This review is purely for the High Tea service offered on weekends at Gledswood, I can't comment on their functions or other services.

I have attended High Tea here twice this past fortnight, having purchased two 2-for-1 vouchers from a popular bulk-discount website. Both experiences were highly disappointing but completely different. Both times I was unimpressed with the ambience. There is so much more they could do with the rustic room however the tables were oversized (you have to move your chairs a few feet closer together in order to have a conversation), the linens unattractive and there were no centrepieces or anything to make the place feel cosy (or upmarket, if that's what you expect of High Tea). The crockery is eclectic which suits the rustic theme but the platters are something you could pick up from a bargain store; it's certainly not silver service

The first time I attended with family, there were maybe half a dozen tables in the room (it was dead) but we still were not offered any of the so-called bottomless tea until we were halfway through the uninspired platter of mostly unattractive and bland morsels. We expected far more from a High Tea valued at $39pp particularly considering they offer High Tea at a number of establishments very close by in the same price range. There were fingernail impressions in the hastily cut sandwiches and the selection of tea was horrible (and merely tea bags available at the supermarket) plus most of the teas didn't suit the food being served. Far too many chamomile options if you ask me!

On my second visit (with a friend this time) the place was over-packed. They had obviously overbooked after selling a high volume of discount vouchers and could not cope with the volume of people. This made my friend and I question their ability to cope with large functions since very little of the food served was served hot, most being prepared in advance.

All bookings were for a 2pm seating so we expected everyone would be served around this time however it was about 3.15pm before our platter was presented and I had to ask that our tea (which had not been offered yet!) be served immediately as I was supposed to be home in 15 minutes time (I live locally). I was then informed they had run out of English Breakfast tea so had to wait for them to locate more.

The platter was even more disappointing this time and I was embarrassed for this local business I grew up with presenting themselves to greater Sydney by way of this 2-for-1 voucher, serving up party pies, amateur butter cream icing and sweets whose quality that you would expect to find for less than $2 at a basic suburban bakery. I think they had even run out if some foods as there was only one biscuit and three of the same tart on the top of the tray, rather than two of each. It was pretty awful and for the second time I was highly doubting the jam with the scones was of the "homemade" variety. Surely this, plus loose leaf tea of some repute or distinction, are the very basis of a reputable High Tea?

Even at the 2-for-1 price tag, and knowing I live within a few minutes drive of Gledswood, I can genuinely say I would not bother with a Gledswood High Tea ever again unless I hear that the "menu" has been overhauled or the establishment had been taken over by somebody who takes pride in the quality of food and sevice presented.

Approximate cost: $39