A taste of the finer things in life is being served up by 19th Century style waitresses as Camperdown House opens up as a vintage tearoom today.
The doors to the Neo-classical mansion have long been closed to the public but it is being transformed as a finishing school for hospitality and cookery students for the next for six weeks.
Run as a non-profit making enterprise, the tearoom will be open for six weeks offering a true vintage experience with clientele relaxing in high-backed leather and brocade chairs at oak tables, while their orders are taken by waitresses sporting long black skirts, white linen aprons and traditional headbands.
Guests attended an exclusive preview event yesterday and members of the public are being encouraged to come and support the venture today.
“Only some of the best of our students will be offered the chance to participate in the finishing school,” said Louisa Kingham, head of hospitality, retail and tourism.Click here for a full photo gallery“We are convinced that those who have this opportunity will be inspired by the elegant surroundings offered by this grade A listed building which has been described as one of the finest of its kind in the country.”
Utilising both the central hall and the library, the teahouse will cater for up to 50 people at each of three sittings during the day.
While the venue will be open to the public, service will be at 11.30am, 1pm and 2.15pm, so booking is advisable.
The college project was a collaboration with Dundee City Council, and supported by Enterprise@D&A, a European Regional Development Fund project.
Completed in 1828, the house was built by Viscount Duncan, son of Admiral Duncan who defeated a Dutch Fleet at the battle of Camperdown in 1797, during the French Revolutionary Wars.
To book a place at the tearoom call 01382 834921, Monday to Friday from 9am to 4.30pm or go to www.dundeeandangus.ac.uk/tearoom.