A Beginner’s Guide to British Afternoon Tea

At One Stop British Shop, we help Australians enjoy authentic British flavours without needing a plane ticket.

Whether you crave classic chocolates, biscuits, pantry staples or sauces, many of the essentials for a proper afternoon tea are within reach.

This guide explains what afternoon tea is, what to serve, and how to create your own British-inspired version at home.

What Is British Afternoon Tea?

Afternoon tea began in Britain in the early 1800s as a light meal served between lunch and dinner. It is traditionally enjoyed between 3 pm and 5 pm and includes tea served alongside small savoury and sweet items.

Unlike a full meal, afternoon tea focuses on portion size and balance. The food is designed to be eaten slowly while chatting, rather than rushed or filling.

How does it compare to high tea?

These terms are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same.

Afternoon tea is a refined, mid-afternoon occasion with finger sandwiches, scones and sweets.

High tea was historically a working family meal served later in the day and included more substantial dishes.

If you are recreating a classic British experience at home, afternoon tea is the style you are aiming for.

The Traditional Afternoon Tea Plan

Afternoon tea is usually presented on a three-tier stand, served in a specific order.

Savoury items first

This is the lightest course and usually includes finger sandwiches that are cut small:

• Cucumber
• Egg mayonnaise
• Smoked salmon
• Coronation chicken

Scones in the middle

Scones are a centrepiece of British afternoon tea. They are served warm with:

• Strawberry or raspberry jam
• Clotted cream or a thick cream alternative

Sweet treats last

This is where you can be flexible and have some fun. Traditional options include:

• Small sponge cakes
• Shortbread
• Pastries
• Biscuits
• Chocolate treats

Tea Selection

A good afternoon tea always includes a pot of tea. Popular choices include:

• English Breakfast
• Earl Grey
• Herbal or caffeine-free blends for variety

Tea is usually served with milk, sugar and lemon so guests can prepare it to their liking.

Using British Treats from One Stop British Shop

One of the easiest ways to make your afternoon tea feel authentically British is by including well-known UK treats.

At One Stop British Shop, many customers use our products as part of their afternoon tea spread, including:

British biscuits

Custard creams, shortcake biscuits and other classic varieties are ideal for afternoon tea. Try some Jammies Dodgers, Fox Party Rings Biscuits, Maryland Choc Chip Cookies, or Jaffa Cakes! They are easy to serve and work well alongside tea.

British chocolates

Add variety to the sweet tier. It’ll be the first items guests recognise. Pair your favourite tea with choices from the Cadbury Selection Box, Terry’s Milk Chocolate Caramel Ball, Terry’s Milk Chocolate Crispy Minis, Terry's Chocolate Orange Ball, or some delectable pieces from the Galaxy Large Block 360g!

Pick and mix sweets

For a more relaxed or family-friendly afternoon tea, British lollies can be served as small finishing treats or takeaway favours. Try some Bubblegum Bon Bons, Bubblegum Mermaids, or Bubs Cool Cola Skulls.

Pantry and groceries

Jams, sauces and other British grocery staples from One Stop British Shop can be used to recreate flavours that are hard to find locally in Australia.

Creative options for your afternoon tea could be Hartley’s Blackcurrant Jam, Hartley’s Strawberry Jam for scones, or Galaxy Chocolate Spread 200g.

Hosting Afternoon Tea at Home

You do not need fine china or a formal setting to enjoy afternoon tea. A few thoughtful touches make all the difference:

• Use a cake stand or tiered platter if you have one
• Keep portions small and varied
• Focus on relaxed conversation rather than strict rules

Afternoon tea works just as well for birthdays, catch-ups, baby showers or quiet weekends at home.

Learn more about yummy treats, sweet and savoury: The Ultimate Guide To British Christmas Treats.

Australians Love British Afternoon Tea

For some, afternoon tea is nostalgic and reminds them of home. For others, it is a chance to try something different and enjoy British culture through food.

With express delivery across Australia, One Stop British Shop makes it easy to source authentic British chocolates, biscuits and groceries without compromise. Whether you are recreating a tradition you grew up with or discovering it for the first time, afternoon tea is a simple way to bring British flavours into your home.

As a family-owned business based in Western Australia, we are built on a genuine passion for British food and tradition. If you are putting together a proper British afternoon tea at home, this is a reliable place to source authentic (and mouth-watering) treats you can’t say no to.

Why shop with us?

• Family-owned Australian business with a strong connection to British food culture
• Over 150 British chocolates, groceries and drinks sourced directly from the U.K.
• Authentic flavours and brands you would expect to find in Britain
• Nostalgic favourites perfect for afternoon tea, including lemon sherbets, Wine Gums and Black Jacks
• Bulk lolly options ideal for sharing, such as Fizzy Cola Bottles and Strawberry Bon Bons
• Fast, reliable delivery across Australia, including Perth, Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane
• Regular specials on seasonal favourites that pair perfectly with afternoon tea

Contact us if you’re after something specific for summer lunches, create an account, and add to cart! You can also view our specials.

Delivery timeframes:

• Western Australia orders typically arrive within 1 to 3 business days
• Orders to other Australian states generally take 4 to 7 business days

Important summer shipping information for chocolate

From November to April, Express Post is strongly recommended for all orders containing chocolate. Express Post reduces transit time and helps minimise the risk of melting; customers are responsible for selecting Express Post at checkout.

One Stop British Shop cannot accept liability for chocolate items sent via standard shipping during warmer months. Read our refund policy and terms of service in more detail.