Celebrate Afternoon Tea Week 2024 with These Unmissable Experiences

Afternoon Tea Week 2024 is here, running from 12th to 18th August, and it’s the perfect excuse to indulge in one of the most cherished Great British traditions. This week-long celebration is all about savouring the art of afternoon tea, a timeless ritual that has been enjoyed for generations. Whether you’re a seasoned tea enthusiast or just discovering the charm of this tradition, there’s no better time to explore the incredible variety of afternoon tea experiences available across the UK. From luxurious venues to themed teas and family-friendly gatherings, Afternoon Tea Week offers something for everyone to enjoy during this special celebration.

Afternoon Tea Week is an annual celebration dedicated to the quintessentially Great British tradition of afternoon tea. Taking place from 12th to 18th August 2024, this week-long event highlights the joy of indulging in afternoon tea, whether in the comfort of your own home or at one of the many tea rooms, hotels, and restaurants across the UK. It’s a time to honour the elegance and charm of this midday ritual, offering a perfect opportunity for tea lovers to explore a variety of unique and delightful experiences.

The History and Tradition of Afternoon Tea in the UK

The tradition of afternoon tea dates back to the early 19th century, credited to Anna, the Duchess of Bedford. At a time when the evening meal was served fashionably late, the Duchess found herself growing hungry in the late afternoon. To stave off her hunger, she began requesting a light meal of tea, sandwiches, and cakes to be served around four o’clock. This is one of many interesting facts about afternoon tea, as it quickly became a fashionable social event. By the mid-1800s, afternoon tea had become an established tradition among the British upper class.

Over the years, afternoon tea has evolved from a simple meal to a lavish occasion, often served with a variety of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and an assortment of cakes and pastries. The tradition has transcended social classes and is now enjoyed by people from all walks of life, both in the UK and around the world.

Why It’s Celebrated and What Makes It Special

Afternoon Tea Week is celebrated as a way to honour this cherished British tradition, bringing people together to enjoy the elegance and tranquillity of a classic afternoon tea. It’s a time to slow down, relax, and savour the finer things in life. The celebration also serves as a reminder of the cultural significance of afternoon tea, highlighting its role in British history and its continued popularity today.

What makes Afternoon Tea Week particularly special is the opportunity it provides to explore a diverse range of afternoon tea experiences. Whether it’s a luxurious setting in a five-star hotel, a themed tea event, or a casual tea with friends, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

For those looking to add a little extra sparkle to their afternoon tea experience, a tipsy afternoon tea offers the perfect treat. Combining the elegance of traditional afternoon tea with a splash of indulgence, these experiences are ideal for celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying a luxurious day out with friends.

Champagne Afternoon Tea

A classic choice for a boozy twist, Champagne Afternoon Tea is the epitome of sophistication. As you sip on a chilled glass of bubbly, you can enjoy a selection of delicate finger sandwiches, warm scones with clotted cream and jam, and an array of exquisite pastries. The addition of champagne elevates the entire experience, making it a truly memorable treat. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or just indulging in a moment of luxury, champagne adds that perfect touch of celebration.

Gin Afternoon Tea

For gin lovers, a Gin Afternoon Tea is the perfect treat. This experience often includes a refreshing gin cocktail or even a gin tasting flight alongside the traditional afternoon tea spread. The botanical notes of gin pair wonderfully with the savoury and sweet treats, offering a delightful twist on the classic tea experience. Some venues even incorporate gin into their dishes, such as gin infused cakes or desserts, providing a unique and flavourful afternoon tea that stands out from the rest.

Prosecco Afternoon Tea

Afternoon Tea with prosecco is another popular option, offering a light and bubbly alternative to champagne. The crisp, fruity notes of prosecco perfectly complement the delicate flavours of the afternoon tea menu. Whether enjoyed with friends or as a romantic outing, prosecco adds a touch of fun and frivolity to the experience. Many venues also offer bottomless prosecco options, allowing you to enjoy unlimited refills as you savour each bite of your afternoon tea.

Boozy Afternoon Teas are the perfect treat for those looking to combine the tradition of afternoon tea with the indulgence of a favourite tipple. Whether you prefer the elegance of champagne, the botanical charm of gin, or the lively sparkle of prosecco, there’s a boozy afternoon tea experience that’s sure to delight.

One of the best ways to make the most of Afternoon Tea Week 2024 is by combining this delightful tradition with a day out. By pairing your afternoon tea with an exciting activity or visit to a famous attraction, you create an all-rounded experience that’s both enjoyable and memorable. It’s the perfect way to spend time with loved ones, combining exploration and relaxation with the indulgence of sweet and savoury treats.

Brighton i360 and Afternoon Tea

For those on the south coast, a visit to Brighton i360 offers a unique experience. Glide up to 138 metres for panoramic views of the city and coastline, then follow it up with a relaxing afternoon tea. Enjoy a variety of sweet and savoury treats while overlooking the stunning Brighton seafront—a perfect combination for a day out during Afternoon Tea Week.

Alpaca Meet & Greet with Afternoon Tea

For a more unusual day out, why not opt for an Alpaca experience followed by afternoon tea? Spend the morning interacting with these gentle creatures, getting up close and personal with them in a peaceful countryside setting. After your alpaca encounter, relax with a delightful afternoon tea, where you can enjoy a range of freshly made sandwiches, scones, and sweet treats. This experience offers a unique twist on traditional afternoon tea week activities.

Harry Potter Studio Tour London with Afternoon Tea

For Harry Potter fans, there’s no better way to celebrate Afternoon Tea Week than with a visit to the Harry Potter Studio Tour in London. Explore the magic of the wizarding world with behind-the-scenes access to sets, costumes, and props from the films. After your magical adventure, indulge in an afternoon tea that’s sure to delight both muggles and wizards alike. The experience combines the excitement of the tour with the pleasure of savoury treats and sweet delights, creating a spellbinding day out.

Each of these experiences pairs the tradition of afternoon tea with a unique and enjoyable activity, making them perfect choices for a memorable and well-rounded day out during Afternoon Tea Week 2024. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a touch of magic, there’s an afternoon tea experience to suit every taste.

For those looking to add a touch of creativity and fun to their afternoon tea experience, themed afternoon teas offer the perfect occasion to enjoy a delightful twist on this classic tradition. These unique experiences are designed to immerse guests in a specific theme, making each tea more than just a meal—it's an adventure. Here are some fantastic themed afternoon tea ideas that you can explore during National Afternoon Tea Week.

Paddington Bear Afternoon Tea Bus

Step aboard the Paddington Bear Afternoon Tea Bus for a journey through the streets of London, where you can enjoy a delightful tea inspired by the beloved bear from Peru. As you travel past iconic landmarks, you’ll be treated to a selection of themed sandwiches, marmalade treats, and Paddington-inspired cakes. This is the perfect occasion for both children and adults to relive the charm of Paddington Bear while indulging in a delicious afternoon tea.

Sherlock Holmes Afternoon Tea

For those with a taste for mystery and intrigue, the Sherlock Holmes Afternoon Tea offers an experience like no other. Alongside a selection of traditional afternoon tea delicacies, guests are invited to solve a tabletop mystery inspired by the famous detective. It’s an interactive and immersive experience that combines the thrill of a good mystery with the elegance of afternoon tea. This is one of the more unique afternoon tea ideas, perfect for fans of the great detective or anyone looking for something a bit different.

These unique afternoon teas provide a fantastic way to celebrate Afternoon Tea Week, offering something special for every taste and interest. Whether you’re a fan of classic British literature or looking for an experience that’s a bit out of the ordinary, there’s an afternoon tea option that’s sure to make your experience truly memorable.

For those looking to combine the charm of afternoon tea with the excitement of exploring the UK's iconic landmarks, sightseeing with afternoon tea is the perfect option. There are several unique experiences that allow you to enjoy the best of both worlds, making your day out truly memorable.

One popular choice is an afternoon tea bus tour, where you can enjoy delicious treats while being driven around some of the most famous sights in cities like London. Imagine sipping tea and nibbling on scones as you pass by landmarks such as Big Ben, the Tower of London, and Buckingham Palace, all from the comfort of a vintage double-decker bus.

Another delightful option is the Afternoon Tea on the Thames, where you can enjoy a sightseeing river cruise while indulging in a traditional afternoon tea. As you glide along the river, you'll take in stunning views of the city, including the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, and Tower Bridge, all while savouring a selection of sandwiches, cakes, and, of course, tea.

For those who prefer a more nostalgic experience, a steam train tour with cream tea offers a unique journey through the British countryside. Enjoy the timeless pleasure of travelling by steam locomotive, paired with a classic cream tea, as you pass through scenic landscapes, charming villages, and historic sites.

These experiences blend the joy of sightseeing with the indulgence of afternoon tea, making them an ideal choice for anyone looking to celebrate Afternoon Tea Week in a truly unforgettable way.
 

If you’re in need of some serious pampering, there’s nothing quite like a spa day, especially when it’s topped off with a delicious afternoon tea. Imagine starting your day with a calming massage or a refreshing facial, easing away all the stress and tension. After your luxury spa treatment, the indulgence continues as you unwind over a delightful afternoon tea.

Picture yourself sinking into a cosy chair, enjoying delicate sandwiches, warm scones with clotted cream and jam, and a tempting selection of sweet treats. It’s the perfect way to extend that blissful, relaxed feeling.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself, a spa and afternoon tea combo is a brilliant way to escape the daily grind. It’s the kind of day that leaves you feeling refreshed, recharged, and completely spoiled. Whether you’re going solo, with friends, or with a loved one, this experience is all about taking time for yourself and enjoying every moment of it.

Indulging in a luxury afternoon tea is the perfect way to experience the finest in British tradition. Imagine sipping on refreshing mint tea while enjoying freshly baked traditional scones, served with clotted cream and jam, all in the elegant setting of a top-tier restaurant. This refined experience elevates afternoon tea to a new level, offering a delightful array of refreshments that cater to the most discerning tastes. Whether it's a special occasion or simply a treat, a luxury afternoon tea promises an unforgettable experience.

Vegan and gluten-free afternoon teas are becoming increasingly popular, with many venues now catering to these dietary requirements as standard. A Vegan Afternoon Tea offers a delicious array of plant-based food, from delicate sandwiches to indulgent cakes, ensuring everyone can enjoy this classic British tradition. Similarly, gluten-free options are thoughtfully prepared to provide the same level of flavour and enjoyment without compromising on taste. Whether you’re looking for a fully vegan experience or require gluten-free alternatives, you’ll find that many places now offer tailored menus to meet your needs, ensuring a delightful afternoon for all.

Celebrating Afternoon Tea Week doesn't always require a visit to a tea room or hotel; you can bring the charm and tradition of afternoon tea right into your own home. Whether you're hosting an afternoon tea party for friends and family or looking to treat someone special with thoughtful afternoon tea gifts, our selection of food hampers offers everything you need to create a delightful experience.

As Afternoon Tea Week 2024 unfolds, it offers a unique opportunity to indulge in one of the most cherished British traditions. Whether you choose to celebrate with a luxurious afternoon tea, embark on a sightseeing adventure, or host a charming tea party at home, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. This week is the perfect excuse to slow down, savour delicious treats, and create lasting memories with friends and loved ones. So why not explore the incredible variety of afternoon tea experiences on offer and make this Afternoon Tea Week one to remember?