TOP 10 EXPERIENCES

For England

2. Experience a Traditional Afternoon Tea

Few traditions are as quintessentially British as afternoon tea – a delightful ritual of fine china, dainty treats, and, of course, a perfectly brewed cup of tea. But did you know that this cherished custom has Portuguese origins? Catherine of Braganza, a Portuguese princess who married England’s King Charles II in 1662, is credited with introducing tea to the English court. A devoted tea drinker, she brought her love of this exotic beverage from Portugal, where it was already popular due to the country’s trade with China. Tea became the drink of choice among English aristocrats, paving the way for the elegant tradition we know today. To truly indulge in this experience, step into one of London’s iconic tea houses. At The Ritz, afternoon tea is a refined affair, served in the grand Palm Court, where chandeliers sparkle and live piano music sets the mood. The selection of loose-leaf teas, paired with freshly baked scones, clotted cream, and delicate finger sandwiches, ensures an unforgettable experience. Similarly, Fortnum & Mason, the purveyor of fine teas since 1707, offers a regal tea service in the Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon, where every sip feels steeped in history. Over at Claridge’s, the art deco setting provides a stylish backdrop to an indulgent spread of handcrafted pastries and exquisite teas from all over the world. Beyond London, the tradition of afternoon tea is just as cherished, especially in Bath, a city famed for its Georgian elegance and Roman heritage. Here, The Pump Room offers a unique tea experience, set within an 18th-century salon where visitors once gathered to “take the waters” of Bath’s natural springs. Pairing a pot of Earl Grey with warm scones and Bath buns – a sweet, spiced roll native to the city – makes for a truly authentic taste of Britain. The afternoon tea is a moment of pure indulgence, where time slows and conversation flows, sipping British tradition!