Victorian Afternoon Tea

Our Victorian afternoon tea took place on March 22nd at the Neill-Cochran House Museum, a setting that so naturally lends itself to this kind of experience. With its historic character and mid-19th century origins, it provides the perfect backdrop for a gathering inspired by Victorian traditions.

This event was designed to reflect not only the food and customs of the time, but also the spirit behind them. Queen Victoria placed a strong emphasis on home, family, and togetherness. She was known for bringing people around the table, encouraging shared meals, conversation, and a sense of connection. That warmth and conviviality helped shape the Victorian era, and many of those values still carry through in how we think about hospitality today. Queen Victoria loved family and she was set on bringing family members together at meal times. She is credited with many traditions which we still carry on today, such as admirable table manners.

Afternoon tea itself began with Anna, Duchess of Bedford, a lifelong friend of Queen Victoria, who introduced a light refreshment to bridge the long gap between lunch and dinner. What started as a simple habit soon became a daily ritual, and eventually a cherished social occasion. Queen Victoria embraced it as part of her routine, and it became widely associated with her reign. Her preferences were simple and timeless — tea sandwiches and slices of Victoria sponge, the light, jam-filled cake named in her honour. She of course enjoyed pots of Indian black tea.

For this event, the menu was carefully chosen to reflect those same traditions. Guests enjoyed cucumber sandwiches, along with savoury pies and pasties, which were very popular during Victorian times and commonly found on Victorian tables as a practical and satisfying option. Alongside these were slices of Victoria sponge, prepared in a traditional style, light and layered with jam, in keeping with how it would have been enjoyed historically. This Victorian menu differs slightly from the more modern afternoon tea we serve in our tearoom today.

Dressing for the occasion was also an important part of the experience. Afternoon tea was never just about the food; it was an event in itself. Gentlemen would typically wear suits, while ladies arrived in dresses, often with hats or gloves. It wasn’t about being overly formal, but about showing care, respect, and appreciation for the occasion.

That sense of occasion continues today. Many still enjoy the tradition of dressing up a little, taking a seat at the table, and slowing down to enjoy tea properly. It’s a reminder that sometimes the simplest moments — when given time and attention — become the most memorable.

Our sold out Victorian tea event took place on March 22nd, and it was wonderful to see such enthusiasm for this style of gathering. It was sold out this year, and we hope to make it an annual event, offering others the opportunity to experience and enjoy a Victorian afternoon tea in the future.

“In nothing is the English genius for domesticity more notably declared than in the institution of this festival — of afternoon tea. The mere chink of cups & saucers tunes the mind to happy repose.” — George Gissing

Living history - Stepping back in time to dress up and take afternoon tea the way the Victorians like to.