Calling all lovers of Christmas! You’ve finished meticulously decking your halls and finalising your festive preparations, so now is the time for – you - to be treated. The Festive Afternoon Tea at The Guardsman will do just that, as it’s a journey through some of the best loved Christmas traditions, without you having to lift a finger.

There are two dining areas – the library and drawing room. The library upstairs in hues of burnt orange, gold and grey, evokes a cosy and luxurious atmosphere, with velvet sofas and comfortable armchairs. Down the glass spiral staircase is the bright and airy main dining space, finished with a chic bar area.

Visiting The Guardsman is like arriving home. You’re immediately made to feel welcomed, and the team seem to have a second sense of what you need. The Festive Afternoon Tea is complemented with a glass of Mumm Cordon Rouge Champagne, which we kicked off festivities with, whilst perusing the tea menu. There are all the usual suspects like English Breakfast and Earl Grey, with extensive herbal options along with coffees or hot chocolate, if you would prefer.

Afternoon Tea is served on an elegant two-tiered stand, one per guest, thus eliminating any arguments over who gets the better-looking finger sandwich.

The smoked salmon blini and mushroom tart have reminisces of the nibbles you have on Christmas day with a glass of Champagne, except fantastically fancy versions. Scottish smoked salmon is served on the lightest blini with pickled cucumber and caviar. The warm mushroom tart is comprised of wild mushrooms and truffles with red pepper. Representing the cheeseboard that somehow you find room for after Christmas dinner – a Somerset brie, cranberry and baby spinach finger sandwich on soft sourdough bread.

The turkey and stuffing sandwich - the main event. Which is, depending on how you look at it, either Christmas dinner or in my opinion, the late-night sandwich assembled from leftovers, to be enjoyed in the soft glow of the last of the Christmas Day films.

There are orange and cranberry scones– as well as plain for the purists. Whatever your preference, each is wonderfully buttery yet light. Served with Devonshire clotted cream (so you’re putting the cream on before the jam), creamy and zesty lemon curd and strawberry preserve.

Is it present opening before or after Christmas lunch? The debate rages on. With your own personal stand, you can have it your way without compromising! The soft Christmas cake layered with almond makes you rethink your stance on not liking Christmas cake.

When faced with the adorable white chocolate and chestnut snowman, you’re not quite sure how to approach eating it - he’s too cute! Whichever way you choose, the sumptuous flavours of the white chocolate outer combined with the fluffiest chocolate and chestnut mousse make you soon forget the trouble.

The chocolate orange ‘bauble’ balances rich cocoa flavours immaculately with fresh citrus. The black forest Christmas tree is a delight too – especially finding the cherry at the centre.

The Festive Afternoon Tea at The Guardsman is the perfect celebration of Christmas. It is all of the joy of the holiday season without the distraction of hosting so you can properly catch up – and of course, no washing up.