Afternoon Tea

Afternoon Tea, one of Britain’s finest traditions, is truly one of life’s great pleasures. Afternoon Tea is a meal composed of sandwiches cut delicately into 'fingers', scones with clotted cream and jam, sweet pastries and cakes. The journey towards the top of the tiered stand, from savory to sweet, is a treat like no other.

Today’s definition of Afternoon Tea has come a long way since its conception in the 1840s by the Duchess of Bedford, Anna Russell, a lifelong friend of Queen Victoria and a prominent member of London society. During a visit to the Duke of Rutland, she requested a light refreshment consisting of tea and cake or sandwiches to stave off ‘that sinking feeling’ between lunch and dinner. The ideal way to punctuate the afternoon, soon she started inviting friends to enjoy it with her. Given her influence, it didn’t take long before other ladies of society started to host their own tea parties and so, Afternoon Tea was born. As time went on, the custom became increasingly popular. Afternoon Tea transformed from a light, mid-afternoon snack to the grand ceremony it is today, consisting of finger sandwiches, scones, cakes and pastries, accompanied by tea and often a glass of Champagne.