Tea Ceremonies

British Afternoon Tea

British afternoon tea transforms socializing into an elegant affair. Served on fine china with dainty finger sandwiches, scones slathered in clotted cream, and a selection of black teas, this tradition upholds refinement and conviviality. It is a moment to pause, connect, and indulge in timeless ritual.

A close-up of a classic three-tier afternoon tea stand displaying traditional finger sandwiches, square tea sandwiches with avocado, and small round scones with clotted cream and jam.

British Tea Traditions: Beyond Cucumber Sandwiches and Modern Tea Accompaniments

By Maria Faith | November 1, 2025

The ritual of British tea-especially the celebrated afternoon tea-conjures a very specific image: tiered cake stands laden with delicate finger sandwiches, fluffy scones, and exquisite cakes. This cherished tradition, born in the 1840s, is often attributed to Anna, the seventh Duchess of Bedford, who sought a small meal to bridge the long gap between lunch…

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