What can you expect when enjoying Afternoon Tea in Swale?

Afternoon Tea is a tea-related ritual, introduced in Britain in the early 1840s. Evolving as a mini meal to stem the hunger and anticipation of an evening meal at 8pm.

Afternoon Tea is a meal composed of sandwiches (usually cut delicately into 'fingers'), scones with clotted cream and jam, sweet pastries and cakes. Interestingly, scones were only introduced in the twentieth century.

Afternoon Tea was developed as a private social event for ladies who climbed the echelons of society. It was only when Queen Victoria engaged in the Afternoon Tea ritual that it became a formal occasion on a larger scale, known as 'tea receptions'. An open 'at home' invitation to visit between 4pm and 7pm, during which guests could come and go as they pleased; this was the genesis of the Afternoon Tea as we know it.

In England today Afternoon Tea is usually enjoyed as an occasional indulgence or to celebrate a special event such as a birthday, or a pre-wedding or baby shower party with a group of friends.

Across Faversham, Sittingbourne or on the Isle of Sheppey it is an ideal treat as part of a visit to many of our small cafes, coffee shops, tea shops, restaurants and hotels offering an Afternoon Tea experience.

On this page we highlight for your choice a selection of places where you can enjoy an Afternoon Tea.

Note: Some of the venues operate seasonally and may not provide full menu options at all times. Please always 'know before you go' and check with your destination choice before travelling to ensure you get the enjoyable experience we want you to have in Swale.