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National Cream Tea Day

Learn how to make scones and clotted cream, and enjoy your very own British tea time. Gather some friends for afternoon tea on National Cream Tea day.

Countries & Cultures Food & Drink Life & Living Tea62

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Drive afternoon tea experiences and premium ingredient sales by positioning National Cream Tea Day as an accessible British tradition for home entertaining and café visits.

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Scone-baking tutorials and clotted cream recipes to inspire at-home celebrations
Devonian vs. Cornish cream tea method comparison—settle the debate with your audience
Curated afternoon tea ingredient bundles and specialty tea pairings for last-minute hosts
Behind-the-scenes café prep and plating inspiration for hospitality venues

History

Cream tea is a form of afternoon light tea that is served with sides of scones, clotted cream, and jam. The tea is believed to have originated in the 11th century when the tradition of eating bread with cream and jam at Tavistock Abbey in Devon arose.

There are two methods to eat scones and drink cream tea. One of the more notable Devonian method, where a person splits the scone in two, covers each half with clotted cream, and then adds strawberry jam on top.

The Cornish method, which is more notable in London, is when a person takes a warm ‘bread split’ or a ‘scone’ and splits in two, then spreads with strawberry jam, and finally tops the scones with a spoonful of clotted cream. In this case, it’s a matter of order generalized to the area you are located in.

Hence, for all tea lovers out there, National Cream Tea Day was founded by the Cream Tea Society, an organization that partners with Tiptree and Rodda’s to host tea events throughout the United Kingdom.

Each year, the Cream Tea Society would host tea parties and events, teaching people proper English etiquette and how to properly eat scones and drink tea. Each of these events all go towards charity fundraisers to organizations such as children’s cancer research.

How to celebrate

Make and Bake

If you want to start celebrating this British holiday, then start by learning how to make British scones and clotted cream! It’s best if you can find a person who knows how to teach you, but the internet is also full of recipes and tips.

Host an Afternoon Tea

Another way to celebrate this British-themed date is to have an afternoon tea experience with your friends and loved ones. It is up to you whether you want to host the occasion or you want to go to an eatery that is going to do all of the hard work for you. If you decide that you are going to prepare the afternoon tea yourself, make sure you have a good selection of teas to drink. You are also going to need finger sandwiches, scones, jams, cakes, and biscuits. You can be as traditional or as experimental as you want with the selection that you serve. Take a look online if you need a bit of inspiration. You will see plenty of exciting and fun recipes, as well as some inspirations on how to display the afternoon tea in an attractive way as well.

FAQ

Why is there a debate over whether cream or jam goes on the scone first?

The cream-first or jam-first debate stems from regional pride. In Devon, cream first reflects their dairy heritage. Cornwall favors jam first, showcasing their fruit farming. Each claims their way enhances the flavors better.

What’s the historical link between cream tea and monasteries?

Monasteries in Devon served early versions of cream teas in the 11th century. Monks offered clotted cream with bread to travelers. This simple hospitality evolved into the cream tea we know today.

Did cream tea traditions influence British tourism?

Victorian tourists flocked to Devon and Cornwall in the 19th century. They loved the local cream teas, spreading the tradition nationwide. Many tearooms opened, catering to travelers and promoting the regional specialty.

What unusual ingredients have been used in cream teas?

Some modern twists include lavender-infused clotted cream or exotic jams like mango or passionfruit. Savory versions even use sun-dried tomato scones with goat cheese. These innovations keep the tradition fresh.

Do cream tea customs appear in popular culture?

In British TV and literature, cream tea often symbolizes a cozy, rural life. It appears in shows like Downton Abbey or books by Agatha Christie, grounding the tradition in quintessential English charm.

What myths surround clotted cream’s origins?

A myth claims Phoenician traders introduced clotted cream to England. Historians debunk this, pointing to medieval dairy practices as its true origin. The myth persists, adding a touch of mystery.

How do other countries celebrate similar traditions?

Australia enjoys “Devonshire Tea,” mimicking cream tea with scones, jam, and whipped cream. Japan celebrates with matcha-infused scones. These adaptations highlight cream tea’s global appeal.

Are there cream tea festivals outside England?

Yes! New Zealand hosts an annual cream tea contest to crown the best scones. In Canada, expat communities organize tea events to share the tradition. These festivals keep the spirit alive worldwide.

What’s the most elaborate cream tea setup ever made?

A luxury version in London featured gold-dusted scones, champagne, and truffle-infused clotted cream. It cost over $500 per person. While extravagant, it’s a nod to cream tea’s versatility.

How did rationing during WWII affect cream tea traditions?

Rationing made butter, cream, and sugar scarce. Cooks used margarine and powdered milk as substitutes. Despite challenges, cream tea survived as a cherished treat.