Autumnal Tea Time Tales!
By Rebecca Liu ’25, Head Editor-in-Chief; Edited by Rawnie Sun ’25, Head Editor-in-Chief
Put on your snazziest, classiest outfit. We’re going to high tea!
Located at the Prince of Wales Hotel in the historic Niagara-on-the-Lake district, the Prince of Wales Hotel is a beautiful Victorian building originally built in 1864. With notable guests such as the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall (who later became King George V and Queen Mary) and Queen Elizabeth II, there wasn’t a more perfect place to have an afternoon of high tea.
Wearing a lovely floral dress and finally being able to break out my petticoat, I attended high tea as a weekend activity with a handful of other Ridleians. Arriving outside the hotel, the building is the picture of Victorian architecture with its steep, tiled roofs, bay windows, and ornate details. Walking into the lobby was like stepping straight into a historical fantasy.
When seated, we were presented with a wide array of teas, cheese platters, and pastries to try to our heart’s delight. I chose the Darjeeling 2nd Flush, a gorgeous black tea with a smooth, sweet finish. Some of the other attendees had the teas Heavenly Cream, Peaches and Cream, and Niagara Fields, all seeming to be excellent choices.
Next, we were served a plate of cheese, including wedges of brie, aged cheddar, blue cheese and more. I found the plate to be a lovely selection for me to dabble in, especially as someone who is not a big fan of cheese. The standout for me was the soft brie that melted in my mouth, but I still despise blue cheese (sorry to my cheese lovers).
With the cheese and crackers cleared, next came the three-tiered cake stand with pastries, scones, and sandwiches galore. Beginning at the bottom with the first course of savoury treats, I had a cucumber, smoked salmon, and egg sandwich. Moving upwards, I had the Prince of Wales’s signature housemade scones with jam, whipped butter, and crème fraîche. At the top, feeling a bit too full, I had some lovely sugar cookies, cupcakes, and tarts.
Afterwards, we were provided with small boxes to take any leftovers we had. Our waitress was even kind enough to gift us some sample teas to try. As I walked around the area afterwards, I couldn’t help but marvel at the beauty of the area as an autumn breeze breathed past
The entire experience was like a fairytale, transporting us into another world for an afternoon. Arriving in Niagara’s historic region, sitting with lovely company in a gorgeous drawing room, drinking rich tea, and snacking on delectable treats made for a lovely way to pass Sunday. The next time High Tea spots open, I highly recommend signing up!
