As silly as this might sound, the magnificent Pendray Inn & Tea House is the perfect reason, all by itself, and my motivation for visiting Victoria, British Columbia.
This ultra-charming establishment, with its long and rich history, was truly the highlight of my visit to Victoria. I hoped for the quintessentially British, traditional, High Tea Service. However, in the end, I experienced far greater surprises than I expected.
Knowing I wanted to have the finest tea experience, being a travel writer, I searched every tearoom in Victoria. Through my rigorous research, I discovered that the Pendray tea service was hands down, more intriguing than all the other tearooms in the city. It was by far (mirror, mirror on the wall) the most enchanting of them all. I found it so very elegant and classy, with its unique, unpretentious, tranquil ambiance, and style.
Walking into the Pendray Inn Tea house felt like stepping back in time and walking right into a storybook fairytale. I knew immediately I was in a very special establishment. Built in the 19th century, with its spectacular old-world rich woodwork, colorful accents, original stained glass windows, antique furnishings, lovely vistas, and crystal chandeliers, I thought it was absolutely a vision to behold.
The Inn is the ideal destination to celebrate every special occasion. Such as a get together with old friends, a daughter-and-me day, a baby shower, a wedding shower, a birthday, or an anniversary. Honestly, any occasion at all would be enhanced relaxing in this elegant, serene tearoom, while devouring all the delectable treats. It’s quite magical!
With impeccable service, I enjoyed the most delightfully authentic teatime splendor, escaping the hustle & bustle of the outside world. Oh my, how amazing all of the homemade delectable scones, the savory mouthwatering tea sandwiches, and the scrumptiously awesome sweets tasted. The Pendray offers a huge selection of fine teas from around the globe, served piping hot. I’d be remiss if I forgot to include the luxury glass of sparkling wine. The service was presented on beautiful traditional china, which made the table appear even more stunning. This experience is truly a foodie’s paradise!
Long before it was a bed-and-breakfast, the mansion was once a splendid family home built by the legendary William Joseph and Amelia Jane Pendray. To this very day, the couple is still admired for their many noted accomplishments.
The Inn offers 9 lovingly restored guestrooms and suites, each one decorated with its own fabulous flair and design. This is a very popular place, far & away more unique and exclusive than all the hotels in the area, so they do sell out quickly. Because there are very few rooms, I suggest you book well in advance so as not to be disappointed.
Although the Pendray is an old-world classic Inn, it boasts all the modern-day comforts, such as complimentary Wi-Fi access, flat-screen HD televisions, and en-suite private washrooms to ensure a marvelous stay. Each morning you can enjoy a delicious breakfast overlooking the Inn’s meticulously gorgeous gardens. I’m struggling for a word more charismatic than charming. Perhaps Victorian timeless elegance and historic grandeur would be fitting. The photo (left above) was the beloved couple’s master bedroom. Some claim Mr. Pendray loved it here so much that his ghost remains eternally.
The Pendray Inn is an iconic fixture located on Victoria’s scenic Inner Harbor, only a short walk from the center of town. I cannot possibly recommend a more fascinating, alluring, and bewitching environment for tea, a lovely stress-free time out from your everyday life, or a special romantic getaway to remember…
If you are ever in the lovely city of Victoria, there are many exciting and wonderful things to do. Nevertheless, do make it a point to drop in and experience this lovely establishment and all it has to offer. You will be very happy you did, for sure!
I would like to thank Jan and Meagan for their cordial help, assistance, and hospitality in making this article possible. Your great passion and love for the Inn is evident and clearly understandable. Your Tea Service is what dreams are made of!
I rate The Pendray Inn & Tea House…
A perfect “A+ and a resounding BRAVO!”
Pendray Inn & Tea House Book Here
309 Belleville Street Victoria, B.C., V8V 1X2
Phone: 1 (250) 388-3892
Email: info@pendrayinnandteahouse.com
