This is something we get asked quite often here at Brookfield House, and I always smile when people ask because it’s actually quite interesting and has a lovely bit of history behind it.

A lot of people use the terms high tea and afternoon tea as though they mean the same thing, and these days that’s completely understandable.

But originally they were actually very different.

Afternoon Tea

Afternoon tea started in England in the early 1800s as a way to fill the time between lunch and dinner.

It was more of a gentle afternoon ritual than a big meal.
A pot of tea, small sandwiches, warm scones with cream and jam, and a few sweet treats on the side.

It was elegant, relaxed and never rushed.

High Tea

High tea, despite the name sounding fancier, was actually the more substantial meal.

It was eaten later in the day by working families and was served at a higher dining table, which is where the name came from.

It included more filling foods designed to nourish after a long day.

What we have at Brookfield House

Over the years, the meaning of high tea has changed, and now most people use it to describe the beautiful tiered tea experience we offer today.

At Brookfield House, what we have created is really more about the feeling than the name.

A place where things slow down a little.
Where tea becomes part of the experience.
And where all the little details matter.

Our rose quartz tables are set with freshly prepared savouries, warm scones, handcrafted sweets, and loose leaf teas we have blended with care.

All enjoyed in the quiet charm of our house and colourful gardens.

 More Than Just Tea

For us, it has never only been about the food, although the food is fabulous.

It’s about sitting together, talking, celebrating, catching up with people you love, and taking a little pause from busy life for a while.

Whether people call it high tea or afternoon tea really doesn’t matter to us.

What matters most is how people feel while they are here.

You Are Always Welcome

If you’ve been curious to experience high tea, or simply feel like slowing down for a little while, we would absolutely love to welcome you to Brookfield House.

There is something very special about sharing tea this way.

love always
Brookfield House