Afternoon Tea: A Tradition Best Savoured at The NICI

Afternoon Tea is more than just a delightful mid-afternoon indulgence, it’s a quintessential and much-loved British tradition that has stood the test of time.

Typically served between 3pm-5pm, savour finely cut finger sandwiches, warm buttery scones with clotted cream and tangy jam, and an array of delicate, exquisite pastries. These offerings are all accompanied by a perfectly brewed pot of delicious tea, offering a moment of luxury, sophistication, and relaxation.

A Staple of British Culture

So, what makes Afternoon Tea such a cherished part of British culture? It’s the perfect solution that bridges the gap between lunch and dinner and provides an opportunity to socialise and relax in style.

At The NICI in Bournemouth, our Afternoon Tea is not just about the food; it’s about the entire experience. Located at our buzzing South Beach Restaurant & Bar, unwind against the stunning backdrop of the sea and escape into a world of pure luxury on the South Coast.

A Journey Back in Time

Tea first arrived in Great Britain in the mid-17th century via Portuguese and Dutch traders. Initially a luxury item that was solely reserved for the aristocracy, it quickly became an important status symbol of refinement for the aristocracy. However, by the 18th century, Britain had fully embraced tea-drinking, resulting in the establishment of Afternoon Tea as we know it today.

Anna Russell, the Duchess of Bedford, is known for being the pioneer of Afternoon Tea. Finding herself growing increasingly peckish during the long hours between lunch and a late evening meal, she looked to create a unique solution to keep her satiated, which featured a light meal of tea, bread, and small cakes. However, what began as a personal routine soon became a popular social event among the upper classes, as Anna began inviting friends to join her, and the idea spread.

The Social Phenomenon of Afternoon Tea

Once Afternoon Tea became a staple among the upper classes, it didn’t take long for the rest of high society to catch on. What started as a private affair transformed into a classy social gathering, complete with fine porcelain tea sets, fashionably dressed guests, and an air of nobility.

Afternoon Tea was a shared event that required fine attire for those in attendance. Think charming hats, elegant gowns and ladylike gloves, while men opted for formal suits for the occasion. However, by the late 19th century, Afternoon Tea was no longer exclusive to the select few. With falling tea prices and evolving social shifts, the tradition spread to the middle classes. Tea rooms and grand hotels began offering Afternoon Tea as a popular service, making it accessible to the masses.

Today, Afternoon Tea has evolved to cater to contemporary tastes, with themed offerings, Champagne options, and creative interpretations of classic treats. At The NICI, our Afternoon Tea remains rooted in tradition while embracing modern luxury, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all. While modern-day Afternoon Tea is a more relaxed affair, many luxury venues, including The NICI, encourage smart-casual dress to maintain a sense of occasion.

The Art of Afternoon Tea

A traditional Afternoon Tea features finely brewed teas, finger sandwiches (think cucumber, smoked salmon, and egg mayonnaise), freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, and an assortment of delicate cakes and pastries.

Decoding Afternoon Tea Etiquette

  • How long does Afternoon Tea last? Typically, 1.5 to 2 hours, allowing guests sufficient time to savour all an Afternoon Tea has to offer.
  • How many sandwiches per person? Ordinarily, three to four finger sandwiches per guest.
  • What’s the correct eating order? Start with the savoury choice of sandwiches, followed by soft and crumbly scones, and finish with artisan cakes.
  • Milk first or tea first? This will ultimately depend on your choice of afternoon tea. Some teas will not require milk, such as Darjeeling or Earl Grey, while English Breakfast Tea in a classic teapot should be left to brew for five minutes. Once brewed, pour some milk into your teacup before adding your tea of choice.
  • Jam or cream first on the scone? Ah, this is where the great north vs. south debate in Britain continues to rage on! In the south (and here at The NICI), the preferred method is jam first, then cream, in adherence to the traditions of our southern Devon neighbours. However, in the north and Cornwall, clotted cream is applied first, followed by jam. Whichever way you choose, the key is to enjoy every bite!

Afternoon Tea vs. High Tea: What’s the Difference?

Contrary to popular belief, High Tea is not just a posh term for Afternoon Tea. In comparison, High Tea originated among the working class and was a heartier evening meal consisting of meat, bread, and strong tea. Afternoon Tea, in contrast, has always been a light, elegant experience enjoyed in the afternoon hours.

The Enduring Charm of Afternoon Tea

Credit: Jelleke Vanooteghem (Unsplash)

Contemporary Afternoon Tea at The NICI isn’t just a tradition, but is a venue made for lively afternoons with great company, flowing conversation, and a touch of indulgence. Served every day from 3pm – 5pm, soak up the energetic atmosphere at South Beach Restaurant & Bar, sip on perfectly brewed tea (or perhaps a glass of Moët), and indulge in delicate sandwiches, delicious scones, and irresistible sweet treats – from delicious vanilla and peach pannacotta to the fruity Raspberry Opera Cake South Beach Cake of the Day. As the sun glistens over the Dorset coast, immerse yourself in our effortless Miami vibe, where the only thing on your agenda is pure enjoyment.

Why not make a day of it? Unwind at The NICI Spa, take a dip in the outdoor pool, or lounge on our sun-kissed terrace with cocktails in hand. You can even stay the night in one of our sophisticated, sea-view suites and wake up to the fresh ocean breeze.

Bring your friends, raise your teacup (or Champagne glass), and let The NICI provide a treasured afternoon at the coast.