Tealicious

Stopping in Durham on our way home from Newcastle wasn't originally planned, but we're so glad we did. Not only is a it a beautiful and historic place to visit, but we had the good fortune to come upon Tealicious Tea Room, on Elvet Bridge.

Already busy as we entered even though it was within the last hour of opening that day, we were lucky enough to find a table, so we sat down and had a read of the menu. The decor is simple and classic, the perfect understated tea room. We read the menu and a friendly smiling staff member came over to take our order. We chose to go for a high tea for two, but were told that as it was near the end of the day, all of the scones had sold out (I'm not surprised), but instead offered us a toasted teacake, which was just as good if you ask me. For our tea I chose vanilla Earl Grey, and my partner chose the house blend.

The tea was brought first, and as expected, was of a superb quality, and very enjoyable indeed. Our high tea came not long after, and we were surprised, as we this high tea was presented on a traditional cake stand, more akin to a traditional Afternoon Tea. We most certainly did not complain!

The bottom tier started us with our sandwich choices, we chose roast ham on brown, and regional cheese and chutney, also on brown. These came with side sauces of a very tasty mustard mayonnaise, and the chutney mentioned, as well as some crisps.

The centre tier was taken up by two giant slabs of cake! Real big boy sizes! My partner chose a mixed berry cake, and although I was greatly tempted by a salted caramel cake, I opted for a lemon Victoria sponge.

The sandwiches were very enjoyable, and the cakes were absolutely delicious! Wonderfully moist and flavourful, but never becoming sickly or too much. The top tier for now simply had jam and cream on it, as our friendly member of staff told us just to give her a nod when we were ready for our toasted teacake, so we could still have it warm. I didn't get a photo of it, but it was huge, and wonderfully light and tasty.

We really enjoyed this impromptu little visit to Tealicious, and we appreciate that although they were busy and it was nearing closing, we never felt rushed or that we were a bother. The staff were friendly, polite, and helpful, and made us feel welcome.

Whenever we next venture to Durham, we will definitely be returning to Tealicious!