Grow Your Own Magazine

Taking afternoon tea is one of those little things that most of us may not regularly do any longer, but which nevertheless remains an important part of our cultural identity. But while the clinking of cups on saucers and the squelch of jam and cream on firm scones may evoke a quintessential 'Britishness', few may realise how relatively recent an addition the afternoon tea is to this country's menu.

Reportedly introduced to our shores by Anna, the 7th Duchess of Bedford around 200 years ago - to combat "that sinking feeling" resulting from the fact that lunch as such hadn't been invented - the art of tea drinking had already become a virtual artform in Japan over the course of many centuries.

Despite flourishing in Victorian society, the 20th Century's faster pace of life saw the British spin on the afternoon tea - as opposed to the rather more prosaic 'high tea' - being reserved for a special occasion. Of course, this makes it all the more special when you do find the time to indulge.

So, if you are after a slice of a bygone age, what should you expect - and where can you find it?

In addition to the traditional fine tea served, ideally in a silver pot and with delicate china cups, you will usually find a selection of dainty sandwiches - including variations on the trademark cucumber filling - presented with their crusts cut off. But standing proud at the centre of the perfect afternoon tea is the scone. While it may not be the most prepossessing of cakes, the homemade scone - typically offered in either plain or fruit varieties - really comes alive when those other two essential ingredients of clotted cream and jam are added. It may be a significant helping of calories, but that's part of the fun - and it wouldn't be a special occasion without indulging yourself more than you would ordinarily. If you have room, there is likely to be a selection of cakes as well, all served up on a tiered platter.

You could do a passable impression of this at home, of course, but for the full experience, how about treating yourself in the surroundings of an elegant hotel?

Many hotels offer afternoon tea packages, and you can get an idea of offers around the country by using a website like afternoontea.co.uk. But for choice and subtly upmarket glamour, central London is hard to beat. While this is in part due to its magnetism for tourists, you don't have to be a visitor to the country to enjoy what the tearooms of the capital have to offer.

With London accessible by train to many of us, a trip which takes in an afternoon tea could be a great idea.

In Mayfair alone, many famous names stand out. You could enjoy Art Deco elegance at Claridge's, understated luxury at The Connaught, or stylish refreshment at The Dorchester, while afternoon tea at The Ritz is synonymous with unfettered opulence.

Meanwhile, The Lanesborough at Hyde Park Corner was named as the top London venue in 2008 by The Tea Guild, while The Berkeley in Knightsbridge offers a contemporary, innovative take on the traditional. Don't forget Piccadilly's Fortnum and Mason, which has a wide range of choice on its numerous afternoon tea menus.

And for the man about town, how about the capital's sole 'men only' afternoon tea? The appropriately named Mandeville Hotel in Marylebone promises a suitably "masculine" experience, complete with whiskies and backgammon.

If you are travelling to the capital, you are likely to want to make reservations for afternoon tea - indeed, it is essential with some establishments.

Paying by credit card could be a convenient way to make the experience come true. Meanwhile, it may be useful to bear in mind that some credit cards offer an interest-free introductory period – making it even easier to manage the cost.

Issued by Sainsbury's Finance