As Afternoon Tea Week got underway this month, we’ve decided to look back at times when people embraced the custom in Cumbria over the years.

Afternoon tea is a cherished British tradition that has become synonymous with elegance, relaxation, and socialisation.

The story of its origin tells that in the early 19th century, afternoon tea was introduced by Anna, the Duchess of Bedford, who found herself hungry between lunch and the late evening meal.

She began inviting friends to join her for an afternoon snack of tea, sandwiches, and cakes, thus establishing a custom that quickly spread across the country.

Today, afternoon tea is more than just a meal; it is a cultural experience that embodies British hospitality and refinement.

Typically served between 3:30 and 5:00 pm, the traditional afternoon tea includes a selection of finely cut sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and an array of pastries, all accompanied by a pot of freshly brewed tea, although now more often a glass of champagne is common.

The ritual of afternoon tea offers a moment of pause in the day, a time to unwind, connect with others, and indulge in the simple pleasures of good food and company.

In the UK, afternoon tea holds significant social importance.

It is often associated with celebrations, such as birthdays, anniversaries, and weddings, where it provides a setting for people to come together in a relaxed and convivial atmosphere.

Afternoon tea also plays a role in tourism, with many visitors seeking out this quintessentially British experience in renowned tea rooms and hotels across the country, as there are several luxury hotels, spas, and restaurants in Cumbria doing this regularly.