Catherine Whyte has lots of original foodie gift ideas for Mother’s Day...
1. The Tea Terrace
Branches in Guildford and Cobham
If your mum is a fan of chintz and princess-chic then afternoon tea in one of The Tea Terrace’s golden Cinderella carriages is going to be a big hit. Early booking is essential though. If they are booked up for tea, remember that The Tea Terrace also opens for dinner.
2. The Gin Kitchen’s
The Gin Kitchen, Punchbowl Ln, Dorking RH5 4DX
A gift voucher to The Gin Kitchen’s gorgeous distillery could be just the (golden) ticket for a gin-loving mum. Dorking’s most famous boutique distillery hosts tours and tasting sessions upon request.
3. Hotel Chocolat
This cute, bite-sized set from Hotel Chocolat is sure to hit the spot. But if you are looking for something more substantial why not go for a behind-the-scenes Chocolate Lock-In! Guests are treated to a glass of bubbles and then a tasting session. A few more little surprises will be thrown in too. You’ll have to head up to London to book yourself on one of the Mother’s Day themed Lock-Ins that run from March 26-28 – the perfect excuse to make a day of it!
4. Cupsmith
If you frequent local Farmers’ Markets, you will have no doubt seen George Crawford from Cupsmith, Surrey’s locally-based hot drink specialists, manning his stall. I am a huge fan of Cupsmith’s Glorious Espresso coffee beans, but they also sell these wonderful presentation tea tins – a perfect gift for Mothering Sunday. Priced at £10 for 50 tea pyramids, they come in three different flavours: Calm Days (Camomile, Lemon Balm and Lavender); Lady May’s Earl Grey and Garden Mint.
5. Beaverbrook
Reigate Rd, Leatherhead KT22 8QX
Why not treat your mum to a gift voucher to spend at the luxurious Beaverbrook country estate hotel, near Leatherhead. She could treat herself to a beauty treatment at the newly-opened The Coach House spa (just next to the main house). Alternatively, she may wish to indulge in a fabulous afternoon tea in the cosy Dining Room or – if it’s warm enough – sit out on the fabulous terrace that overlooks the Surrey Hills.
