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The History Of Afternoon Tea

Afternoon tea is more than just a meal; it’s a cherished tradition that embodies grace, sophistication, and a touch of indulgence. Its origins are steeped in history, with roots that trace back to the 19th century in England. The story of afternoon tea is as elegant as the practice itself, and it has evolved over the years to become a beloved ritual for many worldwide.

The Birth of Afternoon Tea

The concept of afternoon tea is credited to Anna, the Duchess of Bedford, in the early 1840s. During this time, it was common for the upper class to have only two main meals a day—breakfast and dinner. Dinner was typically served late in the evening, leaving a long gap between meals. The Duchess, finding herself hungry in the afternoon, began requesting a light meal of tea, bread, butter, and cakes to be served in her private chambers. This simple act quickly became a social event, as the Duchess invited friends to join her.

As the trend caught on, afternoon tea became an important part of British social life. It was an opportunity for women to gather, exchange gossip, and showcase their finest china, linens, and, of course, their most elegant attire. The ritual of afternoon tea became a symbol of refinement and social standing, and it soon spread beyond the aristocracy to the middle and upper-middle classes.

The Rise of Afternoon Tea in London’s Grand Hotels

By the late 19th century, the tradition of afternoon tea had moved beyond the private homes of the aristocracy and into the public sphere, particularly in London’s grand hotels. One of the first hotels to offer afternoon tea was The Langham, which opened its doors in 1865. The Langham’s luxurious setting provided the perfect backdrop for what was becoming a fashionable social event. Soon, other prestigious hotels such as Claridge’s and The Savoy followed suit, each offering their own lavish versions of afternoon tea.

This shift marked the beginning of afternoon tea as a commercialized event, accessible to the upper class and anyone who wished to partake in the experience. Hotels began to compete by offering increasingly elaborate tea services, complete with opulent surroundings, live music, and a more extensive selection of delicacies. Afternoon tea became not just a meal but an event, a chance to see and be seen, and an essential part of London’s social calendar.

Afternoon Tea Becomes a Global Phenomenon

As afternoon tea became more popular in London, its appeal spread beyond the city and across the globe. In many countries, the tradition was adapted to local tastes and customs, but the core elements—tea, light refreshments, and a sense of occasion—remained the same. What was once an intimate gathering in a private home had transformed into a public event that could be enjoyed by anyone with a taste for refinement.

The commercial success of afternoon tea in hotels and tea rooms solidified its place as a beloved tradition that continues to draw people together to this day. Whether in a historic hotel in London or a contemporary tea room halfway around the world, the experience of afternoon tea retains its allure, offering a moment of indulgence and elegance.

The Components of Afternoon Tea

Traditionally, afternoon tea consists of a selection of finely cut sandwiches, scones served with clotted cream and jam, and a variety of cakes and pastries. The tea itself is the centerpiece, often served in delicate porcelain teapots and accompanied by milk, sugar, and lemon. Each element of the tea service was carefully curated to reflect the host’s taste and status, making afternoon tea an art form in its own right.

Afternoon Tea Today

Today, afternoon tea is celebrated worldwide, often in luxurious settings that honor its rich history. From grand hotels to charming tea rooms, the ritual has been preserved and elevated, allowing us to experience a taste of the past while enjoying the comforts of the present. It’s a tradition that invites us to slow down, savor the moment, and appreciate the finer things in life.

One such place where the timeless tradition of afternoon tea is beautifully preserved is Leonie’s at Hotel Swexan in Dallas. I recently had the pleasure of shooting my Afternoon Tea Guide there, capturing the elegance and ambiance that make Leonie’s the perfect setting for this beloved ritual. The guide, which you can find at the end of this post, offers a comprehensive look at everything you need to know to enjoy an afternoon tea experience with grace and style.

And Now, Let’s Steep in a Bit of Etiquette Together

As you explore the fascinating etiquette of afternoon tea, I invite you to dive into my Afternoon Tea Guide, shot at the exquisite Leonie’s at Hotel Swexan. Whether you’re a seasoned tea enthusiast or new to the tradition, this guide will help you embrace the elegance of afternoon tea in all its glory. You can also check out Leonie’s at Hotel Swexan for an unforgettable afternoon tea experience.

Book your table at Leonie’s here!

Enjoy and may your next tea be as refined and delightful as the first sip.-

Molly T.

Thank you to Olga Anderson Photography for working with me on this project. You can view more of her work on Instagram here.

Thank you to Hotel Swexan and Leonie’s for allowing us to experience the afternoon tea service and shoot in the venue. You can learn more about Hotel Swexan and Leonies here.