It is arguable that there is nothing quite so British as the classic afternoon tea.
Borne out of necessity to bridge the gap between lunch and supper, it has blossomed from simple bread and jam into an event in and of itself — however, we’re sure we’re not the only ones who think it can sometimes feel a little antiquated. It’s an occasion that we covet, without a doubt, but we’ve created a few ways to make it feel a little more 2025 than 1825.
Simple Is Best
People often host afternoon tea experiences for big birthdays, Mother’s Day, or anniversaries. We think it’s a tradition that can (and should) be introduced more regularly into our routines to bring that distinct element of celebration to the everyday. We’re British- a sunny afternoon is a cause for celebration, no?
Afternoon tea doesn’t have to be an over-the-top affair. Sometimes, it’s as simple as enjoying a sweet treat in a sunny garden over a much-needed tête-à-tête with a friend. Ironically, we think that one of the best ways to update the classics is to go back to basics: high-quality, seasonal ingredients are key, whether it’s strawberries in the summer or elderflower in the spring.
For the classic scone course, why not add a savoury twist? BBC Good Food recommends walnut scones with fig jam and goat’s cheese as an alternative to the usual. Or, do away with scones altogether and opt for cheese-filled gougères or delicately coloured macarons for those with a sweet tooth.
A Good Idea in Principle
The principle of afternoon tea is simple: spending dedicated time with loved ones in a way that feels special, celebratory, and removed from the everyday- with an indulgent treat as the centrepiece.
Many people now don’t have routines that allow for a long afternoon break, so why not translate the tradition to modern life? Enjoy a wellness brunch with herbal teas, locally roasted coffee (we love Moon Roast), and nutritious, wholesome breakfasts as a special start to the day.
Or, take the classic European tradition of apéritif and enjoy a snack menu inspired by afternoon tea: think mini cheese scones, salmon blinis, and more. Pair with Hambledon Classic Cuvée, Espresso Martinis, or Earl Grey Sours before a summer barbecue or dinner party.
Or, simply invite a friend or loved one for homemade cake and a glass of English sparkling wine on a summer afternoon- it’s that simple.
There are, of course, many ways you could shape this but ultimately, it centres around good company and good food.
The Décor
How far you choose to go with decoration really depends on the space, the occasion, and indeed, your personal style. We know both people who prefer to let the food speak for itself, and those who delight in detailed, whimsical tablescapes that transport the diner from a South Downs garden to an episode of Bridgerton. There’s no right answer — and in fact, sometimes simple is best. It’s all down to personality.
The Pairing
For a summer afternoon, there’s no better pairing than our Classic Cuvée Rosé: a seasonal favourite that creates a vibrant partner to a wide variety of foods. Often described as British Summer Time in a Glass, the wine sings with notes of strawberry, redcurrant, and lemon, with a hint of brioche and cream on the finish. It’s truly ideal alongside decadent afternoon tea treats.
Overall, this is undoubtedly one of our favourite ways to spend an afternoon during the summer — and one has to appreciate the transition from practical sustenance to a celebration that, for many, is attached to cherished memories with loved ones.