A Heavenly High Tea

I must admit right off the bat, that I am a fairly newcomer to the ceremony of a lush High Tea. It wasn’t until my eldest went to University in the United Kingdom did this lovely tradition percolate to the forefront. Ohhhh… how I do love the etiquette of it, the lovely delicacies and the overall prettiness of a well planned High Tea.

When it was my turn to host our monthly book club meetings, and given the time the author spent at Cambridge university, I thought what a perfect theme for the book ‘Educated’ by Tara Westover. (read the book review by Astra Groskaufmanis in our Winter is Coming post)

The origins of High Tea are often debated. Some believe the term high tea was due to the fact that originally it was eaten at high tables. Others would argue that it was because it was taken later in the day, or the “high” part of the day.

The creator of the afternoon tea is often credited to Anna Maria Russell , Duchess of Bedford and close friend of Queen Victoria in the mid 1800’s. During this time it was fashionable to eat dinner late, around 8:00 pm and the Duchess often complained of having that “sinking feeling” in the latter part of the afternoon and so ordered her butler to prepare a light snack.

Originally it was just a few small bites, but eventually expanded to a multi course social event observed by the upper classes.

Though I have partaken in High Tea at luxury hotels and restaurants, I have never planned and hosted one myself.

Typically, there are 3 courses:

• Savoury: small sandwiches
• Scones: with sweet butter, clotted cream and jams
• Sweets: delectable and very pretty

It was great fun perusing many menus and websites to develop an interesting assortment of delicacies for my book club

The absolute must have for any HighTea is the iconic cucumber sandwich. With paper-thin slices of cucumber, fresh dill and cream cheese it is hard to have but just one!

Honeyed blue cheese with red pear and roasted pecans were a particular favourite with the book club group.

A bite-sized brioche BLT takes a casual sandwich to the upper crust.

Sweets are one of the highlights of a High Tea and not only are they delectable, but their prettiness makes them the crowing glory!

I do especially love the elegance of High Tea. With champagne and an assortment of teas served, my High Tea provided me the opportunity to bring out and enjoy my collection of fine bone china tea cups (many inherited from my grandmother). Pinkie up please 😉

Also, given the formal nature of a High Tea, it was fun to totally embrace the moment and don one of my cute little fascinators.

If you have never partaken in a High Tea, I completely recommend it. The classic tradition of it, and the array of deliciousness are simply brilliant.

And if you have partaken, please share your favourite venue here.

Xoxo – Sandra

Photo credits:

31daily

timeout.com