“There are few hours in life more agreeable than the hour dedicated to the ceremony of afternoon tea.” - Henry James
Time for Tea ?
Afternoon tea was first started by Anna Maria Russell, the Duchess of Bedford, in 1840. Since the gentry ate their dinners well into the evening hours, the Duchess was hungry between her noon meal and her evening meal and wished to eat a little something to hold her over til dinner. What began as a simple cup of tea, with cake, bread and butter soon grew to become the afternoon tea we know today.
Afternoon teas are served in cafes, restaurants and hotels, one doesn’t have to look far to find and enjoy them. I’ve enjoyed afternoon tea in several places in the United Kingdom and Ireland, at Kilworth House in Leicester, The Dalmahoy Hotel and Country Club in Edinburgh, The Royal Yacht Britannia in Edinburgh and Kilronan Castle in County Roscommon, Ireland.
Afternoon teas are amazing, not just the food, but the experience itself, which can last a couple of hours. They can’t be rushed! They’re not just a luxury, they’re a wicked indulgence! It’s an experience you don’t want to miss! The servers bring out 3 tiered stands with food on each plate. Tea starts with savory sandwiches of egg, cucumber, or smoked salmon, on the bottom plate. Once the food on the bottom plate has been eaten, it’s time to eat the food on the middle plate. The middle plate has delicious scones served with clotted cream and jam, sometimes berries arranged on the plate too. The top plate holds the sweets, cakes, pastries and tarts. Coffee and tea are served with the meal and a glass of champagne follows, at an extra fee, of course! Are you hungry? Don’t forget to book a reservation! You won’t want to miss this wonderful opportunity!
Mary-Gail Durst
Travel Advisor
Voyages Limoges Travel – Centre Holidays Inc (Head Office)
TICO # 50018114
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