I always thought that high tea was the fancy tea with little sandwiches and sweets that was served at 4pm. Well, that’s actually “low tea” and it originated with the upper class (it was called low tea because it was served on low tables). The working class had their tea after their workday, and it would be accompanied by more filling food such as meats, potatoes, and vegetables. Thus, high tea is actually served between 5-7pm and it’s “high” because it’s served at high tables with high-backed chairs.
I wanted to experience a traditional English tea and made a reservation at Browns Brasserie & Bar, which was recommended as one of the best afternoon teas in London. When they showed me the menu for afternoon (low) tea, not knowing the protocol, I asked if I was supposed to choose one item from each category. “No,” the waiter replied. “You get everything.”
So I had a very filling (and sweet) tea experience, not far from the Tower Bridge
I chose the passion fruit and orange tea, which was excellent.
And a lovely view of the Tower Bridge
Browns Brasserie & Bar offers its classic afternoon tea for £32 and a champagne afternoon tea for £42. It’s served daily from 2-6pm. They’re located at 26 Shad Thames, Butlers Wharf in London, SE1 2YG.