A Brief History of Afternoon Tea & Wartime Resilience
“There’s nothing that can’t be faced with a cuppa and a slice of cake.”

Afternoon tea, a beloved British tradition, began in the 1840s thanks to Anna, the 7th Duchess of Bedford, who simply couldn’t wait until dinner. It quickly became a fashionable social occasion—light sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and dainty cakes served with freshly brewed tea.

By the 1940s, this elegant ritual had taken on new meaning. During wartime Britain, when rationing and shortages touched every home, afternoon tea became a cherished moment of normalcy and comfort. Families made do with what they had, often baking inventive treats with limited ingredients—eggless cakes, carrot cookies, and clever substitutions. But even in the toughest times, the kettle was always on, and a biscuit or a homemade bun offered a touch of sweetness amid the hardship.

At The Bell Hotel – 1940s Tearoom, we honour that resilient spirit. Our menu blends traditional favourites with a nod to wartime ingenuity, all served with vintage charm, warm hospitality, and a good dollop of nostalgia.

So pull up a chair, take the weight off your feet, and enjoy a moment of peace—just like they did back then.

“Keep calm, carry on, and have another slice.”