We do like a bit of an Afternoon Tea in the SOUTH WALES LIFE office. We’re no experts of course but give us nicely cut sandwiches, a big pot of tea, lots of cream filled goodies and of course, you must have a slice, or two of Bara Brith or some Welsh Cakes (one of our team has been known to demolish more than 2 or 3 in one sitting).

Over the next few weeks we’ll bring you a few ideas of where you can have a nice Afternoon Tea, without breaking the bank. First up is The Great House Hotel. It’s a beautiful grade II* listed building, a luxury 3 star hotel and it’s in Bridgend so you could combine it with a little trip to the beach or take in some shopping.

The building itself is spectacular dating from around 1550. It’s said to have been a gift from HRH Queen Elizabeth 1 to the Earl of Leicester who used it as a hunting lodge. Nice, all I get is a pair of socks as a gift. The hotel is located in the pretty conservation village of Laleston and The Great House is now one of the leading hotels in Bridgend. Located just 10 minutes from the seaside town of Porthcawl and 25 minutes equidistant between Cardiff and Swansea.

The Great House Hotel has 2 AA Rosette-awarded Leicester Restaurant where you can enjoy your Afternoon Tea in the historical setting filled with flagstone floors, inglenook fireplaces and oak beams. As you would expect, they really know how to treat you too with an elegant, traditional selection. You can enjoy homemade cakes and buttery shortbread, as well as scones with lashings of preserves and clotted cream, and fresh finger sandwiches.

The Great House is just 10 minutes from the seaside town of Porthcawl and 25 minutes between Cardiff and Swansea. For more details CLICK HERE.