Most of us have heard of Afternoon Tea, High Tea or even something called Elevenses. But what are they exactly? Here's a short primer on the three English tea times.

Elevenses

Elevenses is, surprise, tea served around 11 in the morning and is a late-morning work break that involves a light snack — think muffins, scones or biscuits — and a hot tea or coffee.

Afternoon Tea

Afternoon Tea originated as a "bridge" between the light lunches and late dinners served in the early 1800s. Afternoon Tea usually occurs between 3 and 4 pm. It's an elaborate affair with finger sandwiches and an array of scones, cakes, macaroons and other bits to nibble. Napkins in your lab and mind your manners!

High Tea

High Tea, despite its name, actually began with the lower classes. For workers in the newly industrialized Britain, tea time had to wait until after work. This after-work meal was more often hot and filling and accompanied by a pot of strong tea. 

Calling it "high tea" may have been a a way to differentiate it between afternoon tea traditionally served on low, comfortable, relaxing chairs and the worker's after-work tea served at the table and seated on high back dining chairs.

Let's Sip

No matter when you have your tea, make sure it's from Sky Mountain Coffee. Browse our loose leaf teas.