Tea was first introduced to Britain in the 17th century by the East India Tea Company and has remained quintessentially British ever since. In fact, recent reports show that an incredible 165 million cups of tea are drank daily in Britain! Without a doubt, tea drinking is routed deep in British history and culture.
During the 19th century, afternoon tea became a popular trend. In those days, most people tended to consume two meals a day, breakfast and an evening meal. One day, Anna, the Duchess of Bedford, felt so tiresome and hungry in the late afternoon that she requested a selection of sandwiches, cakes and tea. The idea soon cottoned on and the concept of afternoon tea was born.
Afternoon tea has remained so popular because it is simply delicious! It also serves as a great social-gathering event, uniting families and friends. Afternoon tea usually begins with something savoury, such as sandwiches, followed by scones accompanied with jam and cream, and then a selection of cakes. It is served using the best of silver and washed down with delectable cups of tea from all over the world.
There are about 1500 different teas available to purchase within the UK, each with their own unique style, taste and colour. Amongst some of the favourites, there is Earl Grey, Assam Black, Ceylon / Srilanken Black, Darjeeling and Chamomile. Tea is usually taken with milk and sweetened with sugar if desired.
In 1717 came Thomas Twining's introduction of tea houses for ladies. This came shortly after the East India Tea Company had initially spawned the concept of drinking tea. Since then, and to this day, tea houses and restaurants throughout Great Britain and much of the world have strived to deliver the perfect afternoon tea. Private Members' Club, Home House, situated in Portman Square, London, serve a truly delicious afternoon tea, against a backdrop of pure Georgian charm at Number 20. Home House is definitely worth a visit for afternoon tea, not just for a 'cuppa' but for the glorious neo-classical staircase showcasing the best of imperial Britain. It is one of the most opulent entrances in British architecture and is the perfect setting for the quintessentially British afternoon tea.
During the 19th century, afternoon tea became a popular trend. In those days, most people tended to consume two meals a day, breakfast and an evening meal. One day, Anna, the Duchess of Bedford, felt so tiresome and hungry in the late afternoon that she requested a selection of sandwiches, cakes and tea. The idea soon cottoned on and the concept of afternoon tea was born.
Afternoon tea has remained so popular because it is simply delicious! It also serves as a great social-gathering event, uniting families and friends. Afternoon tea usually begins with something savoury, such as sandwiches, followed by scones accompanied with jam and cream, and then a selection of cakes. It is served using the best of silver and washed down with delectable cups of tea from all over the world.
There are about 1500 different teas available to purchase within the UK, each with their own unique style, taste and colour. Amongst some of the favourites, there is Earl Grey, Assam Black, Ceylon / Srilanken Black, Darjeeling and Chamomile. Tea is usually taken with milk and sweetened with sugar if desired.
In 1717 came Thomas Twining's introduction of tea houses for ladies. This came shortly after the East India Tea Company had initially spawned the concept of drinking tea. Since then, and to this day, tea houses and restaurants throughout Great Britain and much of the world have strived to deliver the perfect afternoon tea. Private Members' Club, Home House, situated in Portman Square, London, serve a truly delicious afternoon tea, against a backdrop of pure Georgian charm at Number 20. Home House is definitely worth a visit for afternoon tea, not just for a 'cuppa' but for the glorious neo-classical staircase showcasing the best of imperial Britain. It is one of the most opulent entrances in British architecture and is the perfect setting for the quintessentially British afternoon tea.
About the Author:
Home House is a social hangout for people from all walks of life, which is part of its uniqueness. Quite unlike many other of the best social hangouts in London, Home House is a place to enjoy leisure time or the perfect spot for a working day. Home House is one ofthe places to have afternoon tea in London.
