Adam Ain't Cooking

It was our anniversary, and as we love a good Afternoon Tea, we decided we fancied trying somewhere we've not tried before, and The Dearden was on our list, as is has great reviews and the photos make it look wonderful. It's in Haslingden in Rossendale. Booking was a nicely handled affair, with my booking being handled by a reservations site, and confirmed for me via EMail.

When we arrived, we noticed The Dearden really stands out on the little cobbled street on which it sits. It's a bright and cheerful building, with beautifully maintained flowers and plants on the fences and by the windows. The only initial problem was that we couldn't find parking, as it was street parking with time limits, however we found something nearby that was free, which was a relief. I'd say to just check the local parking options before you set off, so you know where to head.

When you step through the front door, the "new customer" bell gives a mighty "thwack" of a ring as you open the door. I don't know why but that made me smile straight away. You're greeted in a corridor by a member of staff with a cleverly wall-mounted tablet, allowing them to keep tabs of reservations and the such. We are taken into the room on the right, and seated in a corner by the window.

I would not say the seating is cramped, but as the building itself used to be an old Counting House, they only have so much room they can work with, so have a fair few tables in the room (I didn't see the other room, so can't comment), but it's more cosy than cramped, and as it's very pleasantly decorated with vintage and period decor, with lovely high ceilings and the oldies playing gently in the background, you feel comfortable right away.

We are handed the menus, which were made of wood with ironwork hinges! Unique! The menus within this interesting binder are comprehensive and tempting, mentioning special themed evenings and Afternoon Teas, the general menu, the Afternoon Tea menu, and a very impressive selection of teas available.

On this instance, as we had pre-booked Afternoon Tea, the staff were aware of our pre-order, and simply asked us which drinks we'd prefer with our Afternoon Tea. My partner opted for the Assam, and I went for the Rose Congu. These arrived first, allowing us time to relax and chat over some very lovely quality tea. The table was decorated in period fashion as you would imagine, complete with vintage lace tablecover, fresh flowers, and a bobbin as a table number. Another unique element.

Our Afternoon Tea cake stand was brought out, and with it our waitress wished us a happy anniversary, which had also been written in chocolate on the rim of the top plate, a very sweet touch indeed. We were told the sandwiches we had, and what each of the cakes and delights were, then left to enjoy. And enjoy we did! Sandwiches were tasty, but might have benefited from a chutney or mayonnaise or something to add a touch of moisture (but they were still very nice!), the scones were warm and nothing short of perfect; we were given a fruit and a plain scone each. The treats on the top tier included two of each; white chocolate dipped strawberries, a chocolate tart, raspberry cream macarons, and a little pot of rhubarb and custard. Superbly English!

We really enjoyed it. We've had some hit and miss Afternoon Teas, but this is up there with the better ones! If they just had a look at potentially enhancing the sandwiches a little, I would put this as one of my top 3 without question!

The young staff were friendly, professional, and bright eyed with smiles all round. A really nice thing to see, and made you feel both welcome and happy.

I loved some of the little details too, such as a re-purposed chair on the patio area at the front which was now a water drinking station for dogs! Lovely! A stand as you enter the tearooms lets you know that they currently only accept cash only, however they are literally next door to a shop with a free cash machine, so that's no problem.

We really enjoyed our visit, Dearden. Not just as customers, but as an anniversary treat. You really made us feel special, thank you.

Rest assured, we will be back! :)

The Dearden Tea Rooms
12 Deardengate,
Haslingden
BB4 5QJ
(01706) 557 300
http://deardentearooms.co.uk