IT is Afternoon Tea Week (August 9-15) and what better way to mark the occasion than indulging at the Gardener's Cottage tearoom in Tatton Park.

The popular Cheshire-based National Trust site is not just one of the go-to places for a scenic walk, but also for treating yourself to a summer-themed afternoon tea.

Lord Egerton’s Afternoon Tea is now being served at The Gardener’s Cottage – what used to be the original head gardener's on-site cottage – with indoor seating available for the first time this year.

You can also dine alfresco in the fragrant gardens overlooking Tatton’s extensive orchards – which are now blooming with more than 100 varieties of apples, pears, and cherries.

Just as it has done for centuries, Tatton Park’s team of gardeners care for the Walled Kitchen Gardens and supply the chefs with fresh seasonal salads, vegetables, herbs, and fruits grown in the grounds.

This estate produce garnishes and adds flavour to a new savoury menu including cheddar cheese and herb muffins, traditional finger sandwiches and a selection of home baked cakes and pastries crafted by skilled pastry chefs.

Tatton’s head chef, Adam Arundel, said: "We’ve chosen the Walled Kitchen Garden’s fabulous rhubarb to give a unique, sweet flavour to our scones this summer.

"Visitors are also loving our blackberry and limeade Slice and melt-in-the-mouth, fresh fruit mini meringues."

To book an afternoon tea (which can even include a glass of bubbly), visit tattonpark.org.uk or call 01625 374469.