Enjoy a cuppa for a good cause at Marilyn's Tea House
The Kloof and Highway SPCA is a non-profit animal welfare organization that was founded in 1967 and has since been dedicated to providing care and protection for animals in need. Their mission is to promote the welfare of animals by providing shelter, medical care, and education to the public on responsible pet ownership. One of the ways the Kloof and Highway SPCA raises funds for their organisation is through their charming on-site tea garden, Marilyn's Tea House. From the fragrant flowers to the delectable treats, every detail has been carefully curated to provide a relaxing and enjoyable experience. It's a delightful oasis situated on the grounds of the Kloof and Highway SPCA and is a perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon tea or a casual lunch with friends and family.
The tea garden is beautifully landscaped with lush greenery and fragrant flowers, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere. There are plenty of outdoor seating options available, with picnic benches under the shade of trees. The tea garden is also wheelchair accessible, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the space.
Cut from a rich piece of Kloof history
The quaint tea house is situated in one of the original Kloof farmhouses and has in recent years undergone improvements to both the building and gardens to make it a more pleasant spot to catch up with friends and family. Come sunshine or rain, you can enjoy your tea-time treats with views of the garden and nursery on the verandah that now features drop-down storm blinds and can comfortably accommodate up to forty patrons. There is also plenty of seating in the gardens for those seeking a more 'immersive' experience. More intimate seating allowing for twelve patrons can be requested inside the house, offering you and your guests more privacy in a space where you could even host a small corporate meeting.
Paws and pours
You are most welcome to pop in with your furry friends (provided that they're on a lead) where fresh water bowls are available for them to lap whilst you enjoy the excellent menu offerings. The humble and quaint tea house's mouth-watering menu ranges from wholesome breakfasts to delicious lunches and an array of scrumptious, home-baked cakes and tea-time treats to cleanse your palette. Free Wi-Fi is available for those who wish to find a quiet getaway from the office and catch up on their emails, not forgetting that the setup is also a great opportunity to mix business with pleasure. The tea house offers a decent range of hot beverages including 'babyccinos' for your little ones to enjoy. Cold beverages include a satisfying range of freezos, fruit crushers and flavoured lemonades - the perfect refreshment to enjoy on a typical sunny Durban day. You could also opt for a vegan-friendly choice by substituting your milk with almond or macadamia milk in dairy drinks.
Not just all bark and no bite
So, what's there to sink your teeth into? A small yet delightful breakfast menu is on offer, along with quiches that come with a side portion of salad, toasted sarmies, burgers, wraps, rolls, chicken strips and a chicken salad. For an extra ten bucks, you can enjoy a side portion of fresh hot chips with your meal. You'll be glad to know all menu offerings that include meat products and eggs have been carefully and locally sourced from various free-range farms in and around the province of KwaZulu-Natal. This is in line with the SPCA's policy of zero tolerance for cruelty to animals. For those with a sweet tooth, there is a selection of meringues, crumbles, scones and a cake of the day - all of which are freshly baked daily.
A kid's wonderland
This is not your run-of-the-mill tea garden that only caters to adults, but promises to delight even the young. This idyllic haven boasts ample space for children to frolic and play to their heart's content whilst their doting guardians revel in the amenities. The tea garden is a wonderland that boasts five jungle gyms, swings and slides that are at their disposal daily, and jumping castles that are available on Saturdays.
Live music and dancing
The tea garden operates from Tuesday to Saturday, from 8 am to 3 pm. There is live music and dancing to be enjoyed on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, providing the perfect backdrop for a lazy afternoon. The talented musicians play a variety of genres, from jazz to blues, and are sure to entertain guests of all ages. It is recommended to book a table in advance to avoid disappointment, especially on weekends when the tea garden is particularly popular. You can also enjoy a coffee from Paws for Coffee, or visit the many market stalls and hidden treasures marquee.
Marilyn's Tea House is not just a place to enjoy a cup of tea and a slice of cake; it is a place to make a positive difference in the lives of animals. By visiting the tea garden, you are showing your support for the organisation and their mission to promote animal welfare. It is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a delicious meal in a beautiful setting while also contributing to a good cause.