Afternoon Tea or High Tea? This is the difference

Was it really Anna, Duchess of Bedford who invented Afternoon Tea around 1800 because she got a “sinking feeling” between breakfast and dinner and for that reason ordered mid-afternoon tea and cakes from her servants? Or is this just a legend? The difference between an Afternoon Tea and a High Tea lies mainly in the origin, timing and composition of the dishes. Whereas Afternoon Tea emphasizeslight bites and tea, a High Tea is heavier and includes a combination of tea, sweet and savory dishes. You choose a mid-afternoon tea. A High Tea is served from late afternoon to early evening. A High Tea is meal replacement.

What is an Afternoon Tea? 

As hip as High Tea and Afternoon Tea are, it dates back to the Victorian era, or the early ^19th century. Afternoon Tea began as a light refreshment between lunch and dinner, but soon became a “serious” affair in addition to entertaining. In the conservatory or in the “drawing room,” the hostess poured tea and served small savory snacks. It gave ladies at that time opportunity and permission to get together and have a chat. In fact, afternoon tea was at the root of a fashion phenomenon. In the ^mid-19th century, ladies exchanged their tight corset for a “tea dress”: loose-fitting, flowing and made of silk or chiffon. This was worn without a corset. Just a reason to enjoy an Afternoon Tea!

High Tea or Low Tea

Afternoon tea was originally called “low tea” because it was served on low tables. The High Tea originates from the working class where it was a heavy meal consisting of meat pies, bread, cheese and other savory dishes eaten for dinner and is meant to be a nutritious and filling meal after a day’s work.

Composition of High Tea and Afternoon Tea

Now Afternoon Tea includes a selection of small pastries, scones with clotted cream and jam, and Sandwiches (often with cucumber, smoked salmon, egg salad, or ham). At a High Tea,  you can also expect heavier, savory dishes such as hot pies, pies and savory bites with meat or fish. Both Afternoon Tea and High Tea involve tea.

High Tea at Pilkington’s in Den Bosch

Pilkington’s has been serving the most extensive High Tea in Den Bosch for over 30 years: savory bites are followed by sweet delights, scones with clotted cream and marmalade as well as the famous, warm apple crumble. It is also possible to pick up our High Tea for your home. Easily order High Tea at Home and enjoy the best High Tea in the Netherlands at your home.