A Royal Tradition served with Highland Charm
National Afternoon Tea week is the perfect excuse to slow down, savour something delicious and celebrate one of Britain’s favourite traditions. At Rothesay Rooms, afternoon tea is more than finger sandwiches and cake. It’s an opportunity to step into a piece of Scottish history, enjoy some of the country’s finest produce and take a moment to appreciate life’s simple pleasures.
Steeped in history and highland charm
Set within the beautifully restored Old Royal Station in Ballater, Rothesay Rooms offers a truly unique setting for afternoon tea. Once the station’s ticket office and waiting room, the building has since been transformed into the elegant tearoom guests enjoy today. The former railway platform now serves as the café, home to a lovingly crafted replica of Queen Victoria’s Royal Carriage.
From the rich green interiors and tartan-clad antique chairs to the warm Highland welcome, every detail has been carefully considered to create an experience that feels both luxurious and unmistakably Scottish.
“As soon as guests walk through the door, they’re stepping into a place with a real story to tell” says general manager, Jo. “It’s not just about the food. It’s about taking time out, relaxing and enjoying the experience”.
Regional flavours take centre stage
For head chef Cammy, afternoon tea is an opportunity to showcase the ingredients available right on Rothesay Rooms’ doorstep.
His standout favourite is the venison, pork, black pudding and cranberry sausage roll, made with locally sourced Glen Muick venison. “It celebrates the fantastic produce we have available, all brought together with a cracking cranberry sauce”, says Cammy. From Scottish Clava brie and onion jam bridge rolls to haggis bon bons with whisky cream sauce and homemade shortbread with clotted cream, the menu is packed with Scottish favourites. But it’s the miniature serving of Cullen Skink in an espresso cup that often steals the show. “It’s a little quirky,” laughs Cammy, “but it always gets people talking.”
A little tradition, a little surprise
While afternoon tea remains firmly rooted in tradition, the team is always looking for ways to keep the experience fresh. Seasonal fruits, homemade compotes and carefully crafted cakes sit alongside classic favourites, creating a menu that feels both familiar and exciting. As Cammy explains: “No two guests are the same, so neither are their favourites”.
The spirit of creativity extends throughout the menu. Cammy enjoys experimenting with unexpected flavour combinations and putting a twist on tradition. One of his favourite creations was a chocolate brownie infused with Guinness, topped with salted caramel and caramelised peanuts. “The Guinness creates a completely different flavour profile from a traditional brownie,” says Cammy.
The experience has evolved in other ways too. Jo explains: “The introduction of Rothesay Rooms’ two-course afternoon tea, has only added to the occasion, with guests enjoying savoury dishes first before eagerly awaiting the arrival of the iconic tiered cake stand”.
A royal return for Afternoon Tea Week
To celebrate Afternoon Tea Week, Rothesay Rooms is serving up something special. From 26th-30th August, every guest enjoying afternoon tea will receive a vintage-style railway return ticket inspired by the building’s fascinating history.
At the end of the week, one lucky ticket holder will win:
- A complimentary Afternoon Tea for Two to enjoy on a future visit
- A bottle of prosecco
Guests will also be among the first to try an exclusive Afternoon Tea sweet creation designed by Cammy, available only during the celebration.
Whether you’re visiting Royal Deeside, exploring Ballater or looking for an indulgent afternoon with genuine Highland hospitality, Rothesay Rooms is the perfect setting to relax and savour a timeless tradition.
Visit the Rothesay Rooms website for information and to book today.