You’ve seen it on menus. You’ve heard it on TV. And, yes, even hotel receptionists at upscale establishments sometimes get it wrong. We’re talking about “High Tea” vs. “Afternoon Tea.” Many people think that “high tea” is just a fancier term for “afternoon tea,” but here’s the truth: they’re completely different experiences.
If you’ve ever walked into a lavish tea room expecting finger sandwiches and scones, only to be met with hearty plates of meat and potatoes, you’re not alone. The confusion is widespread — even among those who should know better.
So, let’s set the record straight. In this blog, we’ll explore the history, purpose, and key differences between high tea and afternoon tea, so the next time someone asks you to “join them for high tea,” you’ll know exactly what to expect (and maybe even gently correct them).
The History of Afternoon Tea
Afternoon tea is the elegant, refined tea experience you’re likely picturing. It dates back to the early 19th century and is credited to Anna, the Duchess of Bedford. Back then, it was common for people to have just two main meals a day — breakfast and dinner — with dinner often being served as late as 8 or 9 p.m.
The Duchess, feeling peckish in the late afternoon, requested a tray of tea, bread, butter, and small cakes to be brought to her room. This personal ritual caught on, and soon it became a full-fledged social activity for the upper class. Friends were invited to join, and the tradition grew into a full social affair.
Over time, the simple tea and bread evolved into a more elaborate selection of treats, including finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and a variety of pastries and sweets. The tea itself was typically a light black tea, like Darjeeling or Earl Grey, though today you’ll find many options available.
The History of High Tea
Now, here’s where it gets interesting. While "afternoon tea" was a refined experience for the wealthy, high tea had an entirely different origin. High tea was a working-class meal, and it had little to do with "fancy" tea service.
The term "high tea" comes from the height of the table at which it was served — a high dinner table — as opposed to the low, lounge-style tables used for afternoon tea. It was a heartier, more substantial meal served in the early evening (around 5 or 6 p.m.) for workers who needed something filling after a long day.
While upper-class households were nibbling on scones and tea cakes, the working class was sitting down to a full-on meal, which could include:
Hearty, hot dishes like pies, roasted meats, fish, and stews
Breads and butter
Cheese and pickles
Potatoes or other starchy vegetables
Hearty desserts like cakes, puddings, or fruit pies
In modern times, the term “high tea” has become confused with "fancy tea," but in reality, high tea is more like a supper or an early dinner. If you’re thinking "meat and potatoes," you’re on the right track.
Key Differences Between High Tea and Afternoon Tea
Here’s a clear breakdown of the major differences between high tea and afternoon tea so you can finally set the record straight.
Category | Afternoon Tea | High Tea |
Time of Day | Mid-afternoon (2 p.m. - 4 p.m.) | Early evening (5 p.m. - 6 p.m.) |
Purpose | Light refreshment / Social gathering | Substantial meal after work |
Served On | Low, lounge-style tables | High, dinner-style tables |
Who Eats It? | Upper class / Social elite | Working class / Laborers |
Food Served | Finger sandwiches, scones, sweets | Hot meals (meat, potatoes, pies) |
Type of Tea | Light black teas, herbal teas | Strong black teas |
Overall Vibe | Elegant, social, refined | Practical, hearty, filling |
Why Do People Get It Wrong?
If “high tea” was originally a working-class meal, how did it become synonymous with luxury? Marketing, plain and simple.
Restaurants, hotels, and tea rooms (especially in the U.S.) have mistakenly used "high tea" to sound fancier or more upscale than “afternoon tea.” Since "high" sounds like it must be "high-end," many people assume it refers to something more formal or luxurious. In reality, afternoon tea is the elegant experience that people are looking for when they think of "tea at The Ritz."
Common Myths About High Tea:
“High tea is the fancy version of afternoon tea.” (False — it’s the working-class version.)
“High tea is served in upscale hotels and tea rooms.” (False — that’s usually afternoon tea, sometimes misnamed.)
“If it’s tea served in the evening, it’s high tea.” (Partly true — high tea was served in the early evening, but only as a meal for workers.)
How to Correct Someone (Kindly) When They Call It "High Tea"
Sometimes, you’ll hear someone say, “Oh, let’s have high tea at that cute little tea shop!” And while part of you might want to stage a full-on etiquette intervention, there’s a kinder way to set the record straight. Here’s a simple, polite way to explain it:
“Actually, afternoon tea is the one with the scones, finger sandwiches, and dainty treats. High tea is more of a working-class supper with heartier meals like meat and potatoes. I know it’s confusing because a lot of places mislabel it, but if you’re looking for that elegant tea experience, afternoon tea is the one to book.”
Which One Should You Book?
If you’re looking for an elegant experience with scones, clotted cream, and mini sandwiches, book an afternoon tea. This is the experience you’re imagining when you think of a tea room or a hotel tea service. If you’re visiting London, Paris, or a luxury hotel like The Ritz or The Four Seasons, you’re almost certainly booking afternoon tea, even if it’s mislabeled as “high tea.”
If you’re looking for a more hearty meal experience — think pies, meat, and potatoes — high tea is what you’re after. While true high tea is less common in the U.S., it’s still practiced in certain parts of the U.K.
Quick Recap: What’s the Difference?
High Tea = A hearty, filling meal eaten at a high dining table (like dinner) for the working class.
Afternoon Tea = A light, elegant, social experience eaten at a low, lounge-style table for the upper class.
Final Thoughts
Next time you’re invited to "high tea" at a fancy hotel or a tea house, you’ll know the truth. What you’re actually being offered is afternoon tea, with its finger sandwiches, scones, and delicate cakes. Meanwhile, high tea is a far heartier affair rooted in the traditions of working-class families.
If you want to impress your friends (or kindly correct the next receptionist), you can share this little nugget of wisdom. And if you’re booking a tea experience, now you know exactly what to expect.
At Poised & Proper, we offer Afternoon Tea Etiquette classes where you can learn how to confidently navigate a traditional tea experience with poise and polish. Ready to elevate your tea-time skills? Visit our website to learn more or book a class using our class calendar. We’ll have you mastering tea etiquette in no time! 🫖🍰
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