The Perfect Afternoon Tea: A Quintessential British Tradition

There's something utterly delightful about indulging in a traditional afternoon tea. This quintessential British ritual is more than just a meal; it's an experience steeped in history and elegance. 

Whether you're hosting a sophisticated gathering or simply treating yourself, here's how to create the perfect afternoon tea. 

My wife and I were able to enjoy a very special afternoon tea at the justifiably famous Brown's Hotel in London several years ago. It's now £75 per guest, in the Browns Hotel Drawing Room.

The History of Afternoon Tea

Afternoon tea is credited to Anna, the 7th Duchess of Bedford, in the early 19th century. With dinner served fashionably late, she found herself peckish in the long afternoon hours and requested a tray of tea, bread, and butter to be brought to her room. This practice quickly became a social event, inviting friends to join her, and thus, the tradition of afternoon tea was born.

Setting the Scene

Creating the perfect afternoon tea begins with the setting. Aim for a comfortable yet elegant atmosphere. A well-laid table with a crisp linen tablecloth, fine china, and polished silverware sets the tone. Fresh flowers in a vase and soft background music can enhance the experience.

The Tea

The star of the show is, of course, the tea. Choose a variety of high-quality loose-leaf teas to cater to different tastes. Classic options include:

Earl Grey: A fragrant black tea with hints of bergamot.

Darjeeling: Often referred to as the "champagne of teas," this has a delicate and musky-sweet flavour.

Assam: A robust tea with a malty flavour, perfect for those who prefer a stronger brew.

Provide milk, sugar, and lemon slices so guests can personalise their tea. Ensure you have an elegant teapot, a strainer, and a selection of fine china teacups and saucers.

The Food

An afternoon tea menu typically comprises three main elements: sandwiches, scones, and cakes or pastries.

Sandwiches

Light and delicate, the sandwiches should be crustless and cut into neat fingers or triangles. Traditional fillings include:

Cucumber and cream cheese

Smoked salmon and dill

Egg and cress

Ham and mustard

Scones

Freshly baked scones are the highlight of any afternoon tea. Serve them warm with clotted cream and strawberry jam. The debate between whether to spread the jam or cream first can spark lively conversation, but the choice is ultimately yours.

Cakes and Pastries

A selection of sweet treats adds a touch of indulgence. Consider including:

Victoria sponge cake

Lemon drizzle cake

Battenberg cake

Macarons

Fruit tarts

Etiquette

Afternoon tea comes with its own set of etiquettes. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Sipping Tea: Hold the teacup by the handle and sip gently. Avoid clinking the cup against the saucer.

Using Cutlery: Use your knife to spread the cream and jam on your scones. Sandwiches and pastries are generally eaten with your fingers.

Conversation: Keep the conversation light and pleasant. Afternoon tea is a time for relaxation and enjoyment.

Conclusion

The perfect afternoon tea is a blend of tradition, elegance, and delightful flavours. Whether enjoyed in the company of friends or as a solitary indulgence, it’s a moment to savour. With the right preparation and a touch of finesse, you can recreate this timeless British tradition in your own home. 

So, put the kettle on, lay out your best china, and enjoy the simple pleasure of a perfect afternoon tea.