High tea: The best of British afternoon teas

The tradition of afternoon tea in Britain is steeped in history. It originates in the early 19th century, and legend has it that Anna, Duchess of Bedford, was the lady who set the trend. This grand dame had been feeling somewhat ravenous one day during the long gap between lunch and dinner and ordered a tray of tea, bread, butter, and cake to be brought to her room in the late afternoon. This little feast soon became a habit: she began inviting friends to join her and the afternoon tea ritual quickly caught on among the aristocracy and chattering upper classes around Britain.

It then became a symbol of refinement and social status, and by the mid-19th century, afternoon tea had become a fashionable social event, providing an opportunity for the elite to showcase their finest tableware, indulge in delicacies, and share the latest gossip.

It was the Victorians who turned it into an art form. Spreads became more elaborate, complete with the variety of sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, cakes, pastries, and, of course, a selection of teas which comprise the traditional menu we still love today.  The Victorians were also known for their strict adherence to etiquette, and rules governing the proper way to hold a teacup, stir one's tea, and consume sandwiches and pastries were meticulously followed.

Throughout the 20th century, afternoon tea continued to hold a special place in British culture, even as societal norms and lifestyles evolved. And what was once the exclusive domain of the wealthy elite became a tradition enjoyed by people from all walks of life.

Today, afternoon tea remains a beloved British institution, cherished for its elegance, charm, and sense of occasion. While the essentials of afternoon tea have remained largely unchanged, there’s always something new to tantalise your taste buds.  Many of the master chefs at PoB hotels have focused their culinary wizardry on the creation of sublime new afternoon tea menus, and are constantly experimenting with new flavours and presentations, putting modern twists on classic recipes while still paying homage to tradition.

Discover our pick of the very best hotels for afternoon tea in the UK…

For a lavish afternoon tea party to remember, head to the glamorous Gravetye Manor, an English country house with a Michelin-starred restaurant and the best hotel for afternoon tea in Sussex. Here, you can enjoy a glass of English Sparkling Wine and nibble on a decadent spread of handmade sandwiches, plump scones, and sumptuous cakes and pastries —available for groups all year round.

From May to September, afternoon tea is served in the charming Oak Gazebo in the hotel’s garden with views of the lake; and in the chillier months, from October to April, you’ll enjoy your feast in one of the Private Dining rooms. £65 per person. Book online or call +44 (0)1342 810567.

Fancy nibbling on pretty pastel-coloured macarons while watching the wild waves of the North Sea?

Afternoon tea at Seaham Hall, a gorgeous Georgian country house hotel on the Durham coast, is a thoroughly chic affair. Here, you can revel in a refined selection of delicate sandwiches and bitesize sweet and savoury treats whipped up by the chefs and served with fragrant loose leaf teas or glasses of fizz if you’re celebrating a special occasion, or just for the joy of it.

This fine repast is served Thursday-Sunday, from 12:00-15:00. Afternoon tea £32pp; with a glass of bubbly £40pp.  Book a table or call +44 (0)1915 161 400

Step back in time and savour a deliciously elegant and traditional afternoon tea experience at Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa, an 18th century Palladian mansion house near Bath. This lavish haven’s glittering attractions include the Michelin-starred Restaurant Hywel Jones, and its afternoon tea service also cuts the mustard.

Choose from the Full Afternoon Tea — a banquet including dainty handmade patisserie — for £48pp or for extra fizz, the Champagne Afternoon Tea £68pp. There’s also a Children’s Afternoon Tea with savoury bites and sweet treats, including strawberry jam and vanilla doughnuts, chocolate brownies and an iced honey cupcakes, £28 per child. Book online or call (0)1225 742 777.