The origins of High Tea

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High Tea has become a popular tradition around the world but do you know where it all began? The origins of High Tea can be traced back to the 19th century in England. During this time, the working class would have a simple meal of tea and bread or a light snack in the afternoon. Meanwhile, the upper class would enjoy a more substantial meal later in the day.

In the mid-1800s, Anna Maria Russell, the Duchess of Bedford, began to feel hungry in the afternoon and would request a tray of tea and light snacks. This soon became a regular habit, and she began to invite friends to join her. This practice soon spread among the upper class and became known as ‘Afternoon Tea’.

High Tea, on the other hand, was a more substantial meal that was enjoyed by the working class after a long day of work. It typically consisted of hot dishes, such as meat pies, fish and chips, and other savoury dishes, served with tea. High Tea was eaten at a high table and was a more formal and substantial meal compared to Afternoon Tea.

Over time, the lines between Afternoon Tea and High Tea became blurred, and today the term ‘High Tea’ is often used to describe an elaborate tea service with both sweet and savoury items served on tiered platters.

At our hands-on High Tea cooking workshops, you will learn how to create a beautiful and delicious High Tea spread that will impress your guests. From savoury finger sandwiches to sweet treats such as scones and cakes, I will show you how to make everything easily at home, from scratch. You will also learn how to brew the perfect cup of tea and how to present your High Tea spread in a beautiful and elegant way.

With Mothers Day just around the corner, our High Tea cooking workshops make the perfect gift for any mother who loves to entertain. Spend a few hours learning new skills and creating memories with your Mum while enjoying a delicious High Tea spread that you made together.

Book now to secure your spot in our High Tea cooking workshops and give your Mum a Mothers Day gift she will never forget. She will leave with new skills, a beautiful High Tea spread to share with family and friends, and memories that will last a lifetime.

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