I’ve always wanted to visit Fallowfields near Kingston Bagpuize so thought it would be a nice idea to make tea a family affair this week.

We arrived at 3.30pm on a Sunday afternoon, feeling peckish, and were warmly welcomed and shown into the sitting room where our table was ready for us.

It was a very comfortable room with wooden floors, dark leather chairs and a varied collection pictures.

There was a tray of self-blended teas for us to choose from. I chose Girlie Grey, a blend of silver tea and vanilla, that turned out to be delicious.

Others took Darjeeling, Earl Grey and Assam teas, all from Jeeves & Jericho. They were served in attractive Komono cups and saucers of a good size, and all were delicious. The handsome tea pots and cutlery were all from Villeroy and Boch.

We couldn’t believe the amount and variety of food that constituted tea, they really push the boat out here.

A two-tier cake stand arrived with cucumber, cheese and ham sandwiches on white bread, and smoked salmon and cream cheese on brown. Then arrived with some Loch Duart smoked salmon with white egg, yoghurt and dill. It was very light and delicious, but possibly could have done with brown toast.

The freshly cooked Fallowfield quail scotch egg was served with a dot of brown sauce and utterly delicious, as was the crispbread with light pate and fruity chutney.

And last but not least, a cheese toastie with Parmesan crisp.

It was clear we were going to have to pace ourselves before we embarked on the next round so we had a quick look at the pretty gardens and the farm animals.

Then back to tea where fresh plates and a jug of water were ready for the cake tasting.

The cake selection, presented beautifully, was delicious. They ranged from carrot, lemon drizzle, black forest gateau, strawberry cheesecake, chocolate delice and macaroons plus eight warm fruit scones for four of us, served in neat bowls straight from the oven, with strawberry jam and clotted cream.

A lot of care and planning went into producing this vast spread. We were very well looked after and loved the friendly relaxed atmosphere of the hotel. Which means that Fallowfields is now right up there with my other favourites The Randolph, The Feathers and Eynsham Hall

* Fallowfields Country House Hotel and Restaurant, Faringdon Road, Kingston Bagpuize 01865 820416
* fallowfields.com
* Afternoon Tea £16.95 per person