Afternoon Tea: A little history
Afternoon tea originates from the 1840s when Queen Victoria’s lady of the bedchamber Anna, the 7th Duchess of Bedford became bored of waiting for her supper, and so at around 4pm she asked for a tray of tea and cake with bread and butter. By the 1880s this had progressed into something more formal with ladies dressing for the occasion.
Following the Second World War, afternoon tea became less popular and busy lives meant no time to ‘pause for tea’. These days, it seems to have had a re-incarnation and although lives are still busy, afternoon tea is ever popular for special occasions and catching up with friends.
Baby showers, in particular, are choosing afternoon tea for the celebration, as well as birthday parties, hen parties and other occasions. We set your table with vintage china and top up your tea as often as you’d like.
So what makes a great tea? A selection of homemade cakes and scones served with jam and clotted cream along with sandwiches and of course a pot of tea. We home bake all of our cakes and scones in house and our selection of cakes changes all the time but can include Victoria sponge, brownie, carrot cake, coffee and walnut, frangipane, or coconut macaroon among others.
We recommend having your tea as an alternative lunch, otherwise, you will find yourself too full too enjoy it. Somewhere between 12noon and 2.30pm would be the perfect time.
We are always happy to answer any questions you have before booking and where possible will cater for all dietary requirements. View details here
The Courtyard Bistro is open Wednesday – Saturday 12noon-10pm (kitchen closes 8.30pm). Afternoon Tea is served Thursday – Saturday 12-3pm (booking required) and Sundays for private parties of 20 or more.
Located in Wombourne, free parking is available on the village car parks, road parking restricted to 2 hours. Find us down Walker’s Way, off the High Street, near Bartlams.