The Gunners BarracksEnd of Suakin Drive
Georges Heights (near Mosman), Sydney
It's hard to put into words just how picturesque this place really is. With sweeping views out across the harbour is easy to see why this is so popular for weddings and special occasions. There are also the lovely walks in the surrounding bushland too - with many people working up an appetite by doing this first, or working off their food afterwards with a stroll in nature.
But it always seems to come back to those views and of course the charm of the building, the area and the history associated with it all.
This was a real gunners barracks. Constructed in 1873 it was the last military building in Sydney made entirely of stone. It was built to last - and it has!
Of course when you think of high tea you often associate it with champagne - and you won't be disappointed here. After we were greeted and seated at The Gunners Barracks we were greeted again with two glasses of lovely bubbles.Somehow sipping champagne in a lovely historic building with fine china on the table and sweeping views of the harbour and they yacht races seems so ....... wonderful.
Then of course there was the actual high tea that arrived a short while later.
The beautiful three tiered stand of fine bone china was adorned with delicious goodies on each layer. A separate plate had even more treats - light and fluffy freshly baked scones (with a side of double cream and home made jam), tasty mimosas with raita dipping sauce and cute mushroom tarts.
The bottom layer of the stand had finger sandwiches - egg and mayonnaise, salmon with cream cheese and cucumber and finally tender roast beef.
The top two layers had the sweet goodies like a very light almond slice, a beautiful rhubarb panna cotta topped with crumble, salted caramel macarons, chocolate slice with raspberry (chocolate heaven) and a lovely light fluffy and creamy passionfruit cheesecake. It was sweet eaters delight.
High Tea also includes tea - naturally - and there are so many choices of different tea's here the hardest decision you need to make is which one to actually have.Mlady had her favourite - English breakfast tea - and wasn't disappointed.
Sir decided to be a bit adventurous and had the fragrant vanilla tea which he had black and adored.
The Gunners Barracks is a sophisticated and elegant place, with spectacular views and food to match this. Its great for couples or groups. Its outdoor balcony is lovely but they also have a beautiful indoor area too.
Even though it's a big place - seating around 350 - it is understandably very popular - so make sure you book. It's so worth visiting!
Sir and Mlady dined as guests of The Gunners Barracks and Grand Pacific Group. Special thanks to Melody and Sam and to Aaron and Sal for looking after us so well. Big thanks also to Hannah Evans from Grand Pacific Group for arranging our visit.
