Best Santa in the Peak District Returns for Afternoon Tea!

Father Christmas is flying back to the Peak District this December for a magical Afternoon Tea at two beloved venues: The Maynard and The George Hathersage. Both venues, owned by the independent hospitality group Longbow Bars & Restaurants, are excited to announce this special festive event for the first time, following the huge success of last year’s Breakfast with Santa, which sold out within days.

The much-loved Santa, hailed as the jolliest and most authentic by customers and staff alike, will make his first stop at The George, a charming 500-year-old coaching inn, once visited by Charlotte Brontë herself. Santa will be hosting afternoon tea on Saturday 14th December, with sittings at 1:00pm and 2:30pm.

After spreading cheer at The George, Santa will make his way to The Maynard, a historic Edwardian hotel nestled in the Hope Valley. Guests can enjoy afternoon tea with Santa on Saturday 21st December, with two sittings at 1:00pm and 2:30pm.

A Festive Feast for All Ages

Adults can look forward to a traditional festive spread, featuring locally sourced roasted turkey, ham, and pigs in blankets, alongside classic smoked salmon, cucumber, and cream cheese sandwiches. Sweet treats will include Christmas cake, mini winter berry pavlovas, brownies, and cranberry scones served with clotted cream and jam.

Children will be treated to a menu tailored just for them, with ham sandwiches on bloomer bread, pigs in blankets with tomato sauce, chocolate scones with Nutella and clotted cream, brownies, and gingerbread men. All cakes, scones, and treats are handmade by the talented pastry chefs at The George and The Maynard, using locally sourced ingredients.

A Magical Visit with Santa

After tea, children will have the chance to meet Father Christmas himself, share their Christmas wishes, snap a festive photo, and receive a special selection box gift. Santa, thrilled to be returning to the Peak District, said, “Ho ho ho! I had such a wonderful time last year that I just had to come back. I can’t wait to hear what the children are wishing for this Christmas while relaxing by the fire in these cosy, historic venues. I’m also hoping to sneak in a Peak District turkey sandwich!”

Get into the Christmas Spirit

Rob Hattersley, owner of Longbow Bars & Restaurants, added, “Last year was truly magical – it brought back the Christmas spirit of our own childhoods. We’re excited to welcome families from near and far to enjoy this festive event. Our Santa is the best in the business, and we can’t wait to see the joy on the children’s faces.”

Joining Santa will be Sparkle and Sprout, the mischievous elves who were a hit during last year’s breakfast events. Auditions for additional elf assistants are being held in the run-up to Christmas, with updates shared on The Maynard and The George’s social media.

In addition to the Afternoon Tea events, The Maynard will also be hosting Breakfast with Santa on Saturday 14th and Saturday 21st December. Tickets for Afternoon Tea with Santa are priced at £25 per adult and £12.50 per child, including a selection box for the little ones. Be sure to book soon, as these festive events are likely to sell out quickly!