A refined High Tea Experience at Brookfield house Camden

Recently, we ventured from Sydney to Camden to experience the renowned Brookfield House, an elegant destination that proudly holds the title of “Best High Tea House.” The journey from Sydney took approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes, with only minimal traffic as we exited the city.

Originally constructed in 1896 to accommodate permanent Army personnel, Brookfield House has since undergone an impressive restoration. Today, it stands as a beautifully preserved heritage landmark, transformed into an authentic English-style tea house. For those intrigued by its rich historical background, detailed information is available on-site or online.

Upon arrival, guests are greeted by an enchanting entrance that immediately sets a charming tone. We entered via the rear courtyard, though there is also a formal entrance at the front. Walking through the garden is a delight—fragrant roses, azaleas, and camellias line the path, accompanied by garden statues, a bay tree, and whimsical touches such as a blue butterfly chair (perfect for photos), an antique piano surrounded by greenery, and floral-themed signage. The atmosphere evokes a sense of stepping into a fairytale garden.

Inside, the interiors are equally captivating. Each room is adorned with elegant chandeliers and floral décor. The sunroom, aptly named the Garden Room, is spacious and flooded with natural light, enhancing the magical ambiance.

Guests are required to book in advance via the website, with the option to select from a variety of themed rooms:

The Garden Room
The 1896 Room
The Blue Room (our choice)
The Peacock Room (located upstairs – please note, no lift access)
The Verandah (outdoor seating)

The booking process is simple and user-friendly.

Our high tea experience began with warm, freshly baked scones that were wonderfully soft and buttery. While scones are undeniably filling, we recommend pacing yourself to fully enjoy the savoury and sweet courses that follow.

The savoury selection included:

Sweet potato bites
Mini beef tacos with relish and peas
Filo pastry filled with pork
Rocket and cucumber sandwiches

The desserts were exquisitely presented and equally delightful:

A delicate biscotti
A mini pavlova, shaped like an elegant crown
A moist and flavourful coconut cake

Each item was thoughtfully prepared and beautifully presented, with flavours that truly melted in the mouth.

Brookfield House also boasts an extensive tea menu spanning five pages, offering a diverse selection to suit all palates. We opted for the Turmeric Chai, which was light, aromatic, and well-balanced—neither overly strong nor sweet.

Accessibility is thoughtfully considered, with wheelchair access available via the rear entrance. However, please note that the upstairs Peacock Room is not accessible, as the venue does not have a lift.

In summary, our visit to Brookfield House was a delightful and worthwhile experience—an idyllic escape from Sydney, offering impeccable service, a serene atmosphere, and a high tea to remember. Remember to visit the Tea Shop if you go to Brookfield House.