Having a relaxed afternoon of tea at Hillman’s Tearoom in Walthamstow is a delight. Regulars flock to this charming little shop from all over London, me soon to be one of them. It is a bit of a walk from the end station of the Victoria line and the stroll through the residential neighbourhood really does make you wonder if you are on your way to afternoon tea at a dear friend’s home. Owner Jason certainly makes you feel like it is (while still respecting your private conversation) and I can assure you that the long journey is definitely worthwhile.
The ambience and the scones are what make this afternoon tea stand out amongst many others. Being a bit picky with my scones, as I am no huge fan of them, the freshly-prepared and home-made ones served at Hillman’s Tearoom with just the right balance of softness and crunchiness and of course served warm, really did blow me away. Add to that the succulent strawberry jam and ever so clotty clotted cream, you will still be dreaming of them in weeks to come. And with the eccentric teaware and cosy feel of the room, you’ll want to bring back friends and family to show off your secret new discovery.
Be prepared not only for scrumptious scones but also a step back in time. Decorated in a 1930s/40s style, the tearoom features white tablecloths, 30s-style chandeliers, a TV showing black and white movies and a radio playing music from the period. Tea will arrive in delicate miss-matched china tea sets reminiscent of an era gone by where time was moving a little more slowly. The pastries (icing sugar cupcakes at the time) can also be bought at the counter, along with tea, cards and other treats. And the sandwiches include an assortment of salmon/cream cheese, cucumber, and cheese delights.
Don’t be surprised when you find yourself at 100 Wood Street and in front of a passageway named Georgian Village. No need to be shy, the village welcomes you. Allow yourself to be charmed by eccentric elegance, and blissfully indulge in mouth-watering scones. Oh sweet (and creamy) heaven!
Area: Walthamstow, Northeast London
Closest tube: Walthamstow Central (Victoria line)
Address: Hillman’s Tearoom
The Georgian Village
100 Wood Street
Walthamstow
London E17 3HX
Closed: Wednesdays
Website: http://www.hillmanstearoom.co.uk/
