Recently I was invited to attend an afternoon tea cookery demonstration at The Celtic Manor. I love afternoon tea, the prettiness of the tiny cakes, the delicate sandwiches and the endless cups of tea. I didn’t need to be asked twice.

Having stayed at The Celtic Manor previously and knowing how much of an emphasis they put on quality I had high hopes for this event and I was not disappointed.

On arrival myself and my sister had a cup of tea with a piece of millionaires shortbread which got us off to a good start.

We then headed into the Masterclass and what a treat that was. We were shown how to make miniature trifles, batterberg sponges, vanilla cones and many more..

It was fascinating watching the chef at work, creating such intricate cakes with ease. Plus we had a chance to sample each creation. I wondered at the end of the class if I would have any room for the actual tea ( I did of course manage ).

As a real food and cookery lover I had an inkling I would enjoy the demos but it was a surprise to see my sister who doesn’t really enjoy cooking so engaged in it too. I think this would be such a fabulous gift for someone. It’s a great girls day out although I see no reason at all why men wouldn’t love it too. After all who doesn’t love cake after cake after cake?

After the class we were taken back to the bar area for a gin cocktail beautifully served in a tea cup before being seated for our afternoon tea.

The savoury selection of canapés and wraps were served in a picnic basket which was so incredibly cute I just wanted to take it home with me. The frittata and egg mayo brioche were my favourites although it was all delicious.

I didn’t think I could eat another cake but I did, more than one actually. After the cakes and sandwiches we were served two warm scones with tubs of clotted cream and jams which somehow I didn’t photograph..they were awesome I promise.

Alongside the food there was a wide array of teas to choose from as well as refreshing raspberry lemonade which was so incredibly good. The remainder of the tea which we couldn’t finish was packed up in two boxes for us to take home and was greedily jumped on by our family on our return.

I think these masterclasses and demonstrations that are held at The Celtic Manor and The Newbridge On Usk are excellent value for money. The event we went to would have cost £45 for everything. I think for what you experience and eat it’s a bit of a bargain. It’s a luxurious and indulgent experience. There are more of these events coming up. I like the sound of the Christmas Foodie Gifts demo. You can read more about them here.

*We were invited to review the cookery demonstration and as such our tea was complimentary.