History of Afternoon Tea​​

​

Afternoon tea is a tradition that originated in England in the early 19th century. It is widely believed to have been established by Anna Maria Russell, the Duchess of Bedford, around the year 1840. During this time, it was common for the evening meal to be served quite late, often around 8 or 9 PM. The Duchess, feeling peckish in the late afternoon, began requesting a pot of tea, bread, and butter, and occasionally cake to be brought to her room.

​

As the Duchess invited friends to join her for this light repast, the practice began to gain popularity among the upper classes. By the 1850s, afternoon tea had become a fashionable social event, with women dressing elegantly for the occasion. These gatherings often featured a selection of teas, finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, pastries, and cakes.

​

By the late 19th century, hotels such as The Ritz and Claridge’s began offering afternoon tea services, further solidifying its place in British culture. The tradition of afternoon tea continued to evolve and expand, becoming a beloved social ritual among people of all classes.

​

Today, afternoon tea remains a cherished experience, both in the UK and around the world, where it serves as a delightful way to unwind and socialise, often highlighting traditional foods and contemporary twists in a beautiful setting.