Who doesn't like an Afternoon Tea? We even have a national Afternoon Tea week which takes place in August. In 2015 it’s on from the 10th to the 16th August.
Did you know that tea was introduced to England by King Charles II and his Portuguese wife back in the 1660s, but it wasn’t until 1840 that the concept of Afternoon tea was introduced by Anna, the seventh Duchess of Bedford, because she used to get hungry in the afternoon (dinner was usually served late at night in those days). The Earl of Sandwich has already come up with the idea of putting a filling between two slices of bread. By the 1880’s Afternoon tea became so popular that people would actually get dressed up for the occasion for 4pm.
So, what can you expect in your Afternoon Tea? Traditionally, the menu usually consists of: dainty sandwiches, scones served with clotted cream and preserves, cake and pastries, and tea (though some do prefer coffee). And for those extra special occasions, you can even get served a glass of champagne. However, some places do offer a menu with a twist.
Harrogate has several lovely, delicious venues where you can enjoy this English tradition. We all know what amazing Afternoon Tea is offered at Betty’s. However, you might not know about these other great local venues, some who offer a menu with a twist. In no particular order, our top 10 suggestions are:
Why not try making your own Afternoon Tea at home? Here is a little recipe for making scones
If you love Afternoon Tea so much? Maybe you’d like to explore Yorkshire on an Afternoon Tea Trail?
