Messing About on the River – The Mitre, Hampton Court
As we step into summer season it makes perfect sense to sip a chilled glass of rosé on a sun drenched terrace!
There are some days that just feel like the start of summer and this gave us exactly that, blue skies, warm sunshine, and the perfect excuse to slow down have some girlie time and soak it all in by the water.
Set right on the banks of the Thames, The Mitre Hampton Court is one of those places that instantly makes you stop and stare, as you walk into its entrance you see a grand doorway adorned with a stunning arch of flowers and the show stopping entrance to the downstairs terrace, a collaboration with Ultimate Provence – creators of the most fantastic rosé from their vineyards in the heart of the Plaine des Maures.
A Terrace Made for Summer
As we stepped down into the terrace area, it was hard not to feel like we’d stumbled into a little oasis of tranquillity but with an upbeat but chilled vibe, right on London’s doorstep. We had just the most perfect weather the Thames glistened in the sun’s rays, boats glided past, laughter filled the air, all the signs of people making the most of the sunshine. Again filled with flowers and a tree with its own exit into the sky through the canopy above, a photo worthy setting you will want to capture.
We were shown to a pretty table surrounded by flowers, views and atmosphere, we sat back and were given a chilled glass of rosé spritzer whilst taking a look at the new Botanical Afternoon Tea menu. And honestly? That first sip, with the sun on your face and the river sparkling beside you, is what spring turning into summer is all about.
Effortless Riverside Living
What makes The Mitre so special is how easy it all feels. There’s no rush, no pressure, just good food, great drinks, and a setting that does most of the work for you. Whether you’re stopping by for a long lunch, an afternoon drink, or making a proper stay of it, it’s the kind of place that encourages you to linger.
Botanical Afternoon Tea
The most beautifully presented tea stand was served to us with:
Savoury Selection:
Beetroot-Cured Salmon Horseradish Crème Fraiche on Wholemeal Bread
Free range Chicken & Lemon Mayonnaise Served on Soft Brioche
English Pea & Cheddar Tart
The Sweets:
Freshly Baked House Poppy Seed Scones Served with Cornish Clotted Cream and Homemade Preserve (with real pieces of fruit inside)!!
Citrus Blossom & Dark Chocolate Torte – Rich Chocolate and Orange Blossom Ganache, Crisp Pastry Tart, Finished with Fresh Citrus
Raspberry & Almond Muffin, Rosewater Cream – Light Almond Muffin with Fresh Raspberries, Topped with Delicate Rosewater Cream
Lavender Cloud Meringue with Wild Blueberries – Crisp Lavender Meringue with Whipped Cream and Sweet Blueberry Compote
Alongside we were served a chilled glass of ultimate Provence rosé –
“A vibrant pale pink colour with copper highlights. This wine offers an intense palette of aromas, revealing notes of fresh lemon, exotic fruit and bold floral notes, in keeping with the image of its estate. On the palate, this unexpected rosé dons its finest finery to deliver a breath of freshness underscored by the spicy notes of white pepper”
The Botanicals in the patisseries totally complimented the delicate freshness of the wine – I’m no wine connoisseur but I could tell the pairing is a match made in heaven and we definitely went back for a second glass.
The Perfect Day Out (or Staycation)
Being so close to Hampton Court Palace, it’s ideal for turning a day of exploring into something a bit more indulgent. Wander through the palace grounds, take a stroll along the river, then finish the day exactly as we did, glass in hand, watching the world drift by as we cruised down the Thames on a self-drive boat ride with Harts boats, available to book through The Mitre. This was so much fun, we meandered past stunning riverside homes, watched the rowing boats from a local club glide past and just reflected on how amazing the UK is on such a beautiful sunny day.
Better yet, stay the night and make it a proper riverside escape, which is what we plan to do next time.
A Slice of Luxury
“Messing about on the river” might sound simple, but at The Mitre, it feels like a little slice of luxury. It’s relaxed, beautiful, and effortlessly enjoyable, the kind of place you’ll want to return to again and again.
If you’re looking for a spot that captures that first real feeling of summer, this is it.
Gifted Invite to celebrate the opening of the Terrace for the summer season. Thank you so much for looking after us so well from the invite to the lovely friendly and knowledgeable staff .
Read more of our afternoon tea recommendations here.
By Sarah Bourne
Image credits Sarah Bourne & Dreamstime
