The Empress

High tea evolved from the custom of ladies of the Victorian era taking a mid-afternoon respite to an elegant and formalized excuse to showcase one’s finery while entertaining friends. High tea was traditionally more of an evening meal; today’s high tea experience showcases dainty tea sandwiches, specialty teas, elegant finger sweets, scones with clotted cream and lemon curd. Today it’s an opportunity to don one’s gloves and pull out grandmother’s china, crystal or silver, and have a time set aside to focus on ourselves and our friends. In this day of instant everything, we’re offering a special experience in an elegant Victorian atmosphere designed to calm the mind and foster relationships. Victorian High Tea accompanied by your host’s warm hospitality is a hallmark at The Empress. Call us to help you plan a delightful event for yourself or your local ladies’ group and enjoy one of our delightful tea and tour events at The Empress.

Grand High Tea -Sundays at 3:00 p.m. by reservation only
Capture the essence of the traditional high tea with all the pomp and circumstance of Grandmothers day. Everything is handmade in our kitchen and includes our specialty hot tea, three specialty desserts; three gourmet finger sandwiches, Empress scones, clotted cream and fresh fruit! Served in the formal dining room with candlelight and Victorian music. Wear your hat and gloves, the occasion warrants it!! After tea, enjoy a detailed historical tour of The Empress and all of her owners from the early 1800′s to present time.

• $40.00 per person / $45.00 per person on holidays

Group Grand High Tea

• $40.00 per person / $45.00 per person on holidays
• Weekdays- 10 person minimum (30 people maximum)
• Weekends- 12 person minimum (30 people maximum)
• Holiday Prices Vary

Group Tea & Tour
Enjoy Irish Raisin Scones, clotted cream, lemon curd, and our specialty hot tea, served in a silver server with all the “Victorian” touches. After tea, enjoy an hour-long historical tour of The Empress.

• Weekdays: $20.00 per person / $25.00 per person on holidays. 6 person minimum (50 people maximum)
• Weekends: $20.00 per person / $25.00 per person on holidays, plus $200 usage fee. 12 person minimum (50 people maximum)
• Holiday prices can vary

Historical Tours Only

• Groups and Bus Tours welcome, call for details: (877) 374-7966.
• The Empress is open year ‘around for “drop in” tours, Monday-Friday at 11:30 am and 3:00 pm, weekends by appointment only.
• Cost is $7.50 per person ($10.00 per person during December.)
• Please call to reserve a time for a private tour or a tour for large groups.