Every weekend the Gryffe team travels across Scotland, filming at some of the most stunning buildings Scotland has to offer. The Signet Library is one of our favourite Edinburgh venues. Located right in the heart of the Old Town, just a stone’s throw from the historic St Giles Cathedral, and steeped in history. So when we found ourselves with a rare day off, we could think of no better place to spend it than in the Signet’s gorgeous Collonades room indulging in a splendid afternoon tea.
Our bouche was amused by a serving of Roasted Pepper and Tomato soup, served in the dinkiest of tea cups. This was followed by a selection of delicious hot and cold savouries including a goat’s cheese tart, mini Aberdeen Angus burger and a medley of sandwiches.
No afternoon tea would be without some scones, lovingly smothered in clotted cream and jam. And you don’t just get any old jam here, you are presented with a pot of Isabella’s strawberry and Champagne compote. We don’t know who this Isabella person is, but she makes a mean preserve.
Saving the best til last, we gorged on a range of lip-smackingly indulgent sweet treats, handcrafted by the Signet’s resident pastry chef, Matthew Oates. From the passionfruit éclair to the Belgian chocolate and Hebridean salted caramel tart, our tastebuds were doing a happy dance.
All of this was washed down with lashings of the obligatory tea. And since this is not your average tea house, there are of course a variety of blends suitable for the most delicate of palates.
And so, two hours later and with our top trouser buttons undone, we left the Signet sated, full and fit to burst.
We’ll definitely be back soon. But next time we’ll be wearing elasticated waistbands.
Afternoon tea at the Collonades in The Signet Library starts at £60 per couple.
For more information see http://www.thesignetlibrary.co.uk/colonnades/
Katy & Mark’s Wedding Day Highlights from Gryffe Weddings on Vimeo
