Guides & Updates

There’s something quietly powerful about crafting your own afternoon tea. It’s not just about the food, it’s about slowing down, setting a mood, and making someone feel truly special. Whether you’re marking an anniversary, planning a proposal, or simply creating a pause in the week to connect, a DIY romantic afternoon tea is the perfect way to bring elegance home.

Afternoon tea is one of life’s simple pleasures, a chance to slow down, indulge, and enjoy good company. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, a little planning ensures a smooth and memorable experience. Here’s how to make your afternoon tea outing effortless from start to finish.

If afternoon tea is a British institution, then having it in a royal-approved venue is the equivalent of a national treasure hunt. For those who love a bit of pomp with their pastries, these iconic locations have hosted everyone from actual monarchs to fictional queens of the screen. Here, afternoon tea becomes an occasion set within gilded lounges, beneath chandeliers, and served with the utmost refinement.

Think you’ve seen it all when it comes to posh afternoon teas? Think again. While household names like The Ritz get plenty of attention, the UK is full of lesser-known venues offering world-class afternoon tea with just as much sophistication minus the crowds.

If you’ve never tried luxury afternoon tea before, prepare to enter a world where time slows down and elegance takes centre stage. A British tradition since the 19th century, afternoon tea has evolved into a curated experience of refinement, particularly at the UK’s iconic hotels and heritage venues. But what exactly should a first-timer expect?

When hosting or attending afternoon tea, the food may get the spotlight, but the tea itself is the true foundation of the experience. The right tea not only complements the food but also sets the tone for the entire occasion. Whether you're new to the tradition or curious to upgrade your teaware, understanding the key types of tea and how to serve them will enhance your afternoon tea offering.

Creating your own afternoon tea at home can be a wonderfully rewarding experience. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, hosting friends, or just treating yourself, building the perfect menu is key to a successful event. Here’s how to balance savoury, sweet, and tea with ease even if you’re new to it all.

Afternoon tea may seem simple on the surface, pour, sip, and nibble. But beneath the surface lies a series of subtle social cues that can shape the entire experience. These aren’t the kind of rules you’ll find printed on a menu or explained by your server. They’re the quiet cultural codes that make afternoon tea feel special, and sometimes even a little intimidating to first-timers.
In this post, we explore the unspoken behaviours that help you move confidently through any tea setting from traditional hotels to modern cafés.

Tea may be a global drink, but nowhere is it more ritualised than in Britain. While many people use terms like afternoon tea, high tea, and cream tea interchangeably, they actually describe very different experiences. If you’re planning to indulge in a tea outing whether in the UK or abroad, knowing the difference can help you choose the perfect setting.