Tea in BritainTea Customs
Afternoon tea is said to have originated with one person; Anna, 7th Duchess of Be dford
In the early 1800's she launched the i dea of having tea in the late afternoon to bridge the gap between luncheon and dinner, which in fashionable circles might not be served until 8 o'clock at night
This fashionable custom soon evolved into high tea among the working classes, where this late afternoon repast became the main meal of the day
Tea Gardens
The popular pleasure gardens of Ranelagh and Vauxhall in London began serving tea around 1730
An evening of dancing and watching fireworks would be capped by tea
The concept caught on, and soon Tea Gardens opened all over Britain
Usually the gardens were opened on Saturday and Sunday, and an afternoon of entertainment and