My understanding is there's a restaurant AND a tea house at Eltham Palace. Has anyone eaten at either one? I'm interested in the food and the setting. I don't want to eat there if you're telling me it's in the basement with florescent lighting...

(My alternative would be eating at the Red House in Bexleyheath, they have a tearoom there.)

ttt

Can't tell you about Eltham but on my one and only visit to Red House there was no tea because the person in charge had gone home with the keys the day before. They were all frightfully embarrassed. I don't think there would be lots to eat though, quite a small place. Red House well worth a visit. Bexleyheath not much to eat in pubs on Sunday, some didn't do food on Sunday. We checked before setting off. Ate in London instead.

Have just looked at Eltham Palace website, it says
"Our tea room is in the original Service Quarters and a very different world. Enjoy tea or coffee, lunch or a light snack served by waitresses in traditional black and white uniform."

They suggest an hour for the house and about an hour for the gardens.

1st November onwards moves to 4pm closing time.

Red House closes at 4.45 but they prefer you to book on a tour which I would recommend as the guides are so knowledgeable. Otherwise limited free flow tour after 3.30.

Thanks for the info. I have looked at the Eltham Palace website at least half a dozen times, but I guess i never clicked on the "Day Planner" tab to see what's there, which I guess is where you found the info. I kept looking under "Visitors info" tab and it doesn't have as much info.

Based on what you're saying, I think the tea room at Eltham Palace will be my best bet.

I already have booked a tour for the Red House.

Thanks again.