How to Afternoon Tea like a Brit.

We all know the feeling. It's 3pm, your stomach is rumbling, your eyes are getting heavy and you're already dreaming of getting home, putting on your pyjamas and settling in with a good book, tv show (or a little doomscrolling).

As it turns out, Anne, Duchess of Bedford, knew the feeling all too well. Back in the 1840s, with dinner not served until 8 or 9pm, she complained of a 'sinking feeling' in the afternoon. Her solution? Tea and a few light bites to keep her going. Soon enough, she began inviting friends to join her, and what started as an afternoon snack became a grand British tradition. 

Of course, the British couldn't possibly enjoy tea and cake without establishing a few rules along the way. So, what exactly is the proper etiquette for afternoon tea? 

First Things First, the Sandwiches

There's a method to working your way through a tiered afternoon tea stand. Start at the bottom with the savoury sandwiches, usually cucumber, egg mayonnaise or smoked salmon. Then move on to the scones, saving the cakes and pastries for last. Think of it as a three-course meal, only with more tea.

Pinkies Down, Please

Despite what you might have seen in period dramas, sticking your little finger out while sipping tea is actually considered poor etiquette. Hold your teacup by the handle, keeping your pinkie comfortably tucked in. And when stirring, move your spoon gently back and forth rather than in circles, avoiding any clinking against the china.

Milk Before or After?

Ah, the great British debate. Historically, milk was sometimes poured first to protect delicate china from cracking under the heat of the tea. Today, when using a teapot, pouring the tea first allows you to judge how much milk you'd like. Either way, it's unlikely to cause a scandal.

The Scone Situation

Now for the question capable of dividing an entire nation. Jam or cream first?

In Cornwall, it's jam followed by clotted cream. In Devon, it's cream followed by jam. Both have very strong opinions on the matter.

Traditionally, you should break your scone into smaller pieces with your hands, adding jam and cream as you go. Whatever you do, don't sandwich the two halves together and eat it like a burger.

What About the Napkin?

Place your napkin on your lap once seated, and use it to gently dab your mouth when needed. If you need to leave the table briefly, place it on your chair. When you've finished, leave it loosely folded beside your plate. No elaborate origami required.

And Finally, Take Your Time

Afternoon tea was never intended to be a hurried affair. It's an opportunity to catch up with friends, enjoy a leisurely afternoon and indulge in something sweet. So put your phone away, pour another cup and enjoy the occasion.

After all, if the Duchess of Bedford could turn an afternoon snack into a national tradition, surely we can indulge in a little tea, cake and gossip.

Enjoy 15% off the Cambridge Collection when you stay at University Arms, or 20% off Afternoon Tea when you purchase a bag from Cambridge Satchel.