Calderwood House

An Afternoon Tea Experience

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Sometimes, the only therapy you need is afternoon tea with friends

It’s said that Anna Russell, the seventh Duchess of Bedford, invented Afternoon Tea in 1840 to satisfy her during the long wait between lunch and dinner. Like the Duchess, I too have indulged in a few afternoon treats which I have now been inspired to share with you. Join me at Calderwood House where an exquisite experience for your pleasure awaits.

Nestled in the charming village of Orono, our Ontario Gothic Revival farmhouse has been a labour of love, renovated and decorated to maintain a sense of tradition. You will feel more than welcome as you wander through our home. Built in 1899, Calderwood House is set on a 1/4 acre, backing onto a forest, filled with rose gardens, a frog pond, fountain features, perennial flowers and, most beloved of all, our infinity Moongate.

Prepared in my own family kitchen, be tempted with traditional sweet and savoury fare. Sit and enjoy the propriety and civility of this the quaintest of English dining customs; an afternoon treat of tea, finger sandwiches, traditional scones, and cakes. Select from an array of teas from India and China. Or enjoy a fruity infusion of hibiscus and rosehip.

Informality in a formal setting is encouraged! As are girlie giggles and picture poses, so feel free to play dress-up and delve into my tickle trunk of fancy fascinator hats, formal ladies’ hats, and gloves and get ready for a photo shoot! More than merely afternoon tea, this is an experience!

Sandwiches, Savouries & Sweets

A Selection of Teas

 On behalf of my sorority sisters, I want to thank you, Diana, and your husband so much for your hospitality this afternoon. Your enthusiasm was such a treat especially on a dreary day. We enjoyed every aspect of our time spend in your home for our tea party and photo session. Your attention to detail surpasses anything I have ever attended. The food was absolutely divine. No one could pick a favourite because they loved it all. Again many, many thanks for such a fabulous time. Margaret (on behalf of Laureate Epsilon Tau Oshawa chapter of Beta Sigma Phi. ) 

Margaret Riess

 Thank you so much for a marvelous time yesterday! It was lovely to see your stunning home, and enjoy the luscious food and tea! From the lemon-tarts with basil, to the pink deviled eggs, and the divine curried chicken tea sandwich-- not to mention the delicious scones with jam (which I must admit, I added a dreamy amount of clotted cream to!! :) I can speak for my mom, sister, and I when I say that it was a truly treasured experience. Sincerely Keara 

Keara Irwin

 My friends and I thoroughly enjoyed afternoon tea in your amazing Calderwood House. We had a nice chat with your husband & he gave us a brief story about how you started the Tea Room. I think you took the best advice from all your friends who were your first “guests” & not only created a High Tea but a “Unique Experience” for your guests. I have been to a few Afternoon Teas but have never had “the experience “ you provide. Your warm & welcoming personality puts everyone at ease & ready to enjoy something very special. Your house is picture perfect & decorated with love. I’ll be back with my friends from Peterborough. It's an experience that needs to be shared Have a wonderful well deserved holiday. Thank for sharing your slice of heaven with us 

Linda Parker

 Dear Diana and Graham, Thank you for a truly memorable tea and home viewing. On the drive from Toronto I was thinking, “Why am I driving 50 minutes to spend time with my cousins who live 10 minutes from me, especially when there are so many sweet eat spots in Toronto?” The answer is “You really only know when you get there.” Your home and tea are exceptionally thoughtful. Nothing is overlooked. It would not be possible to capture the essence of casual-chic-country-classy in any urban environment. The space between the city and your home is a must. It allows one to shake off the tasks, breath deeply, and relax into pure pleasure. Artisitic, delicious, and delightful. The pictures are the crowning accomplishment to a perfect afternoon. So glad you followed your hearts! All the best, Colette (Visited May 6, 2023) Not that you need it, but I’m spreading the word! 

Colette Kim

 I have been telling EVERYONE I know that they have to come and take tea with you. It was simply the very best time. Your home is gorgeous, your food was divine (I could have eaten an entire plate of the Swedish sandwiches alone!!), the attention to detail is just amazing. A thoroughly delightful day indeed. CANNOT say enough about the experience. 

Catherine Chamberlain

 Not your everyday afternoon tea... It's a tea party 🎉👒 come and enjoy your mini photo shoot along with a lovely afternoon of tea and goodies 😋 

Kim Miller

 Last Saturday, 12 of us celebrated a special birthday for one of our friends, and had a High Tea experience like never before!! I love going for High Tea and have gone numerous times to the King Edward Hotel, The Windsor Arms (both in Toronto) and the Prince of Wales in Niagara-on-the-Lake but none of them compare to the welcoming atmosphere, unique decor, elegance, personal attention, or the most delicious food that was provided by our fabulous host, Diana, and Graham, her wonderful husband. Thank you Diana for providing us with this unique experience and memorable photos in you spectacular home. I loved it so much and want to share it with more of my friends that I am booked for three more tea parties. So hurry - book your appointment because spots fill up quickly! 

Susan MacLennan

 My friends and I had the most wonderful experience at Calderwood House in Orono for a traditional Afternoon Tea. From the moment you walk into their beautiful home, Diana and Graham make you feel so welcome. The delicious fare with exquisite presentation, delicious tea assortment and exceptional attention to detail makes for an amazing afternoon. Diana spends so much time making your experience memorable. From touring her magazine-worthy home to fun photo shoots with hats and fascinators and boas! Thank you both for offering such a wonderful afternoon tea experience. 

Ida McKnight

 "Thank you, thank you, thank you for the most beautiful afternoon. Our group had a wonderful time at your tea-house. From the delicious food creations, the lovely tea selection, the beautiful home tour, the super fun photo shoot and amazing hospitality. – Calderwood House absolutely did not disappoint. What a perfect way to spend an afternoon. Looking forward to seeing you both again soon." 

Kimberli Jordan

 I have just left Calderwood House, stuffed with all the delicious treats and still smiling from all the laughter; you'll never find a more welcoming host that lets you enjoy not only your tea but her home ... you won't feel like a guest but rather a bestie that can slip away without helping with the dishes. Diana, we will certainly be back, thank you for a wonderful evening. 

Karen Moore

 What an amazing experience! We had the most fantastic day at Calderwood House. So happy to have so many photos as keepsakes. The tea and food was fabulous, and Diana and her husband are wonderful and make you feel at home! 

Natasha Bowman

 Spectacular decor and experience with friends!!! The tea and food were delightful. Lots of fun was had. Great memories were made. 

Lisa Trepanier

 Twelve members of the Whitby/Brooklin Probus club enjoyed a fabulous afternoon tea on February 9th, Diana is a wonderful hostess and made us very welcome. The sandwiches and desserts were amazing, We had lots of fun dressing up in fancy hats and having photos taken in every room which are decorated beautifully - very comfy and cozy. Highly recommend going to this lovely century home. I know I will definitely be taking our group back again. Can't wait! 

Pamela Hand
Whitby/Brooklin Probus Club

 Had an absolutely lovely afternoon at the Calderwood House celebrating my mother's birthday! Diana is perfection as a hostess, her house is beautiful top to bottom, the teas and treats were divine - I couldn't recommend it more! 

Kim Dayman

 The tea experience is outstanding ... a delicious variety of teas, tasty finger sandwiches and dessert niceties! Amazing hospitality; warm and entertaining hostess, above all, light and fun! Decor is absolutely spectacular! This is a precious tea experience filled with fun, laughter and elegance that will remain a beautiful memory for all who share! 

Liz Rankin

 I cannot say enough wonderful things about our Christmas tea at Calderwood House. The Bigioni girls go for high tea together once a year over the holidays and this was by far the most special one yet, all thanks to Diana. Every detail was simply perfection and Diana made us feel so welcome in her beautiful home. This is a MUST do. We will be back again and again. 

Mackenzie Bigioni

 My hubby & I had such a wonderful time at Calderwood House! We didn't quite know what to expect. Hubby wasn't even sure he wanted to go! But we had a blast! Others have talked about all the yummy food & the fantastic decor ... I want to give my review a different twist. People. women AND men ... bring your sense of wonder & your friendliness & above all, your sense of humour. Come on guys, have FUN! By combining all those elements, your Calderwood High Tea will become a Calderwood High Time as well. Thank you Diana for opening your beautiful home to is & providing is with pics of the hilarious, memorable evening we spent with you. 

Evelyn Roberge-Pellerin

 Most creative, delicious high tea I've ever had. Beautiful atmosphere in this delightful century home. Every detail has been thought of. Diana is a very friendly, fun host who will put a smile on your face. Her talents are limitless and sure to impress. Treat yourself to this wonderful, unique experience. 

Jackie Hirst Smith

 I honestly can't say enough about the food. The service, the selections of teas, all ahhh-mazing!!! And the decor ... OMG ... if you love Christmas, you NEED to tour this house. 21 Christmas trees!!!! Every room like a picture from a magazine. 

Tracy Beesley

 So much fun! Call up your girlfriends and go visit Diana. The tea and treats were fantastic! The house was decorated beautifully and so much fun to look through; and the photos afterwards were so much fun! Thank you for your superior hospitality! 

Anonymous

Saturdays and Sundays only at 1:00pm

CHRISTMAS 2024 
Our Christmas season continues to the end of January and we have availability for 2 guests on the following dates, all at 4.00 pm:
NOVEMBER
Wednesday November 27
DECEMBER
Fully booked
JANUARY
Wednesday January 15th                              Saturday January 18th
Sunday January 19th                                    Thursday January 23rd
Saturday January 25th

BOTH VALENTINE'S DAY AND MOTHER'S DAY 2025 (May 10th/11th) ARE SOLD OUT.  
Our Christmas 2025 season is getting booked up: November and December weekend dates are already 75% sold;

TO REQUEST A RESERVATION, PLEASE USE THE "CONTACT US" FORM ON THE FOLLOWING PAGE,
INCLUDING PREFERRED DATES AND THE NUMBER OF GUESTS.
AVAILABILITY imageAVAILABILITY image
  • Calderwood House 4 North Mill Lane, Orono ON L0B 1M0
  • We are open on Saturdays and Sundays, and occasionally one day mid-week

We are taking reservations for 2025 for mid-February onwards Check our "Availability" page for availability and cancellations. Request your reservation using the Contact Us form. Unfortunately, we do not offer a dairy-free and/or vegan option. PLEASE NOTE: this is an ADULTS ONLY (12+) experience