Our Mother's Day Afternoon Tea Guides
Best Afternoon Tea for Mother’s Day
If your mum is always the one making sure everyone’s got a cuppa, it’s time to return the favour with a Mother’s Day afternoon tea. With elegant finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and a pot of her favourite brew, afternoon tea is the perfect way to make her feel special. Click here to find the best locations for afternoon tea this Mother’s Day!
Mother's Day Afternoon Tea FAQs
How to host a Mother’s Day afternoon tea at home?
With the help of a Mother’s Day hamper or the supplies you have at home, you can have a cosy and delicious afternoon tea at home for your mum! Other than a delicious pot of tea and a bottle of prosecco, here are some ideas of what you'll need for a fabulous feast:
- Sandwiches: try cucumber, ham and egg mayo fillings for that posh crustless vibe, or go wild with smoked salmon and cream cheese to be extra posh!
- Cakes: display a selection of lemon drizzle slices, angel cakes, brownie bites or cupcakes.
- Scones: every good afternoon tea needs scones slathered with jam, clotted cream or fresh fruits! It's the perfect way to top off your tea.
What is afternoon tea?
Afternoon tea is a delightful British tradition that originated in the mid-19th century. While tea had been enjoyed for centuries, it became a staple in England thanks to King Charles II in the 1660s.
The concept of afternoon tea, however, was born in 1840 when Anna, the seventh Duchess of Bedford, experienced those mid-afternoon hunger pangs that hit between lunch and dinner. To satisfy her cravings, she began enjoying a light snack of tea, bread, butter, and cake, which soon became a social event.
By the 1880s, afternoon tea had evolved into a fashionable affair, with upper-class ladies dressing in elegant gowns, gloves, and hats, and gathering between 4 and 5 pm for tea and treats.
What are the rules for afternoon tea?
When it comes to afternoon tea, there are a few key rules to keep in mind to avoid any tea-time faux pas.
First, keep your pinky down while sipping - it's all about being graceful. Stir your tea gently in a straight line (no swirling allowed!), and remember to add milk before the tea, a tradition that dates back to the days of delicate cups.
When it comes to scones, spoon the clotted cream and jam onto your plate first to avoid making a mess.
As for the food, feel free to enjoy finger foods, but skip inspecting the sandwiches—if you touch it, you take it! Start with the sandwiches and save the sweets for later.
Above all, whether you're in a posh setting or at home, the most important rule is to enjoy the moment. Relish every bite, savor the conversation, and make the most of your afternoon tea experience!
What do you wear to afternoon tea?
For afternoon tea, it's best to dress smart-casual. Accessories like hats or scarves can add a touch of elegance, but it's all about comfort while maintaining a polished look. Often women opt to wear a nice dress or a skirt with a blouse, while men might wear a collared shirt with trousers. If your afternoon tea is a formal setting, you might want to bring a blazer or a smart jacket to gently elevate your look.