British Afternoon Tea Etiquette Course in London

Savour Tradition and Master the Timeless art of enjoying our quintessentially British pastime

The British Afternoon Tea Etiquette Course, held within the illustrious Palm Court of The Ritz Hotel, London, offers an immersive journey into one of Britain’s most cherished traditions. More than a lesson in manners, it is an elegant exploration of the rich heritage and refined rituals surrounding the taking of afternoon tea.

Ideal for ladies, close companions, or families wishing to share a memorable and cultured experience, our British Afternoon Tea Etiquette Course in London combines historical context and practical instruction in a timeless, sophisticated setting.

Set amidst gleaming silver tea services and fine chinaware, with the soft strains of the resident pianist in the background, participants are transported to a world where civility, grace, and tradition reign. Once the domain of high society, the Palm Court remains the quintessential setting to study the social customs and etiquette of this cherished ritual.

Guests will gain insight into the origins of afternoon tea, from the Portuguese influence of Catherine of Braganza to the innovations of the Duchess of Bedford, while enjoying a traditional menu that includes delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with Devonshire clotted cream and preserves, and a selection of fine loose-leaf teas.

The experience is further elevated by The Ritz’s signature tableside cake service—an indulgent and unforgettable touch.

Where is the course held?

Our British Afternoon Tea Etiquette Course is hosted at The Ritz Hotel, 150 Piccadilly, London, W1J 9BR.

Elegantly situated in the heart of Mayfair, the hotel enjoys easy transport connections. It is just a two-minute stroll from Green Park underground station, served by the Jubilee, Piccadilly, and Victoria lines, ensuring ease of access for our guests.

The experience commences at 3:30 PM and concludes at approximately 5:00 PM, offering a delightful afternoon dedicated to cultivating quiet confidence, polished conversation, and graceful self-assurance amidst the elegance of traditional British teatime.

What can you expect to achieve?

The two-hour British Afternoon Tea Etiquette Course offers a comprehensive exploration of the cultural heritage and refined customs surrounding this cherished tradition. Participants will acquire a clear understanding of the correct etiquette for each element of the afternoon tea experience, from the order of service to the graceful handling of tableware.

In the elegant setting of The Ritz, there is also the opportunity to engage in thoughtful conversation with your host on a variety of matters related to British etiquette. With her extensive experience in cross-cultural dynamics, Emma provides gentle, expert guidance on navigating even the most delicate cultural nuances with tact and diplomacy.

Course Syllabus

The History of Afternoon Tea
  • King Charles II's marriage to Catherine de Braganza

  • The Seventh Duchess of Bedford

  • The difference between High Tea and Afternoon Tea

  • The Victorian Tea Rooms

  • How Dress Codes have changed throughout the years

The History of Tea
  • Black, white, and green tea

  • How to brew steep and serve

  • The importance of loose-leaf tea

  • Milk in first or last?

  • Accompaniments for tea

  • How to hold your cup & saucer

  • How to stir your tea correctly

  • Strainers, teapots, teacups, teaspoons

Sandwiches, Scones & Pastries
  • Traditional fillings and shapes

  • Correct layering of your scone

  • Use of the patisserie fork

  • How to eat your finger sandwiches and other savouries

Duties of the Host and Guest
  • Invitations for tea

  • What time should you arrive?

  • Knowing when to start

  • Napkin etiquette

  • Polite tea talk

British Afternoon Tea Etiquette Course: Private 1:1 Tuition

Arranged for a mutually agreeable time

Investment: £625 (inclusive of all taxes)

WHO WE WORK WITH

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN LIVING IN THE UK

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN LIVING OUTSIDE THE UK

BRITISH WOMEN LIVING IN THE UK

British Afternoon Tea Etiquette Course
British Afternoon Tea Etiquette Class
British Afternoon Tea Etiquette Lesson

""Emma welcomed us to London and helped to orient our family through the British Afternoon Tea Etiquette Course.

Emma is a delightful host. She helped us all to feel at ease and engaged our two teenage daughters as well as my husband and me.

We had a wonderful and tasty time while learning very interesting facts and traditions. Highly recommended. Thank you, Emma!"

Aimee, August 2019

We look forward to welcoming you to our British Afternoon Tea Etiquette Course in London!

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