Ever thought of switching things up for your next date, be it with your significant other, a friend, your mum/ dad, or even a solo treat? Let me introduce you to a charming little indulgence that’s timeless, elegant, and surprisingly fun: Afternoon Tea.
Yes, tea! But not the rushed, accompanied by tiered trays, delicate china, dainty bites, and a moment to pause and truly enjoy. Sounds exciting? It really is and you should be in on this.
Afternoon Tea is one of Britain’s most beloved traditions, and its origin is as delightful as the treats it comes with. Back in the 1840s, Anna Maria Russell—later the Duchess of Bedford—found herself feeling a little peckish in the long gap between lunch and a rather late dinner. Her solution? A light meal of tea, bread, and cake around 4 p.m. She began inviting her friends to join her, and just like that, a cultural phenomenon was born. The upper class caught on fast, and Afternoon Tea became the social event of the day.
Fast forward to now, and Afternoon Tea is still going strong, only now it’s for everyone. In fact, this week (August 11–17) marks Afternoon Tea Week, the perfect excuse to treat yourself to something whimsical and oh-so-satisfying.
What’s on the Menu?
A classic Afternoon Tea typically features the following:
- Finger Sandwiches: Think cucumber, smoked salmon, egg and cress, or roast beef with horseradish—neatly cut, crustless, and incredibly moreish.
- Bready Treats: This is where the scone reigns supreme, served warm with clotted cream and jam (the eternal debate: jam first or cream?). You might also find crumpets, toasted tea cakes, or English muffins.
- Sweet Endings: Mini cakes, tarts, and pastries—bite-sized lemon tartlets, Victoria sponge, buttery shortbread, or chocolate éclairs that are almost too pretty to eat (almost).
- Bonus Bites: While not traditional, many modern Afternoon Teas include a bit of salad flair—maybe edible flowers, fresh fruit, or a sprinkle of microgreens for colour and crunch.
Here’s a guide to enjoying the whole experience: what to do and do right
Timing is Everything
Afternoon Tea is traditionally served between 3 and 5 p.m….the perfect window to pause and reset before the evening rush.
Start from the Bottom, Work Your Way Up
- Begin with the bottom tier, filled with savoury finger sandwiches.
- Move up to the middle tier, where warm scones await (clotted cream and jam included, of course).
- And finally, finish on a high note with the top tier—delicate pastries and sweet treats.
The Graceful Art of Tea-Sipping
- When lifting your teacup, keep the handle gently positioned at 3 o’clock (or 9 o’clock if you’re left-handed) for the most graceful movement.
- Let the saucer rest on the table—no need to lift it as you sip.
- Stir your tea ever so gently from 6 o’clock to 12 o’clock, without clinking the sides of your cup. Then quietly place your spoon back on the saucer. Soft, silent, and oh-so-elegant.
Scone Etiquette 101
- Break, don’t cut. Use your fingers to gently split your scone in half—no knives, please! For a tidier bite, some even recommend breaking that half into quarters.
- Spread the love. Start with a layer of clotted cream, then top with jam—yes, in that order. And spread right to the edges for maximum deliciousness
So, the next time you’re thinking of what to do for date night (or day), skip the usual and sip on something layered with treats, and bursting with charm. Because honestly, what’s more romantic than tea, cake, and a slow afternoon with someone you love?
