The Quintessential British Experience: Your Guide to Afternoon Tea
Afternoon Tea is one of the most cherished and delightful rituals in Britain.
It’s far more than just a cup of tea; it's a beautiful pause in the day, a social occasion, a light meal, and a true taste of British heritage.
Traditional British tea time, complete with finger sandwiches, pastries, and a perfectly poured pot of tea.
A Taste of History: The Sinking Feeling
This beloved tradition was popularized in the 1840s by Anna, the seventh Duchess of Bedford. Back then, dinner was served as late as 8:00 pm, leaving a long gap after breakfast that gave her a "sinking feeling" in the late afternoon. Her solution? A tray of tea, bread and butter, and cake brought to her room or boudoir around four o’clock. This quickly grew into a fashionable social event among the wealthy, moving to the 'Drawing Room' and eventually spreading across the country as Queen Victoria adopted the ritual too.
A quiet moment with British tea. Photo Credit: Wagamama on Pexels
While many people use "Afternoon Tea" as a catch-all term, there are distinct variations you should know for your trip:
Afternoon Tea
The classic and social experience, originally aristocratic for ladies who climbed the echelons of society, served in a formal setting, often in hotels. 3-5pm.
Served on a three tier platter, It usually includes crustless, soldier sandwiches (egg mayo, cucumber, smoked salmon, ham and mustard, coronation chicken) on the lower layer, scones with clotted cream and jam on the middle layer and sweet pastries and cakes on the top. With a hot pot of tea to go with it. Afternoon tea generally comes with the option of Champagne or sparkling wine nowadays to make the experience extra special.
Cream Tea
A simpler, more casual style of Afternoon Tea with warm scones, clotted cream and jam and a hot pot of tea. Often served in coffee shops as well as restaurants and hotels.
High Tea
Historically, a more substantial, working-class meal served later in the day (around 5pm). Now, the term is often mistakenly used for Traditional Afternoon Tea. It includes a mug of strong hot tea and a hot dish (e.g., meat pie or eggs), bread, vegetables, tea and maybe cake. There would also be local variations and sometimes the addition of pie or potatoes.
Freshly baked scones and a cup of tea: an essential part of British tea culture. Photo Credit: İdil Çelikler on Pexels
The Scone Debate: Devon vs. Cornwall
This is a culinary divide as old as time and one that is still hotly debated today.
Cornwall: Jam first, then cream on top.
Devon: Cream first, then jam on top.
Which side are you on? The tradition dates back to Tavistock Abbey in 997AD, where laborers were served bread with clotted cream and jam after rebuilding the Abbey following a Viking raid. It’s a cultural marker—not just a question of which order tastes best! It’s up to you to decide, but as far as we are concerned you can’t go wrong either way.
A classic tea cozy.
If you’re attending a formal afternoon tea, there are a few simple rules or tea etiquette that will help you enjoy the experience like a Brit:
The Cup: Hold the handle by pinching your index finger and thumb together within the loop, using your middle finger along the bottom for support.
The Stir: Stir gently from 12 to 6 o’clock; never whirl or clink the spoon. Rest the spoon on the saucer behind your cup.
The Food Order: Always eat in order: Bottom Tier (sandwiches), Middle Tier(scones), Top Tier (pastries).
The Napkin: Place it on your lap or on your chair if you briefly leave the table.
Never Dunk! And no slurping—just quiet sipping and small bites.
British afternoon tea at its finest: sandwiches, scones, cakes, and a pot of tea meant to be enjoyed slowly. Photo Credit: Onur Satıcı on Pexels
Where to Experience it
From grand hotels to cozy tearooms, you’ll find incredible afternoon tea experiences across the UK.
In London, a few unforgettable, themed options include:
The Shard or The Gherkin for Peter Pan or classic teas with incredible views.
The Sanderson Hotel for the whimsical Mad Hatter’s Tea.
The Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon at Fortnum & Mason, a historic experience dating back to 1707.
The Ritz for a classy, upscale experience
Brigits Afternoon Tea Bus for a fun spin on a Double Decker.
Outside of London, look for:
Bettys Tea Room in Harrogate and York, established over 100 years ago.
The Pump House Bath, set in a beautiful 1795 Grade 1 building.
Norton House Hotel and Spa in Edinburgh, a stunning Georgian Country House.
The Newt, if you stay at The Newt, afternoon tea is free and part of The Newt experience.
A final tip from Inside Story Travel: We strongly encourage you to make a reservation for your afternoon tea experience, as many book up weeks in advance. Prices typically range from around 30GBP to 100GBP.
Afternoon Tea is truly a chance to slow down, connect with friends, and enjoy the simple pleasure of expertly prepared food and a perfect cup of tea. Let us know if we can help you find your perfect spot.
