Tradition of English Tea Time
English tea time is a tradition that has been around for generations. As the legend goes, an English nobleman, who did not want to be disturbed while taking his afternoon tea, created the tradition in the 17th century. The time has stayed with us since.
Tea time is a relaxing and peaceful time of day. People can come together and enjoy a cup of tea with friends and family. The tradition is deeply meaningful to the English people and is often done in formal settings.
Tea time usually occurs around 4 PM, but this can vary depending on the time zone or on the whims of the tea hosts. During tea time, guests will be served a selection of hot and cold teas, such as green, black, white, and herbal teas, along with milk and sugar for those who wish it.
Biscuits and other tea snacks like crumpets, sandwiches, cakes, scones, and tarts may also be served. These snacks give guests something to nibble on while sipping their tea.Tea time is traditionally a sophisticated affair. Tea hosts will often set up beautiful tables with fine china, silver, and other fine decorations.
The main purpose of English tea time is to let people take a mindless pause in the day, take a comfort drink and eat some rich sweets. It is, aside from a snack, a social event to bring people together and create a time to enjoy conversation and connect with each other. Although the tradition began hundreds of years ago, it is still seen today as a time to relax and help foster meaningful connections.
An increasing number of tea-time hosts are now offering themed experiences, such as vintage tea parties, complete with finger sandwiches, scones with cream and jam, and petit fours. These parties make tea time more fun and interesting, offering guests a chance to dress up in period attire and to enjoy different types of tea.
English tea time is a delightful and cherished custom that no one should miss out on. Everything from how tea time is served to the conversations being had make this custom unique and special. For those that haven’t experienced English tea time, it’s high time you did!
