Check out the secret to hosting the perfect high tea experience, including tips on setting the scene, crafting the menu, and adhering to proper etiquette.

High tea, often associated with elegance and sophistication, is more than just a meal. It's a cherished tradition steeped in history and refinement. Whether you’re hosting a high tea at home or attending one at a swanky venue, creating the perfect high tea experience involves attention to detail, a touch of creativity, and a love for the finer things in life. Here’s a guide to help you enjoy or host the perfect high tea experience. Read on!

Choose the right venue

If you're hosting high tea at home, select a location that offers comfort and elegance. A dining room, garden, or even a cosy living room can work perfectly. For a more formal experience, consider booking a table at a high tea venue, such as a hotel or specialty tea house known for its afternoon tea service.

Create an elegant table setting

The key to a perfect high tea is an elegant table setting. Use a crisp tablecloth and a matching set of porcelain. Arrange the table with tiered cake stands to display the food, and use dainty tea cups and saucers. Add a touch of class with polished silverware and cloth napkins. Fresh flowers or a small vase can also enhance the visual appeal of the table.

Crafting the menu

Select a variety of teas

A quintessential high tea experience features a selection of teas. Offer a variety to cater to different tastes, such as classic Earl Grey, Darjeeling, English Breakfast, and an herbal option like chamomile or mint. Make sure to brew the tea properly, keeping it hot and serving it with milk, sugar, and lemon slices.

Bake or buy scones

Scones are a highlight of high tea. Serve them fresh and warm, with clotted cream and fruit preserves on the side. Traditional flavours include plain, raisin, or cheddar. If you’re not up for baking, many bakeries offer high-quality scones that can be purchased and served.

Offer assorted pastries and cakes

Complement the savoury options with a selection of sweet treats. Think of delicate pastries, such as macarons, éclairs, and tarts, as well as small cakes like lemon drizzle or Victoria sponge. These should be light, visually appealing, and easy to eat with one hand.

Etiquette and presentation

Serve with style

Presentation is crucial in high tea. Arrange the food on tiered stands, with sandwiches on the bottom tier, scones in the middle, and pastries and cakes on the top tier. This allows guests to easily access what they want and adds to the aesthetic appeal of the tea setting.

Follow proper etiquette

High tea etiquette includes pouring tea for guests, serving from the left, and offering milk and sugar on the side. When serving scones, ensure they are broken apart rather than sliced. Encourage guests to enjoy the tea and food at a leisurely pace, savouring each bite and sip.

Add a touch of elegance

To make the experience truly special, consider adding small touches like a string quartet, a selection of classical music, or even a themed dress code. These details elevate the event and create a memorable atmosphere.

The perfect high tea experience is a blend of refined tradition and personal touches. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or attending one, the key lies in creating an elegant setting, offering a variety of teas and treats, and paying attention to details. With a bit of planning and a touch of creativity, you can enjoy a delightful high tea that is both charming and sophisticated. So, gather your friends, set the table, and indulge in the timeless tradition of high tea.