We were lucky enough to visit the Champneys Health Spa in Tring this week, as they launched their brand new, healthier, afternoon tea. There are lots of great reasons for those of you visiting Champneys to check it out. Not only are two of our intriguing Flowering Teas on the menu, but British baking favourite Nadiya Hussain has been busy creating some special cakes too – with the focus firmly on guilt-free indulgence. So, how do you make something as decadent as afternoon tea healthier? Nadiya and Champneys put their nutritionally-minded heads together to come up with a menu which delivers lots of flavour without pumping up the fat, sugar and calories. Champneys say that it’s all about ‘moderation, balance and variety’… and there was plenty of that. We were particularly taken with the crab and avocado wraps with fresh mango salsa – and the baked smoked salmon scotch eggs were to die for! We won’t lie – the idea of Raw Chocolate Aubergine Cake didn’t appeal at first, but this naturally sweet low-calorie cake is a must-try, and it’s packed with fibre. And as for Nadiya’s showpiece dessert… well, it would be rude not to. Made with a light Genoese sponge, vanilla mousse, fresh raspberries and raspberry mint jam (not to mention a layer of dark chocolate), it would certainly be one to enjoy while you admire the views of Champneys’ extensive grounds, and ponder which treatment you should go for next. “I chose a Genoese sponge because it is a lighter, less sugar alternative to a standard sponge”, says Nadiya, who recently baked another important cake for the Queen’s 90^th birthday. The cake’s contrast of sweet vanilla and aromatic raspberry works perfectly as ever, and the dark chocolate “adds a bitterness that can cut any richness”. In that case, we might just have another piece… Our Lychee and Blueberry Flowering Teas are also there to add a fragrant note to the afternoon tea experience, and are sure to attract attention as they unfurl in your cup creating a beautiful floral display. If you’re going to Champneys this summer, you can enjoy this delightful afternoon tea any day of the week from 20 June between 2.30 and 5.00pm, for just £19.95 per person. Call 0843 316 2222 for reservations. The afternoon tea can only be booked in addition to a Champneys stay or visit.

Competition: Win a set of Newby’s Flowering Teas to try at home.

GBBO Afternoon Tea at Champneys