Historic hotel brings its heritage to life on film with new china design story

A new short film reveals the hidden meanings behind a historic hotel’s bespoke afternoon tea china - inspired by centuries of stories woven into the Suffolk landmark.

The Swan at Lavenham Hotel and Spa is bringing its past to life on screen, capturing the rich history, symbolism and craftsmanship behind its recently launched designs.

The film, Where There’s Tea, There’s History offers a behind-the-scenes look at the journey taken to capture - the heritage of the hotel  and features the people who were fundamental in making the vision a reality. A trailer is already available online, offering a glimpse into the narrative.

David Scott, CEO of The Hotel Folk, the group that runs The Swan as well as five more boutique hotels along the Suffolk coast and countryside, said: “This story is more than being just about a cup and saucer. 

“The Swan sits at the centre of Lavenham and has played an enormous part in the history of the village. But we wanted to tell the stories that only The Swan can tell. And what better way to tell those stories than through the tradition of afternoon tea?”

Rosalia Ferrara, General Manager at The Swan at Lavenham, added: “The Swan has always been full of stories, and this film gives us a new way to share them beyond the walls of the building.

“The collection was designed to reflect moments from our past, and seeing those brought to life on screen - from the initial sketches through to the finished pieces - really captures the care, creativity and craftsmanship behind it.”

At the heart of the film is the collaboration between the hotel and local artist Lienne Birch, whose intricate designs were created to reflect centuries of history embedded in the building.

From Lavenham’s medieval wealth as a wool town to wartime memories and folklore, each element of the china tells a story. The film explores these in detail, including the significance of symbols such as the Tudor slipper discovered within the walls, the RAF and US Air Force connections, and the distinctive architectural markings preserved throughout the hotel.

The collection itself was produced by Roy Kirkham & Co, one of the UK’s last remaining fine bone china makers, known for its work with some of Britain’s most prestigious institutions.

Artist Lienne Birch added: “This has always been about uncovering and celebrating the stories held within the building. Each illustration is rooted in a real moment or detail, and the film gives us the chance to share those in a much more immersive way.

“Seeing the work evolve from sketches into finished pieces, and now into film, has been incredibly special.”

The bespoke china collection forms part of The Swan’s wider commitment to celebrating its heritage while creating memorable guest experiences. It is now used as part of the hotel’s popular afternoon tea offering, allowing visitors to quite literally dine from the stories of the building.

The film launch marks the next chapter in the collaboration, offering guests and audiences a deeper understanding of the thought, artistry and history behind the experience.

As part of the celebrations The Swan at Lavenham have launched an exclusive gift voucher offer where 100 guests can indulge in an afternoon tea accompanied by a summery passionfruit mojito for £35 per person. This is a saving of £11 and they have up to twelve months to redeem the voucher.

Watch the film on YouTube.

Disocver more about Afternoon Tea at The Swan at Lavenham's website.