High Tea at Eliza's Manor

A dream come true for High Tea lovers in and around Christchurch, Eliza's Manor is putting on an exceedingly stylish spread that speaks to the pampered princesses in us all.

Almost regal in look and feel, driving up to Eliza's Manor gives one the feeling that they're in a Jane Austen novel. A stunning villa with quaint shutters and eaves, this place is the stuff of fairy tales. Enter the dining room and you really start immersing yourself in the royal experience. A symphony of crushed velvet drapes, porcelain statues, pristine white tablecloths and beautifully carved furniture to match, Eliza whisks us away to the likes of Buckingham Palace for the royal treatment.

Given the venue, you can imagine just how exquisite the High Tea is. Where no detail is left to chance, graze on dainty savouries paired with high-end ingredients such as crab, manuka smoked ham, parmesan custard and pancetta. Follow these with sweet treats that showcase the house's finest patisserie. Although considering how stunning the macarons, choux au craquelin and crème brûlée are, they might actually prove too pretty to eat.

Of course, no high tea is complete with tea. Best enjoyed out of a china teapot, elegantly pour a piping cup before raising the teacup and saucer to your lips like the Queen demonstrated throughout her reign. Alternatively, really make it an occasion with a glass of bubbles or a My Fair Lady cocktail. After all, what else is a fair lady meant to drink?