Royal Gorge Mansion - Cañon City, Colorado

James H.

This review is specifically of their “Afternoon Tea” experience. I want to mention given the advertisement on their site of this being a “British tea time” experience that I am actually an English man.

For context: my wife and I booked afternoon tea for a price of $135 not including tip to celebrate our anniversary.

To speak first to the positive elements, the grounds are beautifully kept, and the atmosphere did remind me of proper British tea houses which was quite unique to find in a place like Cañon City. The tea itself was fairly good, and the food was done quite well. The servers were friendly.

Upon arrival, no one was present to show us to our table. We found it ourselves, and a server arrived about a minute or so afterwards. Not a big deal, but at $67/ person I’d expect staff to be prepared especially given they suggest arriving 15 minutes early which is precisely when we arrived. Next, on their site, comes a glass of champagne as part of the reservation to enjoy while perusing the tea selection menu. This never came. When my wife asked a question regarding flavor notes of one of their teas, the server didn’t actually know and had to go off and ask someone. Again, at the price point, I’d expect knowledge of the limited menu to be a baseline expectation of the staff.

The tea arrived still steeping which was not mentioned by the staff, so you’ll want to let it sit in the pot to steep properly. Up to this point and continuing through the experience, the atmosphere inside was fairly awkward. It was very quite, no music, and given that this is an “experience” held within a historic mansion, you’d think staff would be giving some history or something. I want to be clear, this isn’t advertised. However, to again consider the price, you’d think the staff would guide you through history of the mansion and/ or a presentation of the tea and food.

Now, as a lab English man, the biggest surprise of this “British” tea time rather expensive experience: the tea IS NOT loose leaf. They specifically advertise loose leaf tea. The teas are large sachet (bags) served inside tea pots. This was quite surprising, and obviously not in accordance with their advertising at all.

Next, the food came out on a two tiered curate as opposed to the advertised three tiered curate listed on the site. The food was plenty, but this was strike three of advertisement vs experience.

Finally, checks were placed on all tables listing the value of service (your reservation cost plus any extras you purchased on site) with math done to give you a suggested 20% tip option to add on the spot. These checks came out to signify the end of the experience 45 minutes into the listed 90 minute experience.

Overall, I’d say this is a unique experience especially given the area it is offered in. However, you’ll want to go in with realistic expectations as much does not match what is listed in their advertising.

To the Mansion itself, I’d strongly suggest altering the advertising or the experience such that the two align. I’d also suggest that a 90 minute tea time (or even a 45 minute) charging as much as you do, and held in a historic mansion, ought to come with highly trained and knowledgeable staff and should include at least a minimal presentation on the mansion’s history as well as the teas and refreshments being offered.

Stephen K.

Had high tea at the mansion. Good tea. Best scones with the various toppings. The little sandwiches are good, I liked the smoked salmon.

Toxic L.

Really cool experience. Afternoon tea and treats. Was awesome. And I was full when I left. Which I was not expecting. From the little scones and sandwiches. Beautiful home.

Angela D.

A Very beautiful place to go and see. Love the architecture and landscaping as well. Beautiful fountain in the front lawn, and gazebo was beautiful as well. It was a cold day, but I really enjoyed taking the pictures..

Amy ?.

I went for tea and lunch. I didn't book the tour so unclear on the actual name. It was nice though. Wish I could've stayed for the tour. Maybe next time. The staff was very friendly and knowledgeable

L C.

Absolutely gorgeous home! The Christmas decor was perfect, the staff was welcoming and the history of the home was very interesting. We are already planning a visit during the spring.

Lori M.

Beautiful historical place, well kept.

Cindy J.

When we reserved our spot, there were no vegan options. I was the only vegan in the bunch, so i just planned on not eating. But the chef went out of her way to feed me and it was amazing. The rest of my party raved about their food and the tea was wonderful. The Mansion was beautiful and our server, gracious, kind, and helpful. If you like tea rooms, I thoroughly recommend the Royal Gorge Mansion.