Bring the Magic of Afternoon Tea to Your Door

There is an unmistakable charm to the British tradition of afternoon tea. It is a moment where elegance meets indulgence, taking the moment to slow down, connect and savour life’s little luxuries, where time seems to stand still.

Whether you prefer a grand hotel experience or the warmth of a countryside tea room or at home, afternoon tea remains a treasured custom that has graced British culture since the 1840s.

A Delightful Ritual

Afternoon tea was born in the Victorian era from the refined tastes of Anna, the Duchess of Bedford, who found herself in need of a light meal between lunch and dinner (which was often served at 8 or 9pm). She began inviting friends to join her for this small afternoon meal at her home, and the practice quickly became fashionable among the upper classes. As the custom spread, it evolved to include small sandwiches (particularly cucumber), scones with clotted cream and jam, and various cakes and pastries as well as the tea served in bone china..

What started as a private indulgence soon became a fashionable social affair: by the 1880s, afternoon tea had become an established social event for the upper and middle classes, with ladies wearing formal gowns, gloves, and hats for tea in public venues or when visiting others’ homes.

In present-day Britain, afternoon tea has evolved to offer a variety of options to suit different preferences and occasions:

Traditional Afternoon Tea typically includes:

• A selection of finger sandwiches (cucumber, egg and cress, smoked salmon, chicken, etc.)
• Scones with clotted cream and jam
• An assortment of cakes, pastries, and sweet treats
• A pot of tea (often with various options available)

Other popular variations include:

Cream Tea – A simpler version focusing on scones with clotted cream and jam, served with tea.

Champagne Tea – The traditional afternoon tea elevated with a glass of champagne or prosecco.

Themed Teas – Many venues offer themed experiences based on popular culture (like Alice in Wonderland), seasons, or holidays.

The Great British Debate: Devon or Cornish?

No conversation about afternoon tea is complete without addressing one of Britain’s most passionately contested food debates—how should one properly dress a scone? The answer depends on where you find yourself in England.

The Devon method dictates that clotted cream goes on first, followed by a generous spoonful of jam. This approach, dating back to the 11th century, likens the thick, indulgent clotted cream to a layer of butter—its rich texture acting as the perfect base for a fruity topping. Conversely, the Cornish method insists that jam is applied first, with a dollop of clotted cream on top. Some argue this method enhances the taste experience by allowing the sweet jam to coat the scone before being complemented by the smooth, buttery cream.

Which side do you take in the great scone debate? Do you stand with the age-old Devon tradition, or do you swear by Cornwall’s celebrated approach? Let us know in the comments!

A Taste of British Excellence

Regardless of how you enjoy your scones, one thing remains certain—afternoon tea is a celebration of British craftsmanship, featuring the finest artisan foods from across the country. From freshly baked treats to premium preserves and rich, velvety clotted cream, every element of a true afternoon tea experience deserves only the best ingredients.

Afternoon Tea at Home

At British Fine Foods we offer a variety of options delivered to your door. Whether you’re planning an elegant afternoon tea at home with friends and family or a countryside picnic. It can also make an ideal Mother’s Day gift or a treat for a staycation. Explore our selection of gourmet Afternoon Teas, Picnics, and Hampers, carefully curated to bring you the finest British artisan foods. Shop now and indulge in the elegance of this cherished tradition.

Find out more – visit our afternoon tea selection.

Mother's Day Sparkling Cream Tea Selection

£49.00

Quintessential Afternoon Tea Selection

£70.00

Afternoon Tea Hamper - With Award-Winning English Sparkling Wine

£100.00