Discover the fascinating history of British afternoon tea — from its royal origins to today’s indulgent spreads. Learn how it started, what to expect, and where to enjoy the best afternoon tea in Britain.
There are few things more delightfully British than a pot of tea, a few finger sandwiches, and a tower of scones and cakes. But have you ever wondered where this delicious ritual actually came from?
Whether you’re a tourist planning your first afternoon tea in London, or a curious foodie exploring British culture, this guide to the history of afternoon tea will fill your cup — literally and figuratively.
What Exactly Is Afternoon Tea?
Afternoon tea is a light meal traditionally served between 3:30 and 5:00 p.m., consisting of:
• Tea (of course — usually black tea such as Earl Grey or Darjeeling)
• Finger sandwiches (think cucumber, smoked salmon, or egg and cress)
• Scones with jam and clotted cream
• Small cakes and pastries
Today, it’s a beloved ritual enjoyed everywhere from five-star hotels to countryside tearooms. But back in the 1800s, it started as something far simpler — and a little bit scandalous.
The Birth of Afternoon Tea: A Duchess’s Dilemma
Let’s travel back to 1840, to the grand drawing rooms of Bedford House.
The story begins with Anna, the 7th Duchess of Bedford, who found herself getting a bit peckish around four o’clock each day. In the early 19th century, most people in high society only ate two meals a day — a light breakfast and a very late dinner around 8 p.m.
To bridge the gap, Anna asked for a tray of tea, bread, and butter to be brought to her room in the late afternoon. Soon she began inviting friends to join her — turning a private snack into a social event.
Word spread quickly (as it tends to do among the British aristocracy), and soon “afternoon tea” became the height of fashionable society.
By the 1880s, upper-class women were donning their finest gowns, gloves, and hats to attend elaborate tea gatherings — often featuring silver teapots, fine china, and dainty pastries.
Fun fact: Queen Victoria loved the idea so much that she popularised the even fancier “tea receptions” — where hundreds of guests would drop in for tea, cake, and gossip.
Afternoon Tea vs. High Tea: What’s the Difference?
Visitors to Britain often confuse the two — but they’re not the same thing!
Type Who enjoyed it When What’s included
Afternoon Tea The upper classes Around 4 p.m. Tea, scones, sandwiches, pastries
High Tea The working classes Around 6 p.m. Heartier meal with meat, eggs, pies, bread, and tea
The word “high” doesn’t refer to class, but to the high dining table it was eaten at (as opposed to the low lounge tables of the drawing rooms).
So — if you’re in Britain and someone invites you for “high tea,” be prepared for more of a meal than a dainty snack!
How Afternoon Tea Evolved Over Time
As Britain’s empire expanded in the 19th century, tea became more affordable — and more people began to adopt the tradition.
By the early 20th century, hotels began offering public afternoon tea services, complete with piano music, tiered cake stands, and elegant surroundings.
Even today, the Ritz, Claridge’s, and The Savoy in London are renowned for serving afternoon teas that feel like stepping back in time.
After World War II, tea culture became more casual. Families and workplaces developed their own rituals — tea breaks, elevenses, or “a cuppa and a biscuit.”
But in recent decades, afternoon tea has made a comeback, thanks to tourism, nostalgia, and the Instagram age. Modern versions now include:
• Champagne Afternoon Tea 🥂
• Vegan or Gluten-Free Afternoon Tea 🌿
• Themed Teas (think Harry Potter or Bridgerton-inspired)
• Afternoon Tea Cruises and Bus Tours 🫖🚍
The Quintessential Components of Afternoon Tea
If you’re planning to experience afternoon tea in Britain, here’s what you can expect:
The Tea
A proper British afternoon tea starts with a pot of freshly brewed loose-leaf tea. Favourites include:
• Earl Grey (floral, bergamot-scented classic)
• Darjeeling (light and fragrant)
• English Breakfast (bold and malty)
Milk and sugar are optional — though adding milk first or last can spark fierce debates!
The Sandwiches
Cucumber sandwiches are iconic, but other classics include smoked salmon with cream cheese, egg and cress, and ham with mustard. The crusts? Always cut off.
The Scones
Served warm, split in half, and topped with clotted cream and jam.
And here’s the million-pound question:
Do you put the jam first (Cornish style) or the cream first (Devonshire style)?
Whichever way you choose — you’ll be right (sort of).
The Sweets
Mini Victoria sponges, Battenberg cake, and petits fours often feature. Some modern spots even add macarons or chocolate mousse cups.
Best Places to Enjoy Afternoon Tea in Britain
If you’re visiting the UK, these are some must-try spots:
• The Ritz, London – The ultimate classic. Expect white gloves, silverware, and perfection.
• Sketch, Mayfair – A pink velvet wonderland with Michelin-starred flair.
• Bettys, York or Harrogate – Beloved tearoom chain serving traditional Yorkshire tea.
• Fortnum & Mason, Piccadilly – Royal-approved and beautifully British.
• The Pump Room, Bath – Perfect for a Jane Austen-style experience.
Tip: Book in advance, especially for weekends and holidays.
Final Thoughts
Afternoon tea isn’t just about tea and cake — it’s about taking time to slow down, chat, and savour life. It’s a window into Britain’s social history, hospitality, and sense of ritual.
Whether you enjoy it in a five-star hotel or a village tearoom, you’re tasting a tradition that’s been steeping for nearly two centuries.
So next time you lift your cup, raise it to the Duchess of Bedford — the woman who turned afternoon hunger into one of Britain’s most delicious pastimes.