CONTACT USSteeped in British history, the Afternoon Tea has become a common place at restaurants, hotels and tea rooms across the UK. Originating as a mini meal to keep people going between lunch and dinner it now takes many forms with new twists on the classic sandwiches and cakes offering to include modern additions such as burgers, alcohol and sweet local delicacies.
But what makes up the perfect Afternoon Tea? Surveying 1364 aficionados we sought to find out just what the nation wants.
What Makes A Top Tier Afternoon Tea?
Kicking off our Afternoon Tea we have a serving of savoury delights, but what ranks best on our list? Egg-based sandwiches are top choice, with egg mayonnaise and egg and cress both chosen as must-have fillings by 37% of respondents, followed by roast beef and smoked salmon.
Now for those with a sweeter tooth lemon drizzle takes the top spot with over 53% of the vote, followed closely by strawberry tart, victoria sponge and lemon tart.
Spilling the Tea
Afternoon Tea would be nothing without a delicious beverage, but what ranks highest in our survey? Despite the miriade of teas now available, Breakfast Tea still takes the top spot with 39% of the vote, followed by Prosecco and Earl Grey. Despite the growing popularity of Prosecco with Afternoon Tea, we are still a nation of traditionalists with 11 of the top 15 drinks being non-alcoholic.
The Great Scone Debate
Scones have traditionally always been an Afternoon Tea staple, making our top 15 sweets three times combined with jam, butter and strawberries! But, the biggest question about scones isn’t what you eat them with, it is how you pronounce the word. Is it scone as in bone, or scone as in gone?
Taking the majority of the vote, much of the UK is in agreement that scone should rhyme with gone, but what was the split across the country? Is there a north/south divide?
Here at The Midland we take pride in hosting the only setting dedicated and designed for Afternoon Tea in Manchester, ours is truly one of a kind. Feeling inspired? Looking for Manchester Hotel? Look no futher and book your stay today at The Midland Manchester.