Afternoon Cream Tea At Grim's Dyke

My family and I, who live nearby, occasionally visit this restaurant for cream tea on special occasions. In the past, the food and service have always been above average. However, our most recent visit was quite disappointing. It felt like we were in a scene from Fawlty Towers as we wandered around looking for someone to help us. After finally being seated in a cold room with plain wooden tables, it took about 15 minutes for us to be offered menus. Another 15 minutes passed before we were able to request water, which also took a while to be brought to us. After waiting for about 30 minutes, we realized we had been given different menus and had to wait even longer for this issue to be resolved. Overall, the experience was far from great and verging on terrible. It is sad to see this once charming tea room with delicious treats and excellent service decline to such a disappointing level. I wish them the best of luck in improving their service.

This restaurant used to be a lovely place to visit, but since changing ownership to Best Western, the standards seem to have declined. The service was lacking, with only two inexperienced staff members serving guests. I had planned on having afternoon tea for 3, but ended up choosing the fixed price menu for 2 or 3 courses for around £30, as well as a full afternoon tea for £32. There were obvious signs of cost cutting measures, such as inexperienced staff, no tablecloths, paper doilies on serving plates, and photocopied menus. Unfortunately, the food was average at best and did not justify the prices. The portions were large but too big, and the afternoon tea was disappointing with minimal sandwich and dessert portions. The lack of tea options and addition of a 10% service charge without consent was also off-putting. The duty manager, Richard, was rude and unhelpful when discussing the bill. Overall, the restaurant has gone downhill and I will not be returning. The location and atmosphere are lovely, but the food and service are lacking. I would recommend focusing on drinks and a walk around the garden instead. Best Western should reconsider their management of this local gem. No response to complaints was received, which speaks volumes about the current state of the restaurant.

My birthday celebration at the Grimsdyke Hotel included a delightful afternoon tea experience. We enjoyed a selection of sandwiches, miniature cakes, scones with jam and clotted cream, and a pot of our chosen tea, which was constantly replenished. The grand dining room, complete with a large fireplace, wooden paneling, and antique furniture, offered a charming atmosphere with stunning views of the gardens. Our waitress was welcoming and attentive, ensuring efficient service. Overall, it was a wonderful birthday treat that I would highly recommend!

We visited for afternoon tea. Paid a deposit in advance towards the final bill it was a set agreed price as per advertised on their website. Prices were agreed in the phone. Upon arrival food was limited for the ges were dirty. Service was chaotic had to ask for drink and water several times with waiting staff looking unhappy upon the request. They overcharged us hugely saying they changed their prices over mother's day weekend. Although it was not a mothers day afternoon tea. I would not recommend this place it is disappointing and the food was not oer and above and worth paying extra for. Avoid.

Great birthday experience, very nice tea, beautiful surroundings and helpful staff. A wonderful building and gardens with a fascinating history and so good to see it has not been spoilt or Disneyfied.