What's the difference between Afternoon Tea and High Tea?

High Tea vs. Afternoon Tea: A Classic British Tradition Explained

Tea has long been a cherished ritual, particularly in Britain, where the traditions of afternoon tea and high tea have become iconic. While both involve a delightful selection of tea and snacks, they differ significantly in history, timing, and presentation. If you’ve ever wondered what sets them apart, read on for a detailed comparison of these two beloved British tea traditions.

What is Afternoon Tea?

Afternoon tea is the more refined of the two traditions. It is often associated with the British upper class and is credited to Anna, the Duchess of Bedford, in the early 19th century. The Duchess, experiencing a "mid-afternoon slump," began to request tea and light snacks in the afternoon, which soon became a social event among her peers. By the 1860s, afternoon tea had become a popular custom among the aristocracy.

When is Afternoon Tea Served?

Afternoon tea is typically served between 3:30 and 5:00 PM. It is a light meal designed to tide over guests until dinner, which in Britain is usually served later in the evening, around 7:00 PM or later.

What’s on the Menu?

Afternoon tea is all about elegance and variety. The spread typically includes:

• Tea: A selection of loose-leaf teas, including black, green, and herbal varieties.
• Finger Sandwiches: Light and delicate sandwiches with fillings like cucumber, smoked salmon, and egg.
• Scones: Served warm with clotted cream and strawberry jam, scones are the star of any afternoon tea.
• Pastries and Cakes: A selection of small cakes, biscuits, and pastries, including items like Victoria sponge, fruit tarts, and éclairs.

Afternoon tea is usually served on a tiered stand, with the sandwiches on the bottom tier, scones in the middle, and cakes and pastries at the top, all artfully arranged.

The Atmosphere

Afternoon tea is typically served in an elegant setting, often in a drawing room or hotel lounge. It is a leisurely, social occasion, complete with fine china, silverware, and perhaps a well-dressed crowd. This tradition exudes an air of refinement, making it an ideal way to spend time with friends or guests in a relaxed but chic atmosphere.

What is High Tea?

High tea, despite its name, is a more substantial meal and was originally a working-class tradition. It was enjoyed by factory workers, miners, and other laborers in the 19th century after a long day of work. The term "high" refers to the height of the table where the meal was served, as opposed to the low tea tables used for afternoon tea.

When is High Tea Served?

High tea is traditionally served between 5:00 and 7:00 PM, closer to dinner time. It was meant to serve as both an afternoon snack and an early evening meal for the working class, typically to satisfy hunger after a long day's labor.

What’s on the Menu?

Unlike the light fare of afternoon tea, high tea is a more substantial affair. A typical high tea menu includes:

• Hearty Savories: Cold meats like roast beef, ham, or pies such as steak and kidney, along with cheese and pickles.
• Tea: A strong, robust black tea, often served with milk.
• Bread and Butter: Simple but essential, usually accompanied by chutneys or jams.
• Scones: As with afternoon tea, scones may also be served, but they’re accompanied by more substantial dishes.
• Cakes and Biscuits: Similar to afternoon tea, but there may also be heavier desserts, like fruit cakes or sponge cakes.

The meal is typically more filling, with the focus on satisfying hunger after a long day’s work. Unlike the delicate sandwiches of afternoon tea, high tea includes more hearty, savory foods.

The Atmosphere

High tea is generally less formal and is often served at a regular dining table rather than in a drawing room or parlor. It’s a more relaxed, familial event, where people can enjoy a filling meal together. The atmosphere can be casual, and the focus is more on nourishment and practicality rather than ceremony.

Key Differences Between High Tea and Afternoon Tea