Treat yourself this Afternoon Tea Week from 12th - 18th August.
The charming tradition of afternoon tea dates back to the early 19th century, where it quickly became a beloved pastime among the English nobility and upper classes. While the exact origin of this ritual is somewhat disputed, it is widely believed to have been popularised by Anna, the seventh Duchess of Bedford.
During the early 1800s, the Duchess found herself feeling famished in the long gap between lunch and dinner. To combat her hunger pangs, she began requesting a tray of tea, sandwiches, and cakes be brought to her private chambers in the late afternoon. This practice soon caught on and became a fashionable social event among affluent circles.
The concept of afternoon tea was further popularised by the socialite and reformer, Lady Caroline Lamb, who transformed it into a glamorous affair, often hosting lavish tea parties with decadent spreads of scones, pastries, and delicate finger sandwiches. These gatherings became a symbol of sophistication and refined social etiquette.
As the trend grew in popularity, tearooms and hotels started offering afternoon tea as a formal service, with The Langham Hotel in London claiming to be the birthplace of the traditional afternoon tea service. It wasn't long before afternoon tea became a staple of British culture, with hotels and tearooms across Britain and eventually the world embracing the ritual.
Over time, various adaptations of afternoon tea emerged to cater to different tastes and preferences. For example, the "cream tea" features scones served with clotted cream and jam, while the "high tea" includes heartier savoury dishes alongside the traditional sweet treats.
Today, afternoon tea remains a cherished tradition not just in Britain but across the globe, with a resurgence in popularity driven by the desire for a moment of respite and indulgence in our fast-paced lives. Whether enjoyed in a luxurious hotel setting, a quaint tearoom, or the comfort of one's own home, the ritual of afternoon tea continues to bring people together to savour delicious treats and create lasting memories.
If you’re interested in hosting an afternoon tea, read on for our perfect classic plates to enjoy and the fluffiest scone recipe. Not in the hosting mood? Head out to one of these local delights that offer an afternoon tea to die for!…
Tudor House Cafe:
from £19.95 per person.
111 Lichfield Street, Tamworth, B79 7QB.
To book your afternoon tea call: 07862 260548
Christopher’s British Bistro:
from £21.85 per person.
13 Aldergate, Tamworth B79 7DL.
To book call: 01827 67676
Fox Inn:
from £15 per person.
Lichfield Road, Tamworth, B79 7SH.
Call to book: 01827 318951
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