What Is Afternoon Tea (and How It Differs from High Tea)

What Is Afternoon Tea (and How It Differs from High Tea)

If you've ever joined us at The Tea Trolley and wondered whether our service is considered afternoon tea or high tea, you're not alone! These two terms are often used interchangeably today — but they actually describe two very different traditions.

Even our most elaborate specialty teas — the ones that feature warm savories and heartier hors d'oeuvre-style bites — are still, by tradition and by presentation, considered Afternoon Tea. Here's why.

The Origins of Afternoon Tea

Afternoon tea began in early-19th-century England as a refined social ritual, not a full meal. Anna, the Duchess of Bedford, is credited with introducing the idea when she requested tea and light refreshments between lunch and dinner to stave off her "sinking feeling" in the late afternoon.

Soon, this elegant pause became fashionable among high society — complete with fine china, tiered trays, lace tablecloths, and lively conversation.

At The Tea Trolley, this spirit of grace and leisure still defines what we do: a chance to slow down, sip, and savor in a beautiful historic setting.

What Defines Afternoon Tea

A proper Afternoon Tea is about presentation, pacing, and pleasure — not portion size. It traditionally features:

• Tiered trays with a balance of savories, scones, and sweets

• Fine china teapots filled with freshly brewed loose-leaf tea

• Elegant, bite-sized portions served in courses

• A leisurely setting meant for conversation, not quick dining

At The Tea Trolley, every tier tells a story — from savory tea sandwiches and warm bites, to fresh-baked scones with jam and clotted cream, to delicate desserts that crown the experience.

Even when we add heartier hors d'oeuvres, warm pastries, or seasonal specialties, our focus remains on balance, artistry, and the graceful pacing that define afternoon tea.

Then What Is "High Tea"?

Despite its lofty name, High Tea was originally the evening meal of the working class, served at the "high" dinner table after a long day's work. It included hearty, practical fare — meats, breads, pickles, and sometimes pie — accompanied by a pot of strong tea.

It was called "high" not for its elegance, but for the height of the table at which it was served. By contrast, afternoon tea was enjoyed at lower lounge tables — hence "low tea."

So, when you picture High Tea, think "hearty supper with tea," not "dainty tiered tray."

Why The Tea Trolley Serves Afternoon Tea

Our entire experience — from the porcelain teacups to the delicate pacing of courses — is rooted in the tradition of afternoon tea.

Even our specialty themed teas (like our Wizarding World of Tea or Candlelit Christmas Tea) may feature hot savories and more substantial hors d'oeuvres, yet the essence remains the same:

A beautifully presented, multi-course ritual meant to be enjoyed slowly, in good company, with attention to every charming detail.

That's the heart of Afternoon Tea — and it's the heart of The Tea Trolley.

Experience Authentic Afternoon Tea

Ready to experience the true art of afternoon tea for yourself? Join us at The Tea Trolley for an authentic Victorian tea experience that celebrates the timeless tradition of afternoon tea.

Whether you're interested in our classic Royal Afternoon Tea, one of our seasonal specialty teas, or our upcoming Christmas events, we invite you to reserve your table and discover why afternoon tea remains one of life's most elegant pleasures.