10 High Tea Rules The UK Doesn’t Mess Around With

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10 High Tea Rules The UK Doesn’t Mess Around With

High Tea is a beloved tradition in the UK, a perfect blend of delightful treats and strict etiquette. Here’s a fun look at the top 10 rules you need to know if you want to enjoy high tea just like the British do. From how to handle your cup to the order of eating your treats, these tips will help you fit right in at any high tea table.

1. Never add milk before the tea is brewed

Making a perfect cup of tea is serious business here in the UK. One major rule? Never pour milk into your cup before the tea has finished brewing. The reason is pretty straightforward: adding milk too early cools down the water and interferes with the brewing process. You want that tea steeping properly to release all its flavors and aromas. So, patience is key! Let the tea brew, and then add milk to taste.

2. Use clotted cream, not whipped cream on scones

When it comes to scones, clotted cream is the way to go. Unlike whipped cream, clotted cream is thick and velvety, providing just the right texture and richness to complement the scone. Spread a generous dollop of clotted cream on your scone before adding a layer of jam. This combination creates a mouth-watering treat that’s hard to resist.

3. Jam goes on first—or does it?

This is a hotly debated topic in the UK! In Cornwall, the tradition is to spread jam on the scone first followed by clotted cream. In Devon, it’s the opposite. Either way, you’re in for a treat. Just make sure you’re enjoying it the local way, wherever you are, to avoid any faux pas.

4. Hold your cup by the handle only

When sipping tea, always hold your cup by the handle. It might seem tempting to cradle it for warmth, but doing so is a no-no in high tea etiquette. Holding the cup by the handle keeps your fingers from getting too hot and maintains the elegance of the tea-drinking experience.

5. Don’t clink your spoon while stirring

Stirring your tea is fine, but the key is to do it quietly. Avoid clinking your spoon against the cup. Gently swish the spoon back and forth without touching the sides of the cup. This prevents any unnecessary noise that can disrupt the peaceful tea atmosphere.

6. Never leave the spoon in your cup

Once you’ve stirred your tea, make sure to remove the spoon and place it on the saucer. Leaving it in your cup is not only improper, but it can also be impractical when taking a sip—no one wants a spoon in their face!

7. Napkin on the lap, not tucked in

As soon as you sit down for tea, unfold your napkin and place it on your lap. Tucking it into your shirt or dress isn’t just seen as poor manners, it also takes away from the formal and refined setting of high tea.

8. Eat savouries before sweets

At high tea, the unwritten rule is to eat your savouries first, like sandwiches and quiches, and then move on to sweets. This helps to pace your appetite and enjoyment of the different flavors being presented throughout the tea service.

9. Don’t dunk your biscuits—no matter how tempting

Dunking biscuits in tea might be tempting, especially if you love a softer, soggier biscuit. However, it’s seen as a bit too casual for high tea. Save the dunking for your tea at home.

10. Dress like you’re not just popping to Tesco

High tea is an occasion, so dress the part! You don’t need to be in a ball gown, but definitely step it up from everyday casual. Think smart, neat, and respectful of the elegant setting. You’ll feel more in tune with the experience when you’re dressed appropriately.