Experience the history, mystique, and beauty of the Scottish Highlands this summer with TeaTime Editor Lorna Reeves and an intimate group of other tea enthusiasts. The bespoke adventure begins in Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital, before the group journeys up to Braemar in the Highlands, near Balmoral Castle, Queen Elizabeth II’s beloved vacation fortress, which was only opened to the public in 2024. After a guided tour of the storied castle, the group will partake of afternoon tea in the historic setting. Throughout the retreat, participants will have tea in other notable venues, including posh hotels, a historic library, and a magical forest, making for many teatime memories to treasure.

Accommodations are provided at five-star properties including The Balmoral and Fife Arms.

This retreat is limited to 20 participants.

Each registered participant will receive a one-year subscription to TeaTime. Current subscribers may choose to extend their subscription or gift it to someone special.

Check into the luxurious Balmoral hotel in Edinburgh, which will welcome us for a two-night stay. We’ll convene in its gorgeous Palm Court to partake in a welcome afternoon tea, meet fellow participants, and toast our exciting week to come.

Few things are more closely associated with Scotland than woven textiles, especially tartan plaid. A visit to the atelier of Araminta Campbell on the outskirts of Edinburgh will provide a fascinating glimpse into how its artisans are keeping the Scottish weaving heritage alive. Later in the day, we’ll savor afternoon tea together at the Colonnades at The Signet Library, which Jane Pettigrew called “one of the finest locations for afternoon tea in Edinburgh, possibly in the UK,” in an article she wrote for TeaTime. Since the sun doesn’t set until quite late during the summer months, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the capital city of Scotland before turning in for another good night’s sleep at The Balmoral.

After partaking of the sumptuous breakfast buffet at The Balmoral, we’ll depart Edinburgh en route to Braemar in the Highlands, stopping along the way for a guided tour of historic Blair Castle and time for shopping. After checking into our rooms at the storied Fife Arms hotel, we’ll enjoy a private afternoon tea in the venue’s Fog House, which takes decorative inspiration from summerhouses that are popular throughout Scotland. The remainder of the evening will be at your leisure to explore the hotel and surrounding area.

For today’s activities, we’ll divide into two groups to better enjoy the intimate experiences that are in store. One group will take the short drive to nearby Balmoral Castle for a guided tour in which we’ll discover why Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II, in particular, so loved this stately fortress and spent much time there. Naturally, the group will have afternoon tea at the castle before returning to Fife Arms. Meanwhile, the second group will have a private tour of our hotel’s impressive art collection before embarking on a guided visit to the charming village of Ballater. In the afternoon, we’ll have a magical outdoor picnic tea in the forest on Mar Lodge Estate. Both groups will comingle for a marvelous dinner at Fife Arms, our host hotel.

Groups will swap activities for today and will return to Fife Arms in time to enjoy another delicious dinner, where we’ll lift a toast to our special time together and share stories of our marvelous tea experiences.

Check out by 11:00 a.m., with a heart and suitcase brimming with lovely teatime memories.

• 2 nights at the five-star Balmoral Hotel

• 3 nights at the five-star Fife Arms Hotel

• Welcome afternoon tea at The Balmoral, featuring the hotel’s celebrated Palm Court experience

• Visit to Araminta Campbell atelier and insight into Scottish weaving heritage

• Afternoon tea at The Signet Library in Edinburgh

• Guided tour of Blair Castle with time for shopping

• Private afternoon tea at Fife Arms’ Fog House

• Guided tour of Balmoral Castle

• Private tour of Fife Arms’ art collection

• Guided visit to the charming village of Ballater

• Select group meals, including daily breakfasts, afternoon teas, and dinner at Fife Arms (Saturday & Sunday evenings)

• Transportation by private coach to and from schedule retreat activities

• Private round-trip airport transfers

• One-year subscription to TeaTime

• Airfare to and from Edinburgh

• Some meals

• 2 nights at the five-star Balmoral Hotel

• 3 nights at the five-star Fife Arms Hotel

• Some meals, including breakfast daily, afternoon teas, and dinners at Fife Arms Saturday and Sunday evenings

• Guided tour of Blair Castle

• Private round-trip airport transfers

• Airfare to and from Edinburgh

• Some meals

• Workshops and excursions

• One-year subscription to TeaTime

The Balmoral Hotel
The Balmoral hotel is a five-star landmark in the heart of Edinburgh, renowned for its elegant rooms, exceptional service, and iconic clock tower overlooking Princes Street. With the celebrated Palm Court for afternoon tea, Michelin-starred dining, and refined accommodations, The Balmoral provides a luxurious base from which to explore Scotland’s historic capital.

Fife Arms Hotel
Fife Arms hotel is a five-star heritage hotel in the village of Braemar, set amid the stunning landscapes of the Scottish Highlands. Housed in a storied building with beautifully restored interiors, the hotel features a renowned art collection, elegant guest rooms, and fine dining experiences. Its historic charm and warm hospitality make it the perfect retreat for immersing yourself in Highland culture and scenic beauty.

You’ll fly into Edinburgh Airport (EDI), which is serviced from most hubs in the United States and Europe. Transportation for all schedule retreat activities is included.

The TeaTime team is available to assist with travel planning and helping you find the best route. Email ttevents@hoffmanemedia.com for assistance.

Participant Single Occupancy

• $12,000 per Participant

• 1 Participant | 1 Private Hotel Room

Shared Participant Double Occupancy

• $10,500 per Participant

• 2 Participants | 1 Hotel Room

Participant & Travel Companion

• $14,500 per Participant & Travel Companion

• 1 Participant + Travel Companion | 1 Shared Hotel Room

• A 50% deposit is due within 48 hours of confirmation, along with signed travel waiver and cancellation policy acknowledgment

• The remaining 50% balance is due April 1, 2026

• Payments accepted: ACH direct deposit, Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, JCB, Diners Club, and Union Pay

• All prices are listed in U.S. dollars

All bookings for this retreat are final and nonrefundable under all circumstances. For this reason, we strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance that covers trip cancellation, interruption, illness, and other unexpected events. You agree that you will not initiate a charge-back or payment dispute for amounts properly charged in accordance with this policy.

If you choose not to purchase travel insurance, you understand and agree that you are responsible for all costs or losses related to trip interruptions.

Changes, Cancellations & Unforeseen Events

We are not responsible for expenses related to travel delays, cancellations, illness, injury, or other events beyond our control, including but not limited to weather, government actions, and airline or transportation issues.

In the event that we must cancel this retreat due to circumstances beyond our control, our liability will be limited to a refund of amounts paid to us, or a credit toward a future retreat, at our discretion. We are not responsible for additional expenses such as airfare, lodging, or other travel costs.

Health & Travel Risks

Travel involves inherent risks, including the risk of exposure to communicable illnesses. By booking this retreat, you acknowledge these risks and agree to assume responsibility for your own health and safety during the trip.

If you become ill during the retreat, particularly with a suspected or confirmed contagious condition, the group leaders may require you to modify or end your participation if they reasonably believe your presence poses a health or safety risk to other participants. In such cases, no refund or credit will be provided. 

Program Changes

Due to circumstances beyond our control, certain activities, instructors, services, or amenities may be modified, substituted, or unavailable. Such changes do not constitute grounds for a refund, but we will work tirelessly to make sure you have the best experience possible. 

Acknowledgment

By booking this retreat, you acknowledge that you have read, understand, and agree to this Trip Cancellation & Travel Risk Policy.

What airport should I fly into?
We recommend flying into Edinburgh Airport (EDI). Guests are responsible for arranging their own airfare.

Are airport transfers included?
Airport transfers are included.

Can I arrive early or extend my stay?
If you would like to inquire about additional nights at The Balmoral or Fife Arms, please email ttevents@hoffmanmedia.com. Requests for early check-in or late check-out will be made on your behalf but cannot be guaranteed.

Is breakfast included?
Daily breakfast is included at both hotels.

Are children able to attend this retreat? All participants must be 18 years old or older to attend this retreat.

Will there be free time during the retreat?
The itinerary has been thoughtfully designed to allow for leisure time in both Edinburgh and Braemar. Guests are encouraged to explore, relax, shop, or enjoy optional experiences such as spa services.

What should I pack for the retreat?
We recommend smart casual attire with comfortable walking shoes for sightseeing and excursions. For guided tours and outdoor activities, wear clothing suitable for changing weather. For afternoon tea at both Edinburgh venues, dressy or nice smart casual attire is preferred. For group dinners at Fife Arms, dressy or cocktail attire is encouraged.

Is this retreat suitable for guests with limited mobility?
Some activities include walking on uneven surfaces, historic sites, and outdoor paths. While we do our best to accommodate all guests, participants should be comfortable with moderate walking. Please contact ttevents@hoffmanmedia.com with specific questions or needs.

Are spa services included?
Spa services at Fife Arms Hotel are not included and must be booked separately. We recommend reserving treatments in advance due to limited availability.

Are meals included?
Select meals are included, such as afternoon teas and group dinners at Fife Arms. Most lunches and some dinners are on your own, allowing flexibility to explore local dining.

Is travel insurance required?
Travel insurance is not required but is strongly recommended. The retreat is nonrefundable, and travel insurance may help protect against unforeseen changes or interruptions.

Is this retreat limited in size?
This retreat is limited to 20 participants to ensure an intimate and enriching experience.

Will I receive a subscription to TeaTime?
Each registered participant will receive a one-year subscription to TeaTime. Current subscribers may choose to extend their subscription or gift it to someone special.

Who should I contact if I have questions?
Please email ttevents@hoffmanmedia.com with any questions about the retreat.