Afternoon tea has been around for many centuries and really hasn’t changed that much from its traditional form. In the 1840’s, the Duchess of Bedford would often get peckish between her lunch and dinner, therefore requesting tea, bread, butter and cake mid-afternoon. As dinner was often served late, this “afternoon tea” soon became a tradition amongst those closest to her and thus became the afternoon tea we know and love today.

Whether you’re hosting an intimate tea for two, or throwing a lavish party with friends, afternoon tea is certainly an indulgent treat perfect for any occasion.

Delicate fine China adorned with sandwiches, scones and cakes is sure to impress your party guests. Plus, you needn’t worry about having matching tea ware. In fact, mixing and matching colourful crockery gives a luxurious look and is ideal for snapping those Instagram-worthy photos. For a larger group, a picnic-style tea party puts a fun twist on this traditional afternoon fare.

When such a luxurious party requires only the finest produce and ingredients, you’ll be sure to find only the best in our Farm Shop. And to give you a head-start, we’ve rounded up our top picks for hosting this afternoon delight.

Scones, jam and cream

Afternoon tea just wouldn’t be the same without delicious, freshly baked scones and those that you’ll find at our Bakery counter are like no other. Traditionally made and packed with sultanas, Becketts’ Bakery fruit scones are a tea-time staple.

The great British debate will never be over as the nation splits over whether jam or cream should go first. One thing we know for sure is that whichever way round you top them (no judging here!), scones can’t be eaten without a generous helping of jam and cream, right?

This indulgent strawberry jam from Mrs Darlington’s follows their traditional recipe and uses only the plumpest and juiciest of strawberries. Also in their collection, their summer fruits jam champions the best of British fruits including strawberries, redcurrants, raspberries and apples which is perfectly sweet for enjoying in the summer sunshine.

Sandwich perfection

A tea sandwich, often abbreviated to a finger sandwich, is a must-have when serving up afternoon tea. Traditionally, cream cheese with smoked salmon or cucumber, egg mayonnaise or ham and mustard are the most popular choices and cutting the crusts off is a must!  You’ll find endless options for sandwich fillings in our Farm Shop and of course, fresh bread which is baked on site six days a week! Our favourite filling combinations are:

• Snowdonia Black Bomber Cheddar with Tracklements’ Country Garden Chutney
• Becketts’ Deli ham with Cottage Delight Traditional Farmhouse Pickle
• Becketts’ Deli roast beef with Tracklements’ Tewkesbury Hot Mustard

Tasty Cakes and Traybakes

When browsing for something sweet to serve, our Bakery counter will not disappoint. With a range of farmhouse cakes and traybakes on offer, as well as a selection of fresh cream cakes and individual cake slices, you’re sure to find something for everyone to enjoy.

And for those wanting to bake at home, this moreish cherry crumble cake recipe is easy to follow and champions fresh British cherries. Or, why not try these beautifully sweet raspberry and white chocolate flapjacks, which could be made and stored a couple of days in advance.

Something savoury?

Although not traditionally served, savoury pastries are fast becoming a fixed feature on an afternoon tea stand. Sausage roll portions, pork pie and Scotch eggs make a great alternative for those without a sweet tooth. Homemade quiche from our Deli counter is not to be missed either. The team generously fill pastry cases in a range of flavours and bake them to perfection. Fillings include Cheese and Onion, Broccoli and Stilton, Ham and Mushroom and Red Onion and Goats Cheese to name just a few!

Bottoms up!

When it comes to filling up the tea pots, these Cartwright and Butler Afternoon Tea blend teabags are a well-bodied tea that pairs wonderfully with biscuits and cakes. For a stronger brew, their English Breakfast blend makes a richer tea and compliments both sweet and savoury foods.

If you’re looking to add some sparkle, or celebrating a special occasion, an English sparkling wine will go down a treat. Buzzards’ Valley Vineyard is just a half hours’ drive away from our Farm Shop. Their family-run business has been located at the Canwell Estate in Tamworth since the 1960’s. Their story starts much like ours, with their family moving to the area with their arable and dairy farm in 1962. After some diversification, the family have been perfecting their wine since 2001. Their White and Blush sparkling wines are perfectly refreshing and ideal for enjoying on a special occasion.

 

If you’re planning an afternoon tea party, do pop in-store and browse our Farm Shop for plenty of food inspiration. Don’t forget to share a photo of your creations with us on Facebook and Instagram.

Farm Shop open 7 days a week.