Afternoon Tea at Seckford Hall in Suffolk Coastal

Had a lovely afternoon tea for my birthday this week, a beautiful setting it felt really special. The food was delicious and plenty of teapot refills, staff were very friendly and even noticed it was my birthday so I got an extra plate with a candle and a happy birthday sung. Would definitely recommend for a special occasion.

The outside setting is fabulous as we parked our Corsa amongst the elite cars.We had booked the afternoon tea with a Xmas voucher. We were sat in a lounge area with a big wood burner blasting out and we were in front of it on quite a mild day. Although it looks the part with panelled walls and velvet covered vintage lounge chairs, the assorted chairs aren't actually that comfortable any more.Tea was served on a coffee table but unfortunately although we'd been asked what we wanted to drink, it was then forgotten about until we asked. The food was just 'nice' nothing special about it and the scones we're the smallest I've ever seen anywhere. The cakes were not what I expected.Two small round ones needed a spoon to pick them up as my fingers went right through them and all 4 were very sweet and a bit sickly. I can't say I'd return as the experience wasn't that special.

Went to Seckford Hall on Saturday for Afternoon Tea. As it was my birthday I booked up and went with my sister using a gift voucher my sons had given me for Mother’s Day. Having been several years ago we were quite intrigued to see if it had improved since then. We were happy it has, the restaurant has been redesigned, staff were polite and friendly and the food was delicious. The choice of sandwiches were good, scones a good size not huge like our last visit and the delightful desserts were simply divine. The special Birthday plate with extra desserts was a lovely surprise, thank you to the chef, they were gorgeous. Only downside, there were two weddings taking place so staff were quite busy, no one saw us leaving so just as well we ate everything and didn’t need a cake box!

We had an afternoon tea booked for Monday 16th of September for 4 people, it was booked months ago with buy a gift, but on the evening of September 15th had an email saying they had been thru the bookings and found our booking, to be informed they are no longer taking buy a gift vouchers, to say we were annoyed is an understatement, THIS IS NO WAY TO RUN A BUSINESS LEAVING IT THE NIGHT BEFORE YOU ARE TO ATTEND.

Drive up full of pot holes parking terrible, walked in got pointed to a table not much table service felt we were alone only view of court yard , afternoon tea was ok nothing compared to the stoke by nayland golf coarse , the service was 3 star at the most will be my only visit the lower reviews I understand , promised so much and gave so little avoid at all cost not worth the money.

If you like history and Tudor buildings you will love Seckford Hall. Beautiful , well maintained grounds surrounded the buildings. Lovely easy parking ….all bodes very well. Once inside you are transported back hundreds of years, all very splendid. The afternoon tea we had outside on the terrace. The waitresses were both pleasant and our tea came quickly. For £ 28 each I was disappointed that we had tea bags, very ordinary thick white crockery and really not a very interesting and special tea! ( scones were very good ) Sandwiches rather unimpressive and cakes too. We would happily go again and we would recommend the venue , but the afternoon tea was only average unfortunately!

We went for afternoon tea. 3* just for the lovely scones, lots of cream and nice sandwiches. But service wasn’t great. Had to wait quite a while for a staff member to appear to seat us and again to pay after. Didn’t get either milk or lemon with my tea and had to ask. Two of the mini-cakes were stale, hard and dry. Not too impressed- there were only three tables occupied so it wasn’t as if they were busy.

Seckford Hall is stunning and provides the perfect backdrop to enjoy a scrumptious afternoon tea. Our wedding anniversary celebrations were made even more special thanks to Andrew and his team.

I brought 2 young Granddaughters for an Afternoon Tea treat; what a lovely experience for them! They enjoyed every minute, and were amazed to be in such truly beautiful and historic surroundings. All staff were very welcoming and kind - thank you. Seckford Hall is a wonderful gem of a hotel. I hope to return soon.

We went for afternoon tea for Mothers Day. On arrival we were told we were late, even though we had a confirmation email for the time we arrived. Instead of saying sorry for the confusion we were confronted with " its on my piece of paper, see". Then to be told we will still feed you, like we were inconveniencing them. A short time later we over heard a conversion between two colleagues saying we turned up late. The food was also average. I feel some training in customer service is needed.

Fantastic afternoon tea! My friend and I visited today for the festive afternoon tea. The setting was absolutely stunning and we couldn’t believe we saw some deer wondering anround the grounds, which just made it even more christmassy and magical. We were greeted with a warm welcome and the fires were lit keeping it very cosy on this cold day. The entire place was decorated beautifully too with stunning Christmas trees. We throughly enjoyed our wonderful afternoon tea, we couldn’t even eat it all but got offered to take some home to enjoy later. The scones are incredible, and the little cakes were so scrumptious. Rob was incredibly charming and one of the loviest gentlemen we’ve met in hospitality for a long time! Thanks for a fabulous afternoon, we will definitely be back.

Went for afternoon tea with my Wife. What a let down. We were shown to our table by a young lady who returned 5 minutes later to check who we and two other couples, who sat nearby, were. She claimed people had moved when she had just seated us all. Not a good start. She then asked if we would like tea or coffee. I said could we see a menu. She went off to get one and came back 5 minutes later and said she couldn’t find one. We had to ask what choice of tea we could have. We opted for Darjeeling. When the tea came we were shocked to see it was tea bags which could have been any tea certainly not Darjeeling!! Surely it is not unreasonable to expect proper loose leaf tea for the money paid. The sandwiches were ok, the Scones excellent but the cakes synthetic. We also asked for some water which we never got. It probably didn’t help that 3 weeks ago we had an excellent experience and afternoon tea (for a cheaper price) at Barnham Broom in Norfolk. On arrival we were presented with a menu and had an excellent tea with a wide variety of loose leaf teas and excellent food together with exceptional and attentive service from the Staff who couldn’t do enough. What a contrast to Seckford. I suggest you send someone to Barnham to see how it could and should be done. Would I recommend this to anyone- no. Would we return - most definitely no. In your industry service and quality is everything- you certainly failed on this occasion.

Seckford hall, arrived yesterday, the staff are so helpful, in all areas , looks nice pool & spa , having treatments this afternoon, dinner last night was excellent plus service , very nr Woodbridge very close to a 12 , yes a nice find

We were given a gift for afternoon tea. We tried to book via phone but were told no availability for months emailed the hotel reception and were told the central reservation was not great for booking and they could fit Usonian next week. We booked via email with reception, turned up to find no booking had to prove the booking by presenting the email on our phone, we were told they would check with chef if he would do an additional 2- waited 5 minutes for answer waited a further 5-10 minutes to be seated - no apology - just you can come through now….. the afternoon tea was good and the scones and cakes were delicious, the tea was ok but teabags not tea leaves which was a shame, we asked for butter for scones, this didn’t arrive so had to go to kitchen to ask again. The food was really good but the staff need training on customer service. We then went to reception to enquire about the future events and room tariffs and asked if there was a brochure, just to be laughed at and said no we don’t - you’ll have to look online. Not great customer service, felt like chatting with other staff members and computer screens were more important. We won’t give up and will try again as the setting and hall are lovely so would love to be made to feel welcome next time.

We paid a deposit for all family for a special 40th Birthday celebration. The booking had been cancelled and was told it was due to new management. Very poor afternoon tea, nothing homemade or scones etc. There were 6 children and 3 under 5 and was not catered for at all. When asked for a plain cheese sandwich, was given to slices of bread with packet cheese which was just cut in half and cheese fell out every where.

We had booked for a full afternoon tea this afternoon, which was a present to celebrate a special occasion. When we had afternoon tea before it was excellent - a good selection of sandwiches, homemade scotch eggs and sausage rolls, not to mention scones and cakes. This time however, was extremely disappointing. The restaurant was nearly empty so it was not as although the staff were snowed under. A couple arrived a good 10 minutes after us, yet their selection of afternoon tea came up straight away. We sat there for so me time, my tea was not even hot. We had a glass of Prosecco while waiting to celebrate, but shortly we became aware that we'd been forgotten. After some 30 minutes I left and asked what was happening and they did apologise, but the afternoon was spoilt. The sandwiches lacked lustre and were very few on the plate, the plain scone was hard and there was no sign of a scotch egg or sausage roll. Then once we started to eat (and a second pot of tea - this time hot), the waiter started to clear the table next to us, including taking the table cloth off and leaving the bear table - why did he have to do that in the middle of our afternoon tea? It totally ruined the ambiance for us. Needs attention and although this was a gift, we did not enjoy it at all. Yes, the waiter said the Prosecco was complimentary, but we'd have rather have paid and had a pleasant afternoon and a full and decent afternoon tea.

Well this was absolutely lovely. There was a very nice atmosphere in the restaurant and the staff were attentive and helpful. We had three layers on our full afternoon tea, the bottom having 4 sandwich fingers each:beef, ham, egg mayonnaise and cheese and chutney. The middle layer had a mini fruit and plain scone with clotted cream and jam. The top layer had four different mini cakes each which were a perfect size and pretty as a picture. We were able to walk round the snowdrop carpeted grounds afterwards and it was the perfect end to a lovely experience.

After staying here the night before our wedding over at Woodhall Manor last December, we were given an afternoon tea voucher to go back to the venue. We booked over the phone without an issue, but when we were 10 minutes away we were called to be told there will be a £5 fee per person as a supplement for visiting at the weekend, very late notice but thought whatever, its only £10. When we arrived we were directed from reception to the main restaurant to be sat down in a corridor. There was one other couple having the afternoon tea, with 5 or so other tables made up, so hard to see what the reason for a supplement fee was when it isn't due to high demand! We were sat by a nice chap, who came back shortly after we had started and offered us another pot of tea, which we accepted. This was the last interaction we had for the rest of our time. I assume he finished his shift, and no staff came to ask us if wee wanted anything, if everything was ok, not even to take our supplement fee! Now, the food, this is where we came across our main issue. Sandwiches were nice, as were the scones. and then the hair... Please see the photo of one of the cakes with a hair 'through it', not on it like it hadn't fallen on top, we tried to pull it loose but it was well cemented into the cake. As there was no members of staff to speak to, and the receptionist was checking people in or out, we decided after 20 minutes of sitting around to just leave. Its hard to call it bad service, more just no service. In the car on the way home we checked other reviews and someone had the same experience a year ago (minus the hair), management had replied stating changes would be made - they clearly hadn't. If you have a voucher to redeem, and the venue is further than a 10 minute drive, don't bother, spend the fuel money on a cake from the supermarket and 2 tea bags.

Having had many afternoon teas I can honestly say this was very overrated. Had to sit on armchair positioned in front of a low table, so had to balance the plate on my lap. Sandwiches very mediocre - egg, cheese and pickle, cucumber and beef smothered in mustard. Coffee was awful. I asked for a different one and that was even worse so I opted for water! Beautiful building but afternoon tea very disappointing.

Wanted to leave a review, because we've had a great afternoon and I feel the negative reviews are really unfair (or we have just been lucky). The service from the start was very good, friendly and professional. The afternoon tea was scrumptious, all aspects from savoury to sweet. As for extra hot drinks, all you have to do is ask! We got this as a fantastic deal via an experience website. Only tiny criticism was it was a tad hot in the lounge! Thank you for a very enjoyable afternoon, to the waiting staff and chefs. We even brought home goody boxes as couldn't eat all the cakes!

We used an ‘Afternoon gift Voucher’ and it appears you are seated in the corridor/ walkway ! Not in the beautiful spacious area ‘non voucher’ users are in. On arrival we were greeted in a non professional and unfriendly manner. As we were early we went tot the bar and waited patiently till a member of staff arrived . She was welcoming! Another couple waited over 15 minutes for service and a bar menu. We were then seated in what can in what can only be called a corridor area during in which over 30 ladies left the hall area and walked by during our tea to exit the hotel. Not a relaxing experience as we expected. We informed staff that we were vegetarian and appropriately 20 minutes later the afternoon tea arrived. There were 2 burnt vegetable balls and 2 battered cheese triangles. The rest of the selection was nice. No one during the tea came and asked if everything was satisfactory or did we require more tea or coffee. The male toilet seat was cracked and unhygienic especially for a food establishment. Seckford hall looks lovely but we will not be returning as very disappointed.

I was given a buy a gift voucher and used it to go for afternoon tea for two at Seckford Hall. It was the worst I’ve ever had. It consisted of 4 finger sandwiches each. Cheese and pickle, beef and horseradish, egg mayonnaise and cucumber with no cream cheese. A slither of sausage roll and a quarter scotch egg each. 2 scones each they were good. A selection of small cakes which were terrible. If they were home made they need a new pasty cook. I’ve now read through the reviews dating back to 2015 and nothing’s changed. It seems they don’t care if they are doing a good service

Today I and two friends had afternoon tea at the Hall, it was absolutely beautiful. Thank you so much.

We had afternoon tea at Seckford Hall and thoroughly enjoyed it. I am gluten and dairy free and was so impressed with the ‘sweet options’ I was given. Service was excellent, we were given a description of everything on our plates, we were asked on...

I don’t know squally leave reviews but seeing quite a few negative reviews about afternoon tea at seckford hall I thought I would put people who have booked at ease. Three friends and I had a gorgeous afternoon at seckford hall. We did an hour...

Disappointing. Very stodgy. 4 big scones - which to me didn't taste freshly baked. Slices of sausage roll and some very sad and very small sandwiches. Cheese and pickle and cucumber! The top tier was all sponge cakes and far too heavy. Had to find...

Had this during one of days whilst staying at the hotel. Excellent choice of savouries, cakes and sandwiches. The Scotch eggs were more than excellent. A treat not to be missed.

My first cream tea at this historic building. The food was delicious. Offered coffee from cafeteria or ‘machine’ on arrival. Went for flat white from machine, it was good coffee. After awhile the food arrived. Although asked for dietary allergies the contents on the plate...

Arrived early, so had a walk around the beautiful grounds. Once seated afternoon tea arrived almost immediately. The chef had iced 'happy birthday' onto the cake tier, which was a nice touch. We were given half a freshly cooked scotch egg each with bright yellow...

My father and friend and aunt and uncle had buy a gift vouchers that was for seckford hall afternoon tea, due to Covid only been able to use them, which was yesterday. It certainly was not worth the money paid for the vouchers. 3 tiny...

My son who is on an apprenticeship wage gave me a voucher for the Prosecco Afternoon Tea and he also came with me. I was saddened to see his face when the food was presented, and to hear him say I can’t believe I paid...

We had a lovely time when we had afternoon tea. Choice of tea and coffee. Lovely scotch egg and warm scones. Cakes very sweet but 3 each so we swapped. Quite busy even on a Friday but got attention when we needed it.

The hotel is beautiful and we were really looking forward to spoiling ourselves with afternoon tea but unfortunately the waiter was just so rude and his attitude towards us made us feel unwelcome. He constantly rolled his eyes and made everything we asked for seem...

Went here with my daughter and grandson, Beautiful location, delicious afternoon tea Very helpful and attentive staff, will definitely be returning

i came here with my mum and daughter for afternoon tea, the food was delicious, especially the scotch egg (to die for). It was well presented and served by attentive staff. The whole experience and ambience of Seckford Hall is amazing. Have already recommended to...

We were a small hen party taking the mums out. We used the spa in the morning, we didnt go for treatments but just the spa and pool was enough. Very clean and enjoyable. We then stayed in the spa cafe area and had the...

Firstly the service, it was dreadful. We had pre booked, I had mentioned we had a disabled member in our group and expected our table to be ready when we arrived at the booked time. It wasn’t. We were kept waiting in the hallway whilst...

Visited with a number of others to celebrate a special birthday. We had to choose, in advance, from two option for afternoon tea and it was served very elegantly. Those who ordered the larger option were very well supplied and shared some of their cakes with those of us who made the other choice. Even the smallest option was excellent.

We often visit here for afternoon tea and always receive a warm welcome they even know what we want we have been there so much through the winter and summer,the staff are very friendly and the place is steeped in history ,we have booked to stay over for Xmas as we enjoy it so much,on a winters day the place has a log fire but they also have the radiators on to keep the large building warm,they have lovely grounds with a large pond area all the grounds are well kept ,,,we a lovely walk round the pond ,,,as you go into the hotel there's a large heavy wooden door probably the original door! There in the hall way is a suit of armour hard to imagine they used to wear that for battle! There's always free papers of the day to read and the toilets are immaculate,on a very busy day we have to give them a nudge to get our tea but as we always have loads of time it doesn't bother us,the time flies bye when you visit here because it's so relaxing,you don't have to book if you want drinks and tea and coffee this is a place where you can drive up to and just visit ,definitely worth a look ,,,thank you to all the young staff what always makes us feel welcome

Stunning building, beautiful location.. poor quality high tea and disappointing service. We were a large group... suggesting they are not set up for this, so beware.

We had a lovely afternoon at Seckford Hall, it was a last minute booking in the same afternoon, our table wasn't quite ready when we arrived, for which they were very apologetic when infact I think we were early. We had a drink in the bar by which time a table was ready. The scotch eggs were amazing and worth going back just for them, I can honestly say the scones were the best I have ever had. We will be back and adding a spa day to the next visit. Thank you Seckford Hall for your wonderful hospitality and beautiful afternoon tea.

Having had a lovely afternoon tea here a few weeks ago we thought how nice to bring the mums out for Mother’s Day lunch. 7 of us plus 2 children age 3 an 23 months. Firstly advertising at £29.95 for 3 courses and a glass of bubbly on arrival. We sat down and was given the menu . Came to take order and we hadn’t been given bubbly or drinks menu . I asked the waiter for our bubbly and drinks menu and he didn’t even know about it and had to look the advert up on line. Anyway we did get it and order 2 bottles of wine and soda water and lime. We got one bottle and not the other drink . Starter came out and they were ok. Children sitting patient and came with main 45 minutes later , why I don’t know as it was 3.45 and empty. It came with out the potatoes as advertised with chicken and everyone’s was cold . Asked for gravy and never got it . When the children had there ice cream it came on a dinner plate . I did complain about it all and I got £3 each knocked off the bill , i didn’t make a fuss as mums were there , called to speak to manager and was told I would get a call back! No I didn’t, and all the meat was over done and dry, will never go back it’s a shambles. Very unhappy.

Visited with family to celebrate a birthday, the venue is lovely the service was great, all the waiting staff where friendly and efficient. There was a bit of a mix up with our order bit this was soon rectified.

Had a really relaxing day at the spa today, enjoying the pool, sauna, steam room and spa cafe.

Today we went for champagne afternoon tea a group of 16 with some allergies within the group- nothing was too much trouble, all perfectly catered for, absolutely fantastic staff Luis the manager along with his team we couldn't fault brilliant service , great value for money, fabulous food compliments to the chef! Highly recommend and definitely will be returning but for an over night stay or spa day.

Having not been to Seckford Hall for many years we decided a treat was in order so we set off for lunch there.

What fun! Arrived early and spent the day luxuriating in the pool/jacuzzi/sauna (shame the steam room wasnt working!) and booked a massage to complete the day. Enjoyed the warm welcome and staff couldnt do enough for us. The Afternoon Tea was delicious and it was well worth being hungry for - plenty of choice (perhaps sandwiches could have been thinner slices of bread but whose complaining!) even catered for a vegetarian request.

We had been to Seckford for afternoon tea last year and really enjoyed it and the service. I'm afraid to say this was not our experience this time. Like other reviewers the tea came ages before the sandwiches etc. The sandwiches were not the best, dry bread and unimaginative fillings. The decent one was the salmon one. I asked for another pot of tea. It didn't come so I went and asked where it was. Apparently whoever was asked to fetch us one had forgotten! Another wait. I am sorry to say we will not go again and as others have commented about tea arriving ages before sandwiches this should be addressed by management. Nothing worse than stewed tea!! No atmosphere and others who had finished lunch in one of the dining rooms walked through chatting as we were having tea.! There has to be another exit from the dining room!

Had not visited here for over a year due to previous experience. What a change. Staff could not do enough.

We went here to celebrate our anniversary. Seckford Hall itself is beautiful and the grounds are stunning, the food was lovely, we particularly loved the scotch egg and scones. The only negative was that the service was so very slow it was painful, there was simply not enough staff working. We would go back, but would hope the service improves.

We took an elderly (90+) friend for afternoon tea and thought the selection of food offered was excellent. A particular like of the three of us was the scotch egg, crispy coating, soft yolk and warm, the scones were delicious and there was a good selection of cakes.

We decided to treat ourselves to afternoon. Service was good but we found it odd to be asked if we wanted milk this afternoon!. This was perhaps because we had coffee instead of tea. I live in France and it is normal to ask for milk there, but not normal in UK. This did not affect our treat, but it just gave us something to laugh about. The stand they brought up was very good, especially the scotch eggs, could have eaten a few of those, as was the sausage roll. One finger sandwich of cucumber and a small smoked salmon wrap. Two scones each which were very nice, on plain, one fruit with jam and cream. this was followed by three small cakes each and a mouse type dessert which was very good. It was all very tasty and we enjoyed it. However we both said, as have other reviews on here that perhaps a couple more sandwiches and a few less of the sweet course. Overall a lovely treat in a beautiful setting.

We booked a table for 6 for afternoon tea which was arranged as a special treat for my wife's 89 year old mother and also our daughter. We were put in a large dining room and we were totally on our own throughout the two hours that we were there. So not much atmosphere, no background music and we almost thought we had been put in the "naughty room" and forgotten about.

I was treated today to a birthday afternoon tea at Seckford Hall by a very close friend who wanted to do something special for me and was assured that my food intolerances could be accommodated when the tea was booked a few weeks ago. On arrival they were very busy but the day and surroundings were lovely so we were quite happy to wait. When the cream tea did arrive (before the table had even been laid) I had to send it back as it obviously wasn't G&D; free (it was an afternoon tea for two people on one serving stand). We then waited quite a while for the correct tea to arrive, although by this time the table had been laid and we could enjoy a pot of tea. When the afternoon tea did arrive it was in stark contrast to my friend's who had several choices of savory and cake options and two scones with jam and cream. Mine on the other hand had four sandwiches - 2 cucumber and 2 roast beef. The sandwiches had no spread and were dry and the roast beef (which was a horrible choice for a filling) had an enormous lump of gristle in it. The two scones were flat, hard and dry and again there was no cream alternative or spread. The choice of cake was two identical cakes containing banana which I couldn't eat and a chocolate cake which was dry and horrible. My poor friend looked on in horror as I drank copious cups of tea to try to combat the dryness of the afternoon tea. I was never asked about the suitability of the tea prior it to being brought to the table, at no point did anyone check that the tea was ok and we were not offered any top ups. I do not usually give bad reviews preferring to give positive reviews or none at all but this afternoon tea was really horrible and if the chefs would like some decent recipes I would be more than happy to point them in the right direction. I would also urge them to try their creations and if it tastes horrible and dry to them it will to the customer too. My friend was very happy with her afternoon tea.

We had booked afternoon tea yesterday for 11 people to celebrate my father in laws 93rd birthday. We were disappointed for a number of reasons. Despite booking and having had an email to confirm this, nobody seemed to know anything about it when we got there. They eventually managed to lay a table for us in the dining room. About half of us were having tea to drink which was brought in one large tea pot. Bearing in mind the table was a long one and the tea drinkers were not all sitting together, this was not ideal. The coffee drinkers had several pots. The food, when it arrived was a disappointment. We each had one finger of sandwich with possibly a scraping of cream cheese (it was hard to tell) and a very thin slice of cucumber on slightly stale white bread....not a good start. There was half a warm scotch egg, a sausage roll and a smoked salmon wrap. The two mini scones were delicious however, but the rest of the cakes, carrot cake, a cream filled eclair and something very rich and chocolatey, did not prove popular with our party. Bearing in mind that cost £18 a person there is no way I can recommend The Seckford Hall for afternoon tea.

We enjoyed a lovely afternoon tea in the Garden Room overlooking the courtyard. There were sandwiches, sausage rolls, scotch eggs, scones and cream and 4 different cakes.

I booked afternoon tea via the website- a very simple process. We were delighted to be offered afternoon tea out in the garden on a very warm day. Tea was served hot and refreshed when we were low or asked for a refill. The staff were extremely pleasant and welcoming. I was also invited to take a look around the spa, thank you to Catherine for giving me a tour. I will definitely try the pool with afternoon tea sometime soon.

My wife and I recently visited Seckford Hall for afternoon tea. It was a lovely experience, well-organised friendly staff, really good scones, nice sandwiches, and lovely cakes. One of the better afternoon teas we have had.

Everything about our day was perfect. The spa treatments were very good. The staff were so friendly & professional. Our afternoon tea in the big house was excellent. I'd definitely recommend it to others & would make a return visit.

I was taken for a champagne afternoon tea experience. this was my first visit to the seckford hall hotel. when I turned up iwas blown away by its beauty, its amazing. then we were taken to our table and the surroundings were gorgeous. we were given our champagne, which was lovely. then our afternoon tea arrived, the food was top notch. sandwichs,sausage roll, scotch egg. then cakes and finally scones,cream and jam. I really could not find a single fault with anything. everything was as I would have wanted it to be. the waitresses were attentive ,without being in your face. the tea was flowing, nothing was to much trouble. they even wrapped some food we could not eat and was able to bring home. First class service , in a gorgeous setting.with so much history.

My sisters and I wanted to give our Mum a nice treat for Mother’s Day but we were all very disappointed by the poor service at Seckford Hall.

After just having spent a wonderful mini break at Seckford hall hotel and restaurant i feel a review is needed. An amazing hotel, staff were exceptional and very attententive to everyone and everything. An amazing welcome. The premises is amazing with a very lovely spa. The food was 10 out of ten, evening meal and great breakfast. However there was one point that so let it down. The bedroom... I booked a superior room and sadly this was not, very small and very tired. The matress was extremely lumpy and old which definitely needed replacing, no hot water or pressure in the bathroom.

I visited Seckford Hall with friends for a Spa Day, the grounds looked beautiful in their autumn colours,

I have read mixed reviews of afternoon tea here but I won a voucher so what’s to lose?! In the event I was extremely impressed and would recommend. If I have one criticism I’d have preferred another traditional sandwich rather than the smoked salmon wrap but that’s just my personal taste. The scotched quails eggs were super, and the scones were among the best I’ve tasted and clearly fresh from the oven. We were even given little boxes to take home what we couldn’t finish. A lovely way to break the diet...

Ah. English gentry at its finest, but affordable for visitors. Beautiful old building, lavish, triple-tiers of baked goodies, impeccable service, and a stroll in the garden.

I hired the Mulbery Suite for a special birthday afternoon tea on a Sunday afternoon and was delighted with the occasion. Although the pre-event organisation was a little wobbly I believe this was due to a change of administrative staffing and am confident this will be rectified. The service on the day was excellent - we had a dedicated member of staff who met our every need; he was unintrusive but extremely caring and professional. He really contributed greatly to the success of the afternoon. The tea itself was plentiful and good quality and the whole atmosphere was relaxed. It seems that customer experiences are mixed but I certainly could not fault the food, the staff, the service or the room itself. The venue as a whole is just beautiful.

Went for afternoon tea and had a wonderful time. It was incredibly peaceful, the grounds are lovely and the hall is beautiful. Wonderful time all around.

Fuimos a Seckford Hall la semana pasada para una merienda de cumpleaños 70th, y pasamos un tiempo maravilloso. La señora que nos cuidaba era encantador, y nada era demasiado problema, sólo desearía haber preguntado su nombre. El entorno es precioso y con un montón de espacio para los niños. Todo el evento fue un gran éxito, y el sol incluso salió, así que podíamos hacer uso de los preciosos jardines.

Un precioso edificio histórico, maravillosas instalaciones, personal educado, pero el té de la tarde fue una decepción enorme. Fue traído a tres niveles stand tarta a la mesa y mi reacción inmediata era "Es que? "contenía tres canapés de huevo (, jamón y atún), 2 bollos en miniatura (que estaban crudas en el medio), 2 una zanahoria bollos (rectangular, una simple con un dedo de algo en la parte superior) y un brownie muy duro. He tenido tés en otros establecimientos donde nos han tenido poco ollas de chocolate, tartas de frutas, sándwiches de salmón, todas decoradas de forma agradable con la fresa, etc. extraño Para la cantidad de dinero que pagamos por este Amargamente decepcionado. Entiendo las comidas allí son muy buenas, pero, obviamente, un chef diferente para el té.

16 personas se reunieron para desear un amigo mutuo una jubilación muy contentos.

Un grupo grande (16) de nosotros tuvimos una pre-reserva hoy el té de la tarde. Fue reservado para 3:00 pero fue 4:00 antes de tener cualquier té/café. Sandwiches de jamón, huevo y atún finas. No es muy emocionante, podría haberlo hecho con pepino en atún y berros contaminados en sandwiches de huevo. Bollos de crema eran de un buen tamaño pero no era crema cuajada. Teníamos suficiente para comer, pero el personal fue lenta con recargas de té/café. Té decepcionante teniendo en cuenta que cuesta £18. 00. . No vale la pena. Mejores opciones en otro lado.

Tuvimos un estupendo té en Seckford Hall Hotel. Tengo que decir que los comentarios sobre el personal un poco desorganizado sería correcta. Parece que no ha sido informado de los eventos para ese día en el hotel y posteriormente fueron incapaces de ayudar a los huéspedes a la llegada y parecía un poco desorganizado.

On arrival we enquired where we should go for a booked Afternoon Tea. Reception pointed to a room further on. We waited with no staff showing the receptionist came and went to find some staff.We were offered "the garden room" which frankly was a corridor overlooking the courtyard leading to the hotel function suite. We ordered Afternoon Tea with a waiter who was very pleasant.Indian tea was neither good nor bad. Frankly nothing special in a bag. Should have been leaf tea.Sandwiches were cut well but slightly dry and again nothing special with cheese/pickle, ham, tuna, egg. Should have been some smoked salmon, a little pot of mustard for the ham, cress with the egg, cucumber with the tuna, and definitely NO cheese and pickle.Scones were well baked but lacked flavour and a poor attempt to introduce dry fruit to one failed miserably. I had to ask for butter with my scones, but the cream and jam were superb.Cakes were like an afterthought. A mini chocolate profiterole filled with raspberry was the best. A mini cake with some bright yellow butter cream on top that tasted appalling. A cake that was so small it was not a cake.Afternoon tea should be elegant and about the detail. Its a ritual that encompasses many elements. Sadly lost at this venue that has a stunning building.

Went for afternoon tea for a friend's birthday. First of all we were served our tea about half an hour before the food so all the tea was long gone by the time it arrived. Next, we asked for vegetarian options- these came on the same plate as the meat option. We asked for replacements to rectify this - they were again sent out on the same plate as meat sandwiches. It's a good job we had very hungry and understanding vegetarians with us! There was nowhere near enough jam and cream for everyone so we had to ask for more.... and more tea.For £18 a head, we expected more - much more. Putting veggie stuff on the same plate as meat is such a basic no-no that there really is no excuse for getting that wrong...twice. We were compensated to a degree - complimentary teas and a glass of prosecco, much appreciated, but suggest that staff need a recap of how to deliver an £18 per head service.

I recently had afternoon tea with friends. No bone china tea cups but a range of different teas. The sandwiches were very unappetising, nearly all on white doughy bread. There was ham, cucumber, egg and possibly tuna - hardly any filling though!. Two scones, which were delicious, jam and clotted cream. Then the cakes!! We had orange cakes with orange icing and blue cakes with blue icing, then small square of victoria sandwich with bright red icing on the top, which stained the napkins!! These nearly all got left - food colouring gone mad!! Also Little profiteroles and little chocolate tarts, which were nice. Service was good to start with, then we seemed to get forgotten. I certainly wouldn't rush back!!

I have been here for afternoon tea three times now and although the first experience was fine, the last two have been disappointing. This is mainly because of the poor service, we felt forgotten about and it was pretty hard even finding someone to show us to our pre-booked table when we arrived. The food was ok, but nothing special and the scones on our last visit were very dry and almost inedible. Cakes have always been good though and a good range of tea offered.

My daughters took me for afternoon tea it was terrible cheep China I couldn't call them cakes and the scones were rock hard and we couldn't work out what was in the sandwiches

We have been to Seckford Hall before for family occasions and always received good food and service. Today (New Year's Day) was no exception. Good sandwiches, scones and cakes in a relaxed setting with good service. Have heard mixed reviews about this place recently but had no complaints today. Thank you.

Myself and 3 friends treated ourself to afternoon tea at Seckford Hall as a Christmas treat/meet up. We were shown to a table that was not in any main dining room - but in a corridor off reception. The table was small and hardly big enough and very wobbly! I think that the staff forgot about us for the majority of the time. Our table wasn't cleared and we had to sit there with all the clutter for a long time.However, that was not the main problem. The food was the main problem. The bread of the 4 very small sandwiches was stale. There was no salmon and cream cheese or anything of any quality that you would expect from a hotel like this. One just had a slice of cucumber in it. Two were tuna (I think - it really was hard to tell). They were very unappetising, bland and dry.Then we had a scone each which was tiny and rock hard. Then there were a few small pieces of cake. They too were very dry. So much so that we all tried them and left them. To be honest we couldn't even distinguish what they were.We asked to speak to someone and they took £10 off per person. We all agreed though that it would have been far nicer to have a lovely afternoon tea.I would never go back for afternoon tea- it really was shocking.

Drove up the most amazing drive to a beautiful old building. the afternoon tea was served nicely, the china was nice but could have been bone china, would have been a bit better. The teas was Brodies tea, cannot improve on that, the sandwiches were nothing to write home about but the scones and cakes were beautiful. Really enjoyed the setting and the staff were very nice and helpful.

Disappointing afternoon tea. We booked ahead on phone requesting meat free, but still got two ham finger sandwiches (on inspection - plastic ham). Scones were hard. Such a pity to offer poor food in such lovely surroundings. Service attentive. Won't be returning.

So disappointed. The staff were brilliant, attentive and professional but the food was such a let-down. The sandwiches were rather bland, a finger of each of ham, smoked salmon and cheese with pickle. The scones were small, one plain, the other fruit but had one current in so tasted plain. These were accompanied by a huge dish of jam and one of cream, which was a bit overwhelming. We had visited the Hotel to enquire about the Afternoon Teas a few weeks ago and had seen the teas on offer that day, they were amazing. Ours however was not the same. We had a slice of ginger cake each, a piece of madeira type cake and a small chocolate tartlet. We had expected what we had seen on our visit and on the website. The problem is my sister has purchased an Afternoon tea for her friend and husband and is worried she will encounter the same choice as ours. Such a shame: the staff are great, the atmosphere relaxing and tranquil and the surroundings beautiful. We feel the price did not reflect the quality we received.

Booking made via email, very helpful (Charlotte), also opted to go to Spa beforehand so asked for potential variance in booked time for tea, All OK.Arrived OK, went to Spa, it was what it was, small, a bit chilly, and not that clean to be honest. There are better locally, although not all offer such a low cost daily rate... But - Not sure I would rush back there.On to afternoon tea, reported to reception, got passed to an assistant who steered us towards what is essentially a corridor with tables in, (none made up) and said help yourself, to which I responded, its a corridor! and she left. Came back a short later, asked if we would prefer to eat in the restaurant... Yes please ... in which we find people already having afternoon tea, Why we got put in a corridor in the first place ..who knows!Then, not even sat down and we were asked what tea would you like, what have you got we asked? What would you like? What have you got? Waitress went off and got a menu. Tea arrived promptly, as did sandwiches, served by a very pleasant young chap, who through the course of the afternoon proved very polite and attentive but not intrusive. Well done him, an excellent job.As for the tea, sandwiches fine, but no information as to what was actually in them,,, (allergies? although I guess if you had them you would ask). Scones were nice but all the same, plain.All in all, food OK, service , eventually good, but whilst, yes its an afternoon out, it is certainly not anything special, and not a place I would rush back to based on this experience.

One of the nicest place to have afternoon tea, my friends have also enjoyed it too! They even said that this is was the best place they've been to for food!! So definitely recommend and no doubt go here again! Staff are extremely friendly and very polite!

I've been here a couple of times recently and thought it was fantastic! Lovely surroundings. Nice selection of sandwiches, scones and mini cakes. Generous top ups of tea.

Sadly we were very let down by Seckford Hall when we booked well in advance for a special family lunch. On checking with them to confirm the menu we were told that our booking had been cancelled as they now had a wedding booking for that day. Highly unprofessional and a very poor attitude to customer service as they did not even bother to inform us. Luckily we found Satis House in Yoxford were able to accommodate us at short notice and we had a fantastic time there instead!

The setting was lovely. The staff very very friendly and attentive. However, the selection of sandwiches was limited and the geloise sponge was slightly dry. Instead of two scones each there could have been some more savoury items eg cheese scone with cream cheese and piccalily, sausage roll or savoury tart to even out the balance between sweet and savoury.

We thought we would stop by on a Sunday for afternoon tea. There was an available table without booking which was handy. The area in which they hold the afternoon tea is very small and not all tables can see out to the gardens. The cakes and teas were great. Service was a little slow. Overall it was ok but nothing special.

After reading some of the reviews on here I was worried we were going to be disappointed. Well there was no need. Lovely afternoon tea, well presented and all very tasty. I asked for coffee instead of tea and this was no problem. We also asked for extra sandwiches and again this was no problem, and we were given top-ups of tea and coffee. Wonderful afternoon with friends in lovely surroundings. Can't wait to go again.

Top notch fayre together with impeccable service made our afternoon tea visit to Seckford even more special. Could not have asked for more - nothing was too much trouble. The ambience is unique - only downside was we couldn't stay longer ! Highly recommend this very special place to unwind and be spoilt !

Over all a really poor offering, very little for the price paid served on plates a cake stand is the least you expect is it not for afternoon tea? Very poor quality, dry bread, one cup of tea, scones that clearly aren't scones and tasteless cakes, such a disappointment and then over charged and argued with for the price of a child's afternoon tea even though it's printed on all the literature displayed on the tables and website. No response from the complaint I've put in writing either.

I booked Seckford Hall for afternoon tea for my Mothers 70th birthday as a treat. When we arrived we were greeted with surprise that non residents were booked in, tables were not cleared and we were not shown to a table. As it was over the Christmas period the afternoon tea was on a big table - we had to ask for sandwiches and the selection was limited. Not sure how long the cakes were out for..... This made it very impersonal and not at all what we expected - at £15 a head it was a lot of money for very little return. I sent off a complaint and there was no response (sent over 3 weeks ago).Overall very disappointing and would strongly recommend not going here.

My daughter purchased afternoon tea for my wife and me as a treat. We arrived at the hotel and were puzzled by the entrance. We had to walk through reception, which was really just a small office. The receptionist there was very kind and passed us on to another staff member. The other lady was drinking from a plastic bottle and showed us to a beautifully laid table in a corridor. Half of the tables were laid, the other half, those by the window were not. People were milling around and using the empty tables to text and rest. At the entrance to our dining corridor was a staff desk with the till and telephone. As staff spoke on the telephone the voices carried throughout the corridor. It may as well have been Kings Cross station. The menu was clear, but the waiter didn't give us the option for coffee as only teas were listed. When the sandwiches and cakes arrived the waiter didn't know what they were when I asked. He said the salmon was ham and hadn't a clue what flavours the cakes were. We've had better afternoon tea at our local garden centre. What a lot of fuss for nothing. The grounds are lovely, but I certainly would not trouble anyone to go there for an afternoon tea.

This was suppose to be a birthday treat from my lovely family. We were hustled to a dark room round a corner' left with an afternoon tea menu for 15 mins had to go and get someone to take our order. The crockery was your basic pound land white, no elegance about it. We had one pot to share for 3 which only served 3 small cups. At no time in the hour and a half we were there did they ask if we need to refresh our tea, no one at bar or reception so had to wait at reception to ask for refill. We opted for the more expensive tea at £15+ for that we had 3 small finger sandwiches,2 scones each with jam/cream a mini choc eclair obv iceland, mini sponge with jam and cream' a small choc tart with raspberry on top. On a couple of the pics posted there seems to be some sort of fruit dessert in a tower glass well we didn't get that!!! It's probably a set-up pic done by hotel staff . All in all VERY poor on all scores. We expected for the venue and the cost that this would be something special well it's NOT! Don't waste your money. very dismal. Went to pay and the tills had crashed. So nothing works there. Certainly not the staff, or the food,or the atmosphere. Thankfully the one good thing was I have a lovely thoughtful family.

Met at reception and were asked where we like our tea, opted for the garden which was a good choice. Scones and tea plus cakes were splendid.

Went yesterday to seckford hall for cream tea - 10 of us celebrating a special occasion. We were shown to a delightful room which had direct access to a lovely courtyard. So far, so good! It was when the tea was served that inadequacies surfaced. We ordered several different sorts of tea. Most were served in individual pots, but the English breakfast tea was served in a flask, very heavy to use and not at all what was expected at an English cream tea. The milk came in a china teapot with no lid! Have they broken all the milk jugs? Scones and cakes were fine, fresh and tasty. Our overall impression was 'that was odd'.

Afternoon tea for a party of fifty, quite a feat to pull of successfully with two attentive staff. Tea and coffee served buffet style, piping hot and fresh. Sandwiches had to have been sitting out a little while, however the tiny scones were warm and lashings of cream and jam provided. Bite size pastries, creme brûlées, brownies and eclairs, and waitress top ups of fresh coffee and tea. Delightful afternoon.

15 friends went along for afternoon tea at £15.95 per head. We were disappointed with the service and lay out of the food and drink. We were constantly sharing around a small pot of jam/cream and pots of tea/milk having to wait for this to be refilled. The tea was served in what can only be described as a school canteen teapot! Would of expected a China tea service in a hotel of this callobra. The set 'afternoon tea' was not good value for money paying an extra £7 per head for the privilege of 3 tiny sandwiches each. I know we were a large party however with a little planning this could of been made much more enjoyable and we did pre book giving notice.

A lovely afternoon tea with my mum and daughter. Something for everyone aged 12 to 81! The mini scones were warm (so often they are not) and the sandwiches were made freshly, so we were happy. Staff were attentive and helpful, with lots of tea refills. We had hoped to be in the pretty courtyard but I can't blame the hotel for the rain...

Seckford Hall is quite grand but afternoon tea is very ordinary. Afternoon tea should be a bit special, shouldn't it? Three finger sandwiches, two mini scones with cream and bought in mini cakes - oh and a quite nice mini chocolate mousse. The garden was plagued with wasps so we were directed to the lifeless, uninteresting and very ordinary dining room. The staff were good enough to break off their chatting to provide directions but they were, well, very ordinary. Such a nice old hall could do much better and make you want to go back. I only went because I couldn't get into Hintlesham Hall - I'll make sure I plan ahead better next time