Celebrate 'Afternoon Tea Week' from August 12-18 and indulge in the much-loved British tradition at its birthplace, Belvoir Castle, this summer.

'Afternoon tea' is alleged to have been invented by Anna Russell, Duchess of Bedford, during a visit to see the 5th Duchess of Rutland in the mid-1840s. Today visitors to the country estate can choose from a quintessentially English experience at the Regency castle, or enjoy the new menu at The Balloon Bar in the Engine Yard at Belvoir.

Emma, Duchess of Rutland, says: "We are enormously proud to be the home of this beloved English tradition and invite guests to enjoy much more than a slice of history during their visit to our home. Tuck into our delicious afternoon tea to cap off your perfect day."

Afternoon tea at Belvoir Castle is taken in the Castle Tea Room and includes a selection of made-to-order sandwiches, homemade fruit cake or Victoria sponge, scones with jam and cream, as well as hot and cold drinks.

The afternoon tea offer starts from £48 for two people. The ticket also includes access to the Castle's award-nominated gardens. Guests can also upgrade their ticket to see the Staterooms in the Castle.

Afternoon tea at The Balloon Bar is a new addition to the venue's food and drink offer. Enjoyed in the whimsical, hot-air balloon themed interiors, the menu includes a selection ofscones, cream and jam, sandwiches and cakes, plus a pot of Duke's tea. Afternoon tea with sparkling wine and a glass of fizz are also available.

Afternoon tea at The Balloon Bar, the latest addition to the multi-million-pound artisan shopping village and just a stone's throw from Belvoir Castle, is served every day from 14:30 to 17:30 and starts from £29 for two people.

For information on Afternoon Tea at Belvoir Castle, visitwww.belvoircastle.com.

For Afternoon Tea at The Balloon Bar, visitwww.engineyardbelvoir.com.