How to Throw an Afternoon Tea Party

Welcome to Victoria Eggs, home of all things British, where we’ll guide you on how to throw a memorable afternoon tea party at home. From crafting delicious sandwiches, fluffy scones, delectable cakes, and delightful biscuits to setting the perfect afternoon tea table, we have curated our top tips to help you put on the best afternoon tea party (or High tea to our overseas friends).

Whether you’re looking for a traditional Afternoon tea menu or a High Tea menu with a unique twist - dining indoors or alfresco. We have a style to inspire your perfect afternoon tea settings. 

And, if you're following a vegan lifestyle, we have a wide range of vegan afternoon tea recipes to inspire you too. 

We’ve got a party plan for everyone. If you're short on time, our easiest ever afternoon tea recipes are here to save the day. And if you're on a budget, our budget-friendly afternoon tea ideas will amaze you with their simplicity and elegance.

So, let’s dive into planning your perfect afternoon tea.

Step 1 - Set the Stage for your Perfect Tea Party

To set the stage for your party, bring out your tiered cake stand or adorn your table with the finest crockery, lace-like doilies, folded napkins, and charming place cards. Don't worry about matching patterns—mixing them up adds a trendy flair.We love to mix collections to give a touch of vintage charm to your event. But if you’re a matchy-match person, then we have plenty of beautiful collections too. 

Little touches like teapots, teacups, vintage cutlery, and cake slicers help you serve your guests with grace.

Hang bunting for the final touch.

Step 2 - Plan your drinks menu

For the perfect arrival drinks, set up a table with an array of tea options. Keep sugar and milk readily available for your guests to create their preferred cuppa. (we love a sugar cube, and teeny brass sugar tongs for a vintage vibe). Offer a selection of teas such as Earl Grey, chai, peppermint, camomile, fruit, herbal, Rooibos (Victoria’s fave) and classic English breakfast. 

In warmer weather, iced tea with a touch of Pimm's can be a refreshing alternative. You can also add a touch of elegance by serving a sloe gin royale or a juice-based mimosa. And, of course a touch off fizz adds a sparkle to any tea party! 

Step 3 - Pick your savouries

When it comes to the food, there are no strict rules. However, a classic afternoon tea menu typically includes tiers of sandwiches, cakes, and scones or teacakes. Feel free to add pastries, petits-fours, or biscuits to your spread.

Prepare your sandwich fillings in advance to save time, and assemble them just before your guests arrive to ensure freshness. Choose from a delicate selection of summer sandwiches, egg-based fillings, seafood delights, or vegetarian options. Elevate your sandwich game with thinly sliced cucumber and smoked salmon. 

Step 4 - Time for the sweet treats

Scones are best enjoyed on the day they're made. If you're short on time, you can prepare them in advance and freeze them. When needed, defrost them in a low oven and serve them warm with generous helpings of cream and jam. Decanting homemade preserves into pretty bowls, allowing your guests to help themselves. 

Teacakes and buns are beloved treats in the UK, ideal for enjoying with a cup of tea. These fruit-filled delights add a touch of sweetness to your afternoon tea party. Enjoy them warm or cold, slathered with butter.

No afternoon tea is complete without a selection of biscuits. Whether it's shortbread, cookies, or gingernuts, these treats are nostalgic and comforting. 

Have you hosted your own afternoon tea party? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below. We love to hear from you!