The idea of afternoon tea started in the early 1800s to fill the gap between breakfast and late dinners common among wealthy English people. Duchess Anna, the 7th Duchess of Bedford, is credited with popularizing afternoon tea.

Being of noble rank, she often felt hungry in the long wait before dinner, usually served very late, around 8 or 9 pm. To satisfy her hunger, she started having a tray with tea, bread, and butter delivered to her around 4 o’clock in the afternoon.

Her friends liked the idea, and soon it became a beloved social custom among the British upper class.

Tea Gardens and Tea Rooms

As afternoon tea became more popular, Tea Gardens and Tea Rooms began appearing to cater to the increasing demand for this social activity. These venues provided a refined setting where people could gather, enjoy tea, and indulge in sandwiches, scones, and desserts.

One of the first and most renowned tea rooms was Gunter’s Tea Shop, which opened in London in 1828. It set a high standard and soon became a fashionable meeting spot for the city’s upper class. Gunter’s played a crucial role in shaping the tradition of afternoon tea into what it is today.

Refined Afternoon Tea

During the 19th century, afternoon tea evolved into a more refined and formal tradition. It became an opportunity for ladies to showcase their finest china, silverware, and linens, and to demonstrate impeccable manners and social skills.

The typical afternoon tea menu featured finger sandwiches with fillings like cucumber or smoked salmon, scones served with clotted cream and jam, and a selection of delicate pastries and miniature cakes. Tea was usually brewed in a gleaming silver teapot, offering a choice of blends such as English Breakfast and Earl Grey, which remained favorites among guests.

The Difference Between Afternoon Tea and High Tea

While 'Afternoon Tea' and 'High Tea' are often used interchangeably, they actually describe two different historical customs. Afternoon tea, as we discussed, was a light meal enjoyed by the upper classes to bridge the gap between meals.

'High Tea' was a more substantial evening meal consumed by the working classes. It got its name because it was typically served at a high dining table, not a low coffee table like Afternoon Tea.

High Tea usually included heartier fare such as cold meats, cheese, bread, and sometimes pies or cakes. It served as a substantial meal to satisfy the working class after a long day of work.

The Modern Experience of Afternoon Tea

Today, afternoon tea has evolved into a beloved tradition enjoyed by people worldwide, regardless of social class. While it retains an element of elegance and sophistication, it has also become more inclusive.

Many hotel cafés and tea rooms now offer traditional afternoon tea featuring finger sandwiches, scones, pastries, and a variety of fine teas. These settings often boast beautiful decor, elegant tables set with fine china, and attentive service.

Afternoon tea has also become a popular way to celebrate special occasions such as birthdays or bridal showers, or simply to enjoy a cozy afternoon with friends and family. It provides a moment of relaxation and enjoyment in our fast-paced world, evoking a sense of nostalgia for a time when life moved at a slower pace.

Lykkers, after exploring the rich history and evolving tradition of afternoon tea, what are your thoughts? Does this timeless ritual resonate with you, or perhaps inspire you to experience it firsthand?

Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below and continue the conversation about this quintessentially British delight!