Longleat is celebrating the return of its popular Emma’s Afternoon Tea on March 9th and 10th with a special Afternoon Tea in collaboration with Luminary Bakery, the London-based social enterprise which provides opportunities for women experiencing social and economic disadvantage.
Luminary Bakery team are baking 240 special mini cakes – one for every for visitor who books for the special Afternoon Tea across opening weekend - with plant-based or gluten-free options to cater for all requirements.
The inspiration for the cakes is the botanical artwork of Mary Delany (b. 1700, d. 1788), who lived at Longleat House as a teenager.
Mary’s art captured the attention of many of the luminaries of the day, including King George III and Queen Charlotte, who employed her to work at the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew at a time when it was very unusual for a female to be a working artist.
Her botanical illustrations and papercuts are some of the most treasured items in the Longleat collection.
Lady Bath, founder of Emma’s Kitchen at Longleat, said, “Our collaboration with Luminary Bakery celebrates women’s control over their own lives, which is particularly fitting given the fact that these special afternoon teas will be served to our visitors just after International Women’s Day and on Mothering Sunday.
“Over the years, Longleat House has been home to many women who have pushed boundaries, including Mary Delany, and it’s wonderful to be able to celebrate her beautiful artwork through Luminary’s magnificent cakes. I can’t wait to try one!” she added.
Leila Siassi, Managing Director of Luminary Bakery, expressed enthusiasm about highlighting Mary Delany's remarkable achievements through their baking.
She noted, "It's inspiring to honour the legacy of Mary Delany, a woman who achieved significant recognition and respect for her art during a time when female independence was rare.
“Collaborating with the team at Longleat to create cakes inspired by her work for this special afternoon tea has been an incredibly positive experience.
“We're excited for guests to enjoy our creations during the opening weekend and celebrate the empowerment of women through history and today,” she added.
Results from the Luminary Bakery Impact report show that, of the women who completed their two-year programme in 2023, 96 per cent had reached independence and 89 per cent were in Employment, Education, Volunteering or Training.
• Emma’s Kitchen Afternoon Tea in the Orangery at Longleat is £29.50. For more information and to book please visit www.longleat.co.uk/things-to-do/eating-and-drinking
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