A Cup of History: Exploring the Magic of High Tea
Posted on: Wed 5 Feb 2025

There’s something undeniably magical about dressing up, heading to an elegant venue, and indulging in the refined tradition of high tea. The delicate clinking of fine china, the artfully arranged tiers of scones, pastries, and finger sandwiches, and the warmth of freshly brewed tea create an experience that feels both luxurious and nostalgic. But as we indulge in these elegant surroundings, many of us may not realise that the origins of high tea are much humbler than the decadent rituals we know today.
The Humble Beginnings of High Tea
In 19th-century Britain, high tea emerged as a practical meal for the working class, providing hearty nourishment after long workdays. With staples like bread, cheese, pickles, cold meats, boiled eggs, fruitcake and strong black tea (energising and affordable), it was a functional and filling break served at a “high” dining table, distinct from the refined afternoon tea of the aristocracy. Over time, this humble meal laid the foundation for today’s luxurious high tea experience.
The Evolution of High Tea
As Britain’s middle class expanded in the 19th century, high tea evolved by combining workers’ hearty meals with aristocratic refinement. Afternoon tea, popularised by the Duchess of Bedford, featured dainty treats for the upper classes, while middle-class families embraced delicate sandwiches and sweets, transforming high tea into the luxurious ritual now celebrated globally.
Today’s high tea often features an array of both sweet and savoury treats—fluffy scones with clotted cream and jam, dainty finger sandwiches, miniature quiches, and indulgent pastries. Many modern high tea experiences now include a touch of luxury with a glass of champagne, adding to the sense of occasion. These delicacies are beautifully presented on tiered stands, accompanied by pots of carefully brewed tea that complement every bite and enhance the overall experience. In many places, particularly outside the UK, the term “high tea” has taken on a new meaning, becoming synonymous with a refined and elegant afternoon experience.

Queen Victoria’s Tea Rituals and Royal Influence
High tea gained further cultural significance through its association with Queen Victoria, a known tea connoisseur. Her favourite tea was Earl Grey (mine is French Earl Grey), a blend she shared with Queen Elizabeth II, who also adored its fragrant notes. Legend has it that Queen Victoria’s strong-willed personality extended to her tea habits—if the tea wasn’t to her liking, she would reportedly throw the cup across the floor.
Victoria was also known for her daily outings in the fresh air, regardless of the weather. Her servants often accompanied her, ensuring a proper tea setup wherever she went. Even during her carriage rides, they would find a suitable spot to prepare her tea, creating a portable ritual that reflected her unwavering commitment to her favourite beverage.
This royal connection helped solidify tea’s place in British culture, blending the practical origins of high tea with a sense of regal indulgence that continues to inspire modern tea ceremonies.
How to Dress for High Tea
The experience of high tea is made even more special when accompanied by the right attire. Traditionally, high tea calls for elegant and refined clothing, though the level of formality may vary depending on the venue. Smart-casual ensembles is generally my preference. Ultimately, the key is to embrace a balance between style and comfort, adding a touch of timeless elegance to complement the atmosphere.
High Tea Etiquette: The Essentials
Proper etiquette is part of what makes high tea such a refined experience. Knowing the do’s and don’ts ensures you can enjoy this tradition with confidence and grace.
Napkin Placement and Usage
Once you sit down, place your napkin on your lap with the folded edge closest to your body. Keep the napkin folded and avoid exposing the used side to others. If you need to dab your mouth, use a corner of the napkin discreetly. When leaving the table temporarily, place the napkin on the back of your chair. At the end of the meal, the napkin should be neatly placed to the left of your setting.
The Table Setting and Cutlery
For afternoon tea, you will typically have a fork, knife, spoon, teacup, and saucer. The base of the cutlery should be placed about 2 cm from the edge of the table. If you use any cutlery, avoid placing it back on the tablecloth once used. While most afternoon tea items are bite-sized and do not require cutlery, you may use a knife to cut larger portions if necessary.
Milk or Tea First?
When preparing your tea, always pour the tea first. Historically, in Queen Victoria’s time, servants drank from clay cups that would crack if hot tea was poured directly into them, so they added milk first as a coolant. However, with the use of porcelain today, tea-first is the preferred method.
Enjoying the Delicacies
Traditionally, afternoon tea begins with savoury bites, followed by sweet cakes and ending with scones. However, some prefer to enjoy their scones warm at the start of the meal, and this is perfectly acceptable. To properly eat a scone, avoid using a knife to cut it: instead, gently twist and pull it apart by hand.
When sharing tea, place small portions of cream and jam on your plate before spreading them onto the scone. Whether you prefer cream or jam first is up to personal taste. Queen Victoria favoured cream first, followed by jam, but both methods are widely accepted. One important rule is to never sandwich the two scone halves together.
Posture and Poise
Posture plays a significant role in maintaining the elegance of high tea. Good posture reflects confidence and refinement. Legs should be positioned either with knees and ankles together or in the “Duchess slant,” where the legs are angled diagonally across.
By mastering these elements of high tea etiquette, you not only honour tradition but also elevate your overall experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the grace and charm of this timeless ritual.

A Celebration of Tradition and Indulgence
Despite its humble beginnings, high tea has become a cherished ritual that transcends time and class. Whether you’re enjoying a casual family gathering or a formal afternoon outing, the essence of high tea lies in its ability to bring people together over good food, warm conversation, and a sense of shared tradition.
High tea is also ideal for special occasions, such as birthdays and celebrations, where cakes, pastries, and a glass of champagne create a festive atmosphere. The blend of delicious treats and elegant surroundings makes it the perfect way to mark life’s memorable moments.
So, the next time you find yourself indulging in high tea, take a moment to appreciate its rich history from the working-class tables of 19th-century Britain to the luxurious tearooms of today. What was once a meal of necessity has become a celebration of elegance and indulgence, proving that even the simplest traditions can evolve into something magical.
————————————————————
Reviewed by: Virginie the Frenchie
Image: Author’s own – High Tea at Hardy’s Verandah – Mount Lofty House – Adelaide Hills
Author: Virginie Forest