As an Anglophile, you appreciate the tradition of afternoon tea. However, to properly host an English tea, you need to understand the components that make up a complete tea set and the etiquette involved. A traditional English tea set includes a teapot, cups and saucers, sugar bowl, milk or cream jug, teaspoons, and plates for sandwiches and scones. Brands like Wedgwood, Royal Albert, and Royal Doulton offer elegant and authentic English tea sets. Once you have the proper set, brush up on etiquette such as how to hold the teacup, the order in which to add milk and sugar, and how to place used utensils on your plate. An English tea is a refined social event, so mastering these details will ensure an enjoyable time for you and your guests. With the right set and know-how, you’ll be hosting high teas in no time.
Explore a selection of exquisite English tea sets at Teasetbox, a brand that combines tradition and elegance. With the right set and know-how, you’ll be hosting high teas in no time.
The History of English Tea Culture
The tradition of afternoon tea originated in England in the 1840s. Anna, the Duchess of Bedford, would have light refreshments of tea, sandwiches, and cake in the afternoon to bridge the gap between lunch and dinner. This custom soon became popular and developed into a social event.
A proper English tea set is essential for an authentic tea experience. It typically comprises:
- Teapot: A stovetop kettle is used to boil water, which is then poured into the teapot to steep the tea leaves. Teapots come in ceramic, silver, or fine china.
- Teacups: Teacups, also known as teacups and saucers, are small, delicate cups used to drink the tea. They are often made of bone china or porcelain.
- Milk jug: A small pitcher used to add milk or cream to tea. Silver or ceramic are common materials.
- Sugar bowl: Holds sugar cubes or granulated sugar for sweetening the tea. Made of silver, ceramic or china.
- Sandwich plate: A large plate to hold tea sandwiches, scones, small cakes and other savories. Typically made of silver, ceramic or wood.
- Serving utensils: Includes a tea strainer, tongs for sugar cubes, small knives for spreads, and spoons. Made of silver.
Some of the most prestigious English tea set brands are Wedgwood, Royal Albert, and Royal Doulton. You can find a proper tea set from many retailers that sell fine china, such as Williams Sonoma, Harrods, and Fortnum & Mason.
An English tea set provides the perfect backdrop for an afternoon enjoying tea, conversation, and sweet treats in the most proper of ways. All that’s left is to invite your friends, choose a tea, and pour the hot water. Your tea time awaits!
Components of a Traditional English Tea Set
To enjoy the traditional English tea experience, you’ll need to acquire the proper components that make up an authentic tea set. ### Teapot
The most essential part of any English tea set is the teapot. Look for a ceramic teapot, traditionally porcelain, that can hold at least 4 cups of tea. Popular classic shapes are the rounded pot with a domed lid. For the discerning tea drinker, consider a Yixing clay teapot which is said to enhance the flavor of the tea.
Teacups
Teacups for a traditional tea set are smaller than standard coffee mugs, holding 4 to 6 ounces. They are typically made of fine bone china and delicately decorated. Each cup comes with a matching saucer to place it on when not in use. It is customary to have a cup, saucer and spoon for each guest.
Additional pieces
No English tea set is complete without a milk jug, sugar bowl, and tiered plates for sandwiches and pastries. A kettle, preferably stovetop, is required for heating water. Round out your set with linen napkins, a tea tray, tongs, strainers and timers.
For a proper English tea experience, choose a reputable brand known for quality and tradition. Options include Wedgwood, Royal Albert, Royal Doulton, and Spode. You can find gorgeous English tea sets at department stores like Harrods or Fortnum and Mason in London, as well as Macy’s and Williams Sonoma in the United States.
With the right components and etiquette, enjoying afternoon tea can be a delightful social event. Savoring delicious finger sandwiches, scones and petit fours while sipping fragrant loose leaf tea from an elegant china set creates a memorable experience not to be missed. Treat yourself to a charming English tradition.
Proper English Tea Etiquette and Customs
To fully appreciate the experience of English tea, one must understand proper etiquette and customs. An English tea follows a set of time-honored traditions that date back to the 19th century.
Attire
For an English tea, semi-formal or formal attire is expected. For women, a dress, skirt and blouse, or pantsuit is appropriate. For men, slacks and a button-down shirt are recommended. Hats or gloves are optional. The key is to dress in a polished, dignified manner that shows respect for the occasion.
Punctuality
It is considered rude to arrive late to tea. Aim to arrive a few minutes early. The tea hostess should greet you promptly upon arrival and invite you to be seated once all guests have arrived.
Place Setting
A proper English place setting includes a teacup and saucer, teaspoon, linen napkin, and small fork. The napkin is placed on your lap, the teaspoon on the saucer, and the fork on the table to the left of the teaspoon. The teacup sits on the saucer, ready to be filled once tea is served.
Etiquette
Mind your manners. Sit up straight with good posture, make eye contact, smile, and engage in polite conversation with fellow guests. Do not reach across the table for food – instead, ask someone to pass the item to you. Do not slurp or make loud noises. Thank the tea hostess before departing.
An English tea follows time-honored rituals and etiquette. By understanding attire, punctuality, place settings, and etiquette, you will feel comfortable participating in this most civilized of traditions. Savor the experience of fine tea, delicious finger foods, and pleasant company. Minding one’s manners and following proper custom allows English tea to be a most enjoyable social affair.
Where to Buy an Authentic English Tea Set
To procure an authentic English tea set, one must explore reputable retailers that specialize in fine china and housewares. Two premium options are Royal Albert and Wedgwood, which offer tea sets handcrafted in England using techniques passed down through generations.
Royal Albert
Royal Albert is a prestigious brand that has been producing elegant china since 1896. Their Old Country Roses collection features a popular pink and rose pattern that epitomizes traditional English design. The Royal Albert Old Country Roses 3-Piece Tea Set includes a teapot, sugar bowl, and creamer, all decorated with the signature rose motif and lustrous gold trim. This set or a larger Royal Albert tea set would make an heirloom gift for any tea enthusiast.
Wedgwood
Dating back to 1759, Wedgwood is a iconic British china company synonymous with quality and style. Their Peter Rabbit collection includes whimsical bunny-themed tea sets inspired by Beatrix Potter’s beloved tales. For a more classic set, Wedgwood’s English Lace pattern incorporates ivory-colored fine bone china accented with intricate embossing reminiscent of delicate needle lace. A Wedgwood Peter Rabbit or English Lace tea set would delight any Anglophile or lover of classic literature.
In summary, to procure a traditional English tea set of the finest pedigree, one should consider esteemed British brands like Royal Albert or Wedgwood. Their china sets feature classic patterns and motifs, gilded with 22-karat gold and crafted from premium bone china. While a high-quality set may come at a premium price, with proper care it can become a treasured family heirloom passed down for generations. By purchasing from an authorized retailer, one can ensure the authenticity and quality of the English tea set.
Recommended Brands for High Quality English Tea Sets
For a traditional English tea set of high quality and elegance, several reputable brands are recommended.
Wedgwood
Wedgwood is a prestigious English brand that has been producing fine china since 1759. Their collections include traditional floral patterns and motifs suited for a classic English tea service. Wedgwood uses fine bone china, with pieces that are dishwasher safe but best hand washed to maintain quality. They offer full tea sets as well as the option to curate your own set by choosing specific pieces. Wedgwood is a trusted, established brand for a proper English tea set.
Royal Albert
Royal Albert, founded in 1896, is another venerable English brand that epitomizes traditional style. Their “Old Country Roses” collection is a popular, timeless pattern featuring roses, leaves and gold accents. Royal Albert uses high-quality bone china and gold embellishments for an elegant look and feel. They offer a variety of full tea set options across different patterns to suit any taste. Like Wedgwood, Royal Albert is a reputable brand that will provide an authentic English tea set experience.
Harrods
For over 160 years, Harrods of London has been a premier luxury British department store. They offer a range of traditional English tea sets and accessories, from brands like Wedgwood, Royal Albert, Royal Doulton and their own signature collections. While pricier, shopping at Harrods allows you to handpick each piece to create your ideal set. They frequently run sales and ship internationally. Harrods is an iconic British institution that provides high quality, stylish options for a complete English tea set.
Other recommended brands for a traditional English tea set include Royal Doulton, Portmeirion, Burleigh and House of Fraser. With an established British brand and the proper utensils like a teapot, cups and saucers, sugar bowl, milk jug, tiered stands and linens, you will be well on your way to hosting a quintessential English tea.
Conclusion
As you have discovered, a traditional English tea set is comprised of many components beyond just a teapot and cups. Knowing how to properly set the table and understanding the etiquette involved in an English tea service allows you to fully appreciate this cultural tradition. With a stunning tea set, quality loose leaf tea, freshly baked scones, finger sandwiches, and other treats, hosting or attending an English tea can be a delightful experience. Treat yourself to an authentic tea set and invite friends over to share in this timeless custom. An English tea set is the perfect gift for any tea lover or Anglophile in your life as well. Now that you are versed in the components, etiquette, and brands of English tea sets, you can confidently buy or use one to enjoy the charm of a classic English tea.