“There are few hours in life more agreeable than the hour dedicated to the ceremony known as afternoon tea.” – Henry James, The Portrait of a Lady
If there is one part of life that is stereotypically English, it is Tea.
The making, consumption and talk of tea is one topic that can’t escape our shores, no matter what. In the words of actor and singer Jack Buchanan “When the clock strikes four, everything stops for tea.”
In England, the history of high and afternoon tea dates back as far as the 17th century. While historians will argue as to where it originally came from, with France, China and India all claiming to have begun this historic tradition, at home, the concept of afternoon tea originates from King Charles II, following the re-establishment of the monarchy.
Helped by the influence of his Portuguese wife, Catherine of Braganza, tea soon became popular amongst the wealthier classes before sweeping across the country, becoming the drink of choice for the whole of society.
This tradition remains a luxury for most of British society today and, therefore, we decided to take to the streets of Brighton to find out where and how they serve afternoon tea in our seaside city.
To read our review of Little Bird’s Tea click here.
To read our review of The Grand’s Fish Tea click here.
To read our review of Seattle Hotel’s Tea Dance click here.
To read our review of Terre a Terre’s High Tea click here.
To read our Q&A with The Pavilion Tea Company’s Rachel Salvia click here.