History of Afternoon Tea

  
It all started in the 1800's when Anna, the 7th Duchess of Bedford who, at the time was a close friend of Queen Victoria and a prominent figure within London society complained of "having that sinking feeling" during the late afternoon.

She wanted something small to satisfy her hunger, nothing too large just something to see her through till dinner time.

  
During the 1880s upper-class and society women would change into long gowns, gloves and hats for their afternoon tea which was usually served in the drawing room between four and five o'clock.

To explore the world of fashion and tea, have a read of our article 'Dressing for Tea'.

The afternoon tea tradition was born inside the houses of the rich and fortunate but once summer came around they wanted to take this fabulous time of day outside into their beautiful gardens.