The Tea Room at Gunners' Barracks

Hi

We saw The Tea Room at Gunners' Barracks on Saturday at 9am - and to tell you the truth I almost didn't feel like going due to the early meeting time and also because I didn't think it would be my style. Having seen online pictures I thought I preferred something more modern, but it turns out we really like the place.

The venue is basically a private little Victorian-style sandstone house located in the suburb of Mosman, among a whole host of antiquated army barracks. Don't ask me which war it was. There are 3 main areas: the terrace, inside dining room, lounge room and outside sandstone courtyard.

Apparently the terrace area (shown below) was the result of a massive renovation recently. Half of the roofing is made up of a foldable fabric that is pulled back when the weather is good to fully expose the terrace to the spectacular views and natural surroundings. When covered, there is a durable plastic that wraps all the way around (also shown below but you probably can't see it) - giving the venue a great wet weather coverage.

Seating area on terrace

View from terrace

Doors connecting to inside area

The decor is very elegant, Victorian and cosy. The rooms are fully furnished with curtains, chandeliers and wall hangings. One advantage of this venue is that it does not require too many extra decorations. No chair covers, drapes or large decorations are needed.

Inside dining room

Bride's room

Lawns in front of terrace

We thought this outside area (below) would make a great dance floor in the evening when the overhanging fairy lights are turned on - definitely great for a romantic first dance.

Outside sandstone ceremony/dance area

And finally this is a spare room for lounging around or it can be turned into a dance room in wet weather. I love the idea of having some cake with tea/coffee whilst mingling or chilling out in this room.

Lounge room/wet weather dance room

We really like the idea that guests can wander around the different spaces and mingle as they like. Having the venue as a house creates a very rustic and intimate atmosphere.

For those who have cars, parking is free and easy but there is not much in the way of public transport.
We're planning on tasting the food here first before further considerations. I just remember The Tea Room at QVB was such a let-down and just bad last time we were there for a function. So we definitely need to test the food here to make sure it's decent first.

We are quite fond of this venue (although it is more expensive than L'Aqua).
Looks like it will come down to finances and food.