Downton Abbey-inspired Afternoon tea at the Townsend: Luxurious setting and delicious treats perfect for celebrating!

Rachel-Rose & Barb surrounded by the luxurious ambiance of the Townsend tea lobby

With a luxuriously appointed tea lobby befitting of the Crawley estate and outstanding service that would make Carson jealous, Birmingham's Townsend Hotel is the perfect place for a Downton Abbey-inspired afternoon tea. Barb's Tea Service was delighted to present our Downton Abbey program last Sunday to over forty guests.

Guests arrive and find their seats under the crystal chandelier

Attendees were seated at the long table under the crystal chandelier or one of the round tables along the decoratively painted walls. Many guests, in addition to being Downton Abbey enthusiasts, chose the event to honor special occasions as well. What a fantastic way to celebrate and what a  treat to be part of that!

Roses and fruit plates on the table, ready for guests' arrival.

Some guests had called us before the tea, after seeing the 'Say Good-bye to Downton with a proper afternoon tea' article in the Detroit Free Press which featured BTS. We were so happy to see that Daisy Lucente and her good friends, Susan Cash and June Whittled were able to make it!

June Whittled, Susan Cash and Daisy Lucente celebrate at the afternoon tea

As we discussed the Edwardian influences on the British aristocracy, our visit to Highclere Castle and the importance of dress to both the upstairs and downstairs families, guests were treated to delicioius scones, savories, sweets and never-ending pots of finely brewed tea. A few who were celebrating birthdays were served up an extra dessert.

Ruth Mayhall with Illene Lipiski

A great time with Downton Abbey-ites: a fun afternoon with girlfriends, husbands and wives and mothers and daughters.

Sandy Dionsi & Anne Dunlap. Anne not happy with the series' finale.

Although all who were at the event shared a solidarity in being Downton Abbey fans, there was some lively discussion after the formal presentation as to whether the series ending met expectations.

Another fabulous tea at the Townsend Hotel. A thank you to Tea Director, Laura, and all the amazing ladies and gents who attended!!

We're not quite done saying farewell to Downton. See our events page on Barb's Tea Service's website for more upcoming tea events!