Boris has spoken and the British public will finally be allowed to enjoy the great outdoors together again this Spring. From 12th April, Essex country house Down Hall will be reopening with lunch, afternoon tea and cocktails on its al fresco terrace, perfect picnic hampers and a host of family-friendly outdoor activities to welcome back all its lovely locals for some post-lockdown luxury.
The Terrace
Lunch and afternoon tea will be served on The Terrace for locals looking for a taste of luxury on their doorstep. Overlooking the stunning grounds, the Terrace is a south-west facing suntrap with its own outdoor bar and plenty of patio heaters, making it the perfect spot to catch up on those missed moments with friends. All menus celebrate the best in British produce with ingredients sourced from local suppliers and the hotel’s own kitchen garden. Dine on a selection of light, modern English dishes such as smoked mackerel niçoise or goat’s cheese and sun blushed tomato quiche.
For a quintessentially English experience, Down Hall’s traditional afternoon tea menu is a triumph. Delicate finger sandwiches of truffled egg mayonnaise and smoked salmon with dill are followed by scones laden with jam and clotted cream, and seasonal sweet treats such as orange blossom cheesecake and strawberry & vanilla Battenberg. All afternoon tea comes with a selection of fine tea to choose from for £30 per person, with additional prosecco or Champagne for up to £10 per glass.
Perfect Picnics
If you’re looking to enjoy a taste of the English countryside and make the most of the Spring sunshine, picnic al fresco for a modern and safe way to dine out! Down Hall is opening up its expansive grounds, so bring your picnic rug and claim your spot within the 110-acre estate of gardens and woodlands. The picnic hampers feature a selection of freshly baked goods, sandwiches and sweet treats, or go all out with an afternoon tea hamper, each with child-friendly options available.
Picnic hampers are priced at £25 per adult and £15 per child. Picnic afternoon teas are £30 per adult and £15 per child.
Family-Friendly Fun
Not just for wonderful food and delicious drinks, Down Hall is also the perfect spot for al fresco fun for all families. Take a relaxing walk through the forest and explore the hotel’s vast woodland, parkland and landscaped gardens with a whole host of outdoor activities across the estate. The kids’ playground and giant games are perfect for the little ones, whilst adults may enjoy a game of Boule or croquet and the lawns are just perfect for expending lockdown energy.
Being outdoors at Down Hall has never been better.
