Planning your first trip to London and wondering about the famous “afternoon tea”? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Let’s dive into the history, etiquette, and everything you need to know about this quintessential British experience.
Afternoon Tea’s Humble Beginnings
The story of afternoon tea starts with a hungry duchess! In the 1840s, Anna, the 7th Duchess of Bedford, found herself famished between meals. Dinner wasn’t served until 8 pm, so she requested tea, bread, and butter to hold her over. Soon, she started inviting her friends to join her in this afternoon snack, and thus, afternoon tea was born.
Today, afternoon tea is a delightful tradition enjoyed between lunch and dinner, typically between 3 and 6 pm.
High Tea vs. Afternoon Tea: Unveiling the Difference
Before you embark on your tea adventure, let’s clear up a common misconception. High tea and afternoon tea are not the same!
Afternoon tea, also known as low tea, was originally a sophisticated affair enjoyed by the upper middle class. Guests would gather in a cozy drawing room, seated on low chairs around equally low tables, to indulge in a light, elegant meal. This typically included finger sandwiches, dainty pastries, and, of course, a pot of fragrant tea.
High tea, on the other hand, was a hearty meal enjoyed by the working class. After a long day of labor, workers would gather around high tables in bars or at home, enjoying a substantial meal of meat and potatoes, along with their tea.
While class distinctions have faded over time, the essence of these two tea traditions remains: afternoon tea focuses on light fare and elegance, while high tea emphasizes a more substantial meal.
Afternoon Tea Etiquette: Your Guide to Gracious Enjoyment
Once you’re settled into your cozy afternoon tea setting, a server will present you with a menu showcasing an array of teas and delicious treats. Relax and enjoy the full experience – there’s no need to pick and choose from each category!
Here are some key etiquette tips to keep in mind:
- Napkin Etiquette: Place your napkin on your lap, folded side up.
- Tea Time: A teapot is usually shared amongst the table, with one person serving everyone.
- Loose Leaf Tea: Use the tea strainer to filter out loose tea leaves.
- Stirring: Stir your tea from left to right, rather than in circles.
- Finger Food Delight: Enjoy finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries with your hands, starting from the bottom tier of the tiered serving plate.
What to Expect During Your Afternoon Tea Experience
Afternoon tea is a truly immersive experience that will transport you to a world of elegance and indulgence. Here’s what you can anticipate:
- Later Tea Times: Don’t assume afternoon tea starts at noon! Traditionally, it’s served at 4 pm, but many establishments offer reservations throughout the day, from 11:30 am to 8 pm.
- Exceptional Tea: Forget about those boxed tea bags! Expect to be treated to a symphony of flavors with high-quality, responsibly sourced, unique and exotic blends of loose-leaf tea. Sugar is often served in cubes, not packets, with tiny tongs for adding that sweet touch to your tea.
- Savory & Sweet Delights: While the tea itself is the star of the show, the accompanying food is equally delicious. Expect a delightful array of finger sandwiches (think smoked salmon, roast beef, chicken salad, or cucumber), scones with clotted cream and jam, perhaps a tart (cheese or ham), and a tempting assortment of sweets like chocolates and cakes. Gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options are often available upon request.
- Unique Experiences: The afternoon tea scene in London is vibrant and competitive, with many establishments offering unique twists and themes to enhance your experience. You might encounter a classic-glam afternoon tea at The Ritz Carlton, a science-themed tea at The Ampersand Hotel, a vegan-focused high-tea at Farmacy Kitchen, a London tea bus tour with Brigit’s (B) Bakery, a selection of the most flavorful teas at Fortnum & Mason, or a “Tipsy Tea” with champagne at Mr. Frogg’s.
- Impressive Presentation: Expect to be wowed by a beautifully presented 3-tiered rack of deliciousness. The host will often explain each item on the plate, and you’ll enjoy the food on a variety of plates – from traditional china to wooden platters, petri dishes, mini carousels, and more.
- Prices to Consider: While afternoon tea might seem pricey, you’re not just paying for tea. It’s a full experience with high-quality ingredients, delicious food, and a unique atmosphere. Prices can range from under £20 for more affordable options to upwards of £70 for more luxurious experiences.
What to Wear to Afternoon Tea:
While most places welcome a range of attire, “smart casual” is a safe bet. For women, think a blouse (not a t-shirt), nice pants, flats or heels, dresses, or skirts. For men, opt for nice slacks or jeans without holes, a button-down or polo shirt (avoiding tanks and regular t-shirts). Just imagine you’re going on a first date with someone to a nice but not overly fancy restaurant.
Embark on Your London Afternoon Tea Adventure!
Afternoon tea is a truly memorable London experience. So, book your reservations in advance, embrace the etiquette, and get ready to enjoy a delightful afternoon filled with delicious food, fragrant tea, and a touch of British elegance.
Have you ever enjoyed an afternoon tea? What was your experience like? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
