As part of my London Getaway post, it is a traditional affair to have “Afternoon Tea” or “High Tea” in London. This was one of things I looked forward to doing in London. The picture in this post was taken at Hotel Café inside the Oscar Wilde Lounge.  In my research on the popular tradition, I learned it is the most quintessential of English customs in which the concept of afternoon tea began many moons ago with British monarch, Queen Victoria.  The purpose was to help bridge the gap between lunch and dinner. So, the high upper-class society would seek out the finest afternoon tea services in town, typically served at the high-end hotels.  High society women would change into long gowns, gloves, and hats in preparation of their afternoon tea which was usually served around four or five o’clock in the afternoon. I absolutely enjoyed the experience at Hotel Café. The scones and tea sandwiches were a delight! Expensive, but very nice with a pianist and Victorian ambiance!

Love and Light, Valerie