How to Host the Perfect English Tea Party

There’s something undeniably magical about gathering for tea—the rustle of linen napkins, the chime of teaspoons, the scent of fresh scones drifting through the air. At The Somerset Cottage, we believe beauty and hospitality go hand in hand, and there is no occasion more suited to that belief than a traditional English tea party.

Whether you’re hosting a birthday, celebrating a baby shower, or simply gathering with dear friends on a golden afternoon, here’s everything you need to create your own timeless tea party—recipes, decor, and all.

The Menu: Classic English Tea Party Recipes

1. Classic Cream Scones

Fluffy, golden, and just sweet enough.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 2/3 cup heavy cream (plus more for brushing)
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Mix dry ingredients, then cut in butter until mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
3. Whisk cream, egg, and vanilla. Stir into dry mix just until dough forms.
4. Gently pat into a round and cut into wedges or use a biscuit cutter.
5. Place on parchment-lined tray, brush tops with cream, and bake 15–17 minutes.
6. Serve warm with clotted cream and strawberry jam.

2. Cucumber Tea Sandwiches

Delicate and refreshing—an essential bite.

• Thin white bread
• Softened butter
• English cucumber, thinly sliced
• Sea salt & cracked pepper
• Optional: herbed cream cheese or mint leaves

Spread butter or cream cheese on bread, layer with cucumbers, season lightly, then trim crusts and cut into fingers or triangles.

3. Victoria Sponge Cake

Elegant, airy, and undeniably British.

Cake:

• 1 cup butter (softened)
• 1 cup sugar
• 4 eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1 1/2 cups self-rising flour

Filling:

• Raspberry jam
• Whipped cream or buttercream

Bake in two 8” tins at 350°F for 20–25 minutes. Once cool, sandwich with jam and cream. Dust with powdered sugar.

 

The Teas: Classic Pairings

• Earl Grey: Elegant and floral; pairs beautifully with lemon drizzle or scones.
• English Breakfast: Strong and malty; perfect for heartier treats like Victoria sponge.
• Darjeeling: Light, slightly fruity; pairs well with cucumber sandwiches and delicate pastries.
• Chamomile or Rose Tea: Ideal for an evening tea or garden setting.

Offer milk, lemon slices, and sugar cubes on the side for guests to tailor their cup.

 

The Decor: Vintage Cottage Charm

• Tableware: Use our Roseleigh, Pemberly, and Somerset plates for a timeless mix-and-match English cottage feel. Layer with a lace or floral tablecloth.
• Centerpieces: Small garden roses or wildflowers in teacups or bud vases scattered down the table.
• Linens: Embroidered or floral napkins tied with ribbon or a sprig of lavender.
• Teapots & Cake Stands: If you have tiered cake stands, now is the time to bring them out. Look for ceramic or vintage-style pieces for an authentic look.
• Ambience: Hang bunting or small paper lanterns if hosting outdoors. Soft instrumental music (like classical or a Jane Austen soundtrack) sets the perfect mood.

 

Table Setting Tips

1. Plates: Start with a salad/dessert plate (like our Pemberly) at each setting.
2. Napkins: Place neatly on top of the plate or tucked under forks.
3. Cutlery: Teaspoons above the plate or to the right of your cup and saucer.
4. Teacups: Place slightly to the right and above the plate.
5. Extras: Consider place cards for a personal touch.

 

Final Flourishes

• Invite guests to wear florals, hats, or linen dresses to lean into the theme.
• Send them home with a tea sachet or a tiny jar of jam as a sweet memento.
• Add a gentle reading of poetry or a Jane Austen excerpt to close the gathering.

May your tea be strong, your scones be warm, and your table always full of beauty and dear friends.

With love,

The Somerset Cottage