Afternoon Tea vs High Tea: Explained

Laughter and conversation flow easily around the table when you enjoy a quintessentially British afternoon tea in London! If you’re planning a holiday in the city, make sure to enjoy a delectable afternoon tea experience with your luxurious stay at The Chilworth London Paddington, a true boutique retreat in the heart of the city.

While it’s hard to miss how much London loves its tea, it’s also important to know the difference between a high tea and an afternoon tea. Read through our blog to understand the difference between the often interchangeably used terms afternoon tea and high tea and then decide how would you like your tea!

Afternoon Tea and Its Origin 

Established by Anna, the Duchess of Bedford in the 19th century, the tradition of sitting down for afternoon tea wasn’t seen as a treat. It was born as a snack, filling the gap between lunch and dinner.  It started when the peckish Duchess, would ask for tea, finger sandwiches and scones clotted with cream and cakes. Soon, the private affair became more of a social occasion when the Duchess invited her relatives and friends to join her for tea.

Today, afternoon tea is more than just a quick snack between meals served midafternoon with a light food menu. Experience the time-honoured tradition for yourself as you indulge in a scrumptious afternoon tea near Paddington and know why it is such a loved tradition in Britain.

‘High Tea’ and It’s Origin

For the working class, during and after the two world wars, sitting down for a hot cup of tea with a bite to eat had to wait until late evening. After a long day at work, people naturally felt the need to eat something more filling than just sandwiches and cake with their much-awaited hot tea, and this is where the term high tea originated.

Difference Between the Two Traditions

Afternoon tea is also known as low tea, as back in the day it would be served on low comfortable chairs and tables. It is usually served around 4pm paired with sandwiches, pastries, scones, and cake.

On the other hand, the term high tea is to describe a full meal served with tea at a high table and high-back dining chairs. It is served later in the afternoon around 5 to 7pm, usually with baked food and vegetables, which many people in Britain also refer to as supper or dinner.

While both afternoon tea and high tea have the same purpose, to socialise and spend quality time with your friends and family, afternoon tea is a more formal gathering than high tea. It is a ritual that represents time spent together in lovely tea rooms. So, make sure to plan your afternoon tea experience at one of the exquisite restaurants near Paddington London, accompanied by a good conversation and moments shared with your cherished ones.

Both high tea and afternoon tea traditions are steeped in rich British history, and the differences as subtle as they may be, are a result of their origins. Explore and experience the charm of London’s best offerings and spend some time enjoying a flavourful afternoon tea experience to remember. After a day full of great experiences, relax at an immersive urban spa near Paddington to enjoy a fulfilling day out in the city.