Think about getting wrapped up by a sunny day as you walk through a blend of vivid colours. This is what leads up to the afternoon tea experience at Butchart Gardens. Guests can unwind in this place and enjoy a tradition that has been around for hundreds of years. The meaning behind this tea goes beyond sipping on tea—it’s an opportunity to cherish, surrounded by nature’s artistry.
If you are a tea lover, Butchart Gardens in Victoria is the perfect destination for you. I have been there and trust me the vibrant flowerbeds and the lush greenery there will drive you to some other world. Along with experiencing the floral beauty, you can also have a unique dining experience. Roam around, sit and relax, and have some great food or a tasty sip of tea.
Don’t Miss the Afternoon Tea at Butchart Gardens
When you walk into the Dining Room restaurant, you’ll notice that all of their decorations are from the early 20th century. The experience is meant to transport guests back in time to a much more sophisticated era. Every piece of your tea set is presented with such attention to detail that it’s hard not to be impressed by how much those putting on this event care about what they do. No matter if you’re into sweet or savoury foods, their menu has something for everyone. It’s filled with everything you could think of—pastries, chocolates, finger sandwiches—that would pair perfectly with whatever tea option you choose. They get most of their ingredients locally to add an extra level of flavour
High tea at Butchart Gardens doesn’t exclude anyone due to dietary restrictions. There are gluten-free meals on their menu so that way everyone can participate in this timeless tradition without feeling like they had anything less than others. Their high tea selection includes various finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries—all of which have been cooked with love and patience before being beautifully placed onto each plate at your table.
Some brews that they offer include Darjeeling and Black Hunan. But if you’re more of a coffee person, there are beans also available for brewing—guaranteeing a cup with strong flavour and layers. Customers who like to watch their sugar intake will be happy to know that the choice of having stevia as a sweetener was put in place after considering modern health-conscious preferences. You can also have your strawberries, blackberries, or the ice cream.
If you want to guarantee yourself a space in this sought-after activity, I highly recommend making reservations ahead of time. Spaces can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. The Butchart Gardens website will have all the information you need on how to reserve how long they’re open, when they’re open, and pricing. The afternoon tea service is one of their most popular attractions so make sure to book as soon in advance as possible! The prime season window for visiting is between April and September, but you can also witness a unique festive experience if you visit there in winter.
Notable Features and Garden Highlights
Aside from the delightful tea experience, Butchart Gardens also hosts several other attractions worth visiting! Before or after your tea guests have free range to explore The Sunken Garden, Rose Garden, and Japanese Garden. Each garden has its own story behind it which contributes to the overall magic of Butchart Gardens as a property as a whole. These gardens are not just here as a backdrop for some great food; they are integral to the entire experience!
Throughout the year Butchart Gardens hosts a wide variety of events for their visitors to partake in. From musical performances to holiday events, attending these occasions can give you a whole different experience of Butchart Gardens that enhances your afternoon tea experience. If you love customizations, then the tea at the Butchart Gardens is definitely for you. When making reservations let them know what occasion it is or what you’re celebrating. This way they’ll be able to add special touches to your tea service that will make it extra memorable.
Whether you’re a resident or travelled far just for this one occasion, this enchanting event serves as a treat and a reminder that life is too short not to enjoy elegance and luxury once in a while. With every bite and every sip of the afternoon tea, guests are further reminded of why Butchart Gardens has been able to hold onto its reputation as a sanctuary for tranquillity and refinement all these generations later.
Last Updated on April 4, 2024 by Pragya Chakrapani