The Helmsley hotel’s tearoom and patisserie, which opened its doors just before Christmas, now sits alongside an elite group that includes the Ritz, The Four Seasons, Claridges and The Dorchester.

The invitation to join the guild – considered the beverage equivalent of a Michelin star – followed a secret inspection.

“The Black Swan really did press all the right buttons,” said a spokeswoman for The Tea Guild. “Many people want to join us, but it is by invitation only and they are made only to places which meet our very high and exacting standards. That’s why it’s considered extremely prestigious to become a member.”

The guild’s assessment praised The Black Swan’s “immaculate décor”, “welcoming, professional and knowledgeable” staff and “very good quality” food.

“A superb classic tea room,” said the report. “The cake display was beautiful.” It added it was “overall a great tea experience”.

Alison Souter, who manages the tearoom at The Black Swan, was thrilled the hotel had been successful after its first inspection.

“It’s a great honour to be accepted and shows that what we are doing here is completely on the right track. Everyone who works at the tearoom is very passionate about their job and that has shown through to the inspectors.”