat for royalty, aristocracy, prominent politicians, authors and playwrights.

The hotel’s masterly pastry chef has designed a delectable festive menu, featuring seasonal takes on tantalising traditional delights, such as elegant bronze turkey finger sandwiches, buttery scones with spiced cranberry and orange preserve, candied chestnuts, rich chocolate Yule logs and mice pie cheesecake.

Accompanied by a wide selection of loose-leaf teas and coffees, these delicately crafted savoury bites, pastries and desserts, served on traditional tiers, will delight the palate and ensure the experience is truly the cherry one the decadent Christmas cake.

The Port Lympne Festive Afternoon Tea launches on 4^th December and can be booked online https://www.aspinallfoundation.org/port-lympne/restaurants costing £29pp (not including entry fee to the animal reserve).

Following your Afternoon Tea why not make a day of it and explore the wild animal park and reconnect with nature and your loved ones in the heart of the Kent countryside surrounded by over 900 rare and endangered animals. Included in your day tickets are free seats on the iconic Port Lympne Truck Safari that takes you round African and Asia to get up close and personal to giraffes, camels, rhinos, zebras and many more.

Day entry can be booked online www.portlympne.com / costs £29 per adult, £26 per child and free for under 3’s.