Escape Sandton’s skyscrapers and malls for a traditional high tea at Fairlawns, a luxurious boutique hotel and spa hidden away in a quiet corner of Morningside. The rush of the concrete jungle will seem a million miles away at this country manor-style hotel, where tranquillity comes standard. 

High Tea is served in the pretty Manor House Bistro, a vibrantly decorated space filled with a quirky collection of antique porcelains, beautiful flower arrangements and chic contemporary South African ceramic design pieces. Tall French windows and doors line one wall overlooking the hotel's picturesque gardens and pool area. If the weather is willing High Tea can also be enjoyed on the bistro terrace.

The style is classic English afternoon tea with a choice of smoked salmon, egg mayonnaise and, of course, cucumber ribbon sandwiches all delicately tied up and served with a bow made from chives. Then onto the sweets, a tiered cake stand serving up miniature citrus pavlovas topped with a perfect little swirl of meringue, dense and rich chocolate brownies, profiteroles, dainty macarons and pretty red velvet cupcakes with moreish icing. 

A glass-fronted armoire contains all the accessories needed for a piping hot cup of tea and your tea ‘sommelier’ will guide you on how long you should let you loose leaf tea draw. Of course a timer is provided. The tea selection is noteworthy and will please all tea lovers. We recommend the Japanese Cherry Blossom Green Tea, a crisp choice that contrasts nicely with the sweet treats. 

Lovely as an intimate venue for tea for two or for a small celebration with friends at a round table designed for good conversation.