Afternoon Tea Inside Britain’s Most Extraordinary Home – Talliston House, Essex

Looking for one of the best afternoon teas in Essex? You might not expect to find it hidden inside a regular semi-detached house in Great Dunmow. Experience an afternoon tea inside Britain’s most extraordinary home – Talliston House and you’re in for something completely unexpected. This is why Talliston House absolutely deserves a place on my list of Best Afternoon Teas in Essex. You are in for a real treat.

This is not just afternoon tea, it’s an experience. Candlelight, storytelling, historic interiors and homemade food all come together inside Talliston House and Gardens, one of Essex’s most unusual and inspiring hidden gems. Every so often, you visit somewhere that completely catches you off guard. Talliston House is that kind of place, it stays with you, long after you leave.

Before we get to the fascinating story of the house and its creator, let’s talk about the afternoon tea itself, because it’s genuinely one of the most interesting, incredible and quirky afternoon teas you’ll ever experience in Essex.

A Unique Afternoon Tea Experience in Essex

Afternoon tea at Talliston isn’t just a bite to eat, it’s part of a much wider experience. You’re seated in the Keep’s Chapel, a Victorian watchtower set in the year 1887. The room is full of character, candlelight, carved furniture, rich textures and layers of detail. It’s atmospheric and the perfect setting to enjoy your afternoon tea. Expect beautiful china and food to match!

The food is prepared by Meadow Hill Deli in nearby Great Dunmow and it’s clear a lot of care goes into both the preparation and flavours. The menu begins with a choice of sandwich fillings. You pick your own from a short list when booking. This adds a nice personalised touch and it’s handy for groups so everyone gets something they’ll enjoy. The options include Coronation Chicken, Ham and Piccalilli, Smoked Salmon and others, including vegetarian and gluten free choices with wraps or alternative breads.

A real highlight is the quiche. You’re served half a slice each and the flavours were surprisingly bold and well balanced. Ours were Leek and Potato and Tomato and Feta, both packed with flavour and absolutely delicious!

Then came the scones, served warm with clotted cream and your choice of jam. The tea finishes with a generous slice of homemade cake, great to round off the experience. You’re also served a pot of tea, filter coffee or a herbal infusions tea. I highly recommend just sitting back and soaking in the candlelit surroundings while you sip. It’s peaceful, intimate and unlike anywhere else.

Exploring Talliston House & Gardens

If you decide to add on the full tour, you’ll be taken around the house room by room and that’s where things really open up. Each space is designed to reflect a specific time and place, all imagined and brought to life in intricate detail. If you don’t add on the tour, you get to experience the house at your leisure. Experiences last around 3 hours.

You might step into a Canadian log cabin, a Japanese submarine, a New York writer’s study or a gothic Scottish castle. Each room ignites a feeling, completely distinct, both in terms of setting, atmosphere, scent and even sound.

Every object, surface and sound has been carefully sourced or styled to support that theme. It’s a completely immersive experience and it definitely makes you pause and look more closely.

The Vision Behind It: John Tarrow

What makes all of this even more amazing is that it was created by just one person, John Tarrow. He is indeed the Wizard of Talliston House & Gardens. One of the most interesting people I have ever had the pleasure to meet, with a remarkable imagination, bringing Talliston to life.

John purchased the property in 1990 and spent more than 25 years transforming it, one room at a time. He’s not a designer by trade but a writer and storyteller with a strong sense of imagination and attention to detail. Everything in the house has been sourced individually during his travels and placed with intent.

John also leads the tours himself. His knowledge of each room’s concept, contents and backstory brings the place to life in a way that’s hard to replicate. Listening to him explain the purpose behind each design decision adds a whole extra layer to the experience. You can even purchase a copy of one of his books to take with you!

Final Thoughts

Talliston is difficult to explain, you really just need to go and experience the magic for yourself, it is like being inside the pages of a book. The afternoon tea is relaxed, well thought out and a great excuse to see the house, but the whole visit is about more than just food. It’s magical, completely unexpected and one of the most unforgettable experiences I’ve ever had. Easily my favourite afternoon tea experience in Essex. Talliston House is unlike any other venue offering afternoon tea in Essex.

If you’re looking for something different to do in Essex, especially if you enjoy afternoon tea, storytelling or historical settings, it’s absolutely worth booking. A day out and an afternoon tea in one! Perfection. Add it to your list of must-visit afternoon teas in Essex.

• Talliston House and Gardens, Great Dunmow, Essex
• Afternoon Tea: £44.95 per person. Minimum 2 people weekdays or 4 people weekends.
• Full tours available as an optional extra – £35 for the group
• Visit the official site for more information.

Thank you for reading ‘Afternoon Tea Inside Britain’s Most Extraordinary Home – Talliston House & Gardens’. Written in collaboration with Talliston House but all thoughts and opinions are strictly my own.