Many people use the terms afternoon tea and high tea as though they mean the same thing, but they refer to two very different British traditions. Afternoon tea is the lighter, more elegant ritual most people picture today, while high tea was historically a more substantial early evening meal served after the working day.
What is afternoon tea?
Afternoon tea began in the 19th century introduced to bridge the long gap between lunch and dinner. It is widely linked to Anna Maria Russell, the 7th Duchess of Bedford, who is said to have influenced a social aspect by inviting friends. Over time, it became a social occasion associated with refinement, leisure and hospitality.
Traditionally, afternoon tea includes delicate finger sandwiches, scones with jam and cream, cakes, pastries and, of course, tea served with care and presentation. It is often associated with elegant table settings, thoughtful hosting and a sense of occasion, which is why it still feels so relevant to luxury entertaining today.
What is high tea?
High tea was historically a more practical and filling meal served later in the day, often around 5 to 7 pm, particularly among working-class households. Rather than delicate pastries and small cakes, it usually included heartier dishes such as meats, bread, pies, eggs or vegetables, all served with tea.
The word “high” refers not to status or luxury, but to the height of the dining table at which the meal was served. Afternoon tea, by contrast, was sometimes called “low tea” because it was enjoyed at lower lounge or drawing-room tables.
What does afternoon tea symbolise?
Afternoon tea has come to symbolise far more than what is served on the table. It represents elegance, pause, conversation and the art of making time feel special through presentation, hospitality and shared experience.
It also carries a strong sense of British identity. Because it developed as a social ritual tied to refinement and leisure, afternoon tea remains closely associated with ceremony, celebration and understated sophistication, making it especially fitting for occasions such as garden parties, Wimbledon gatherings and summer entertaining.
Why it matters today
Understanding the difference between afternoon tea and high tea helps preserve the meaning behind both traditions. High tea speaks to comfort, practicality and nourishment, while afternoon tea continues to represent atmosphere, elegance and thoughtful entertaining.
At Raison d’Être we understand the relevance of afternoon and high tea; both of which sit naturally within a world of curated luxury, British craftsmanship and elevated hosting. It is not simply about tea itself, but about the surrounding details, from glassware and wines to beautifully chosen pieces that help transform a simple afternoon into something memorable.