- The nation’s top items include sandwiches (71%), scones (69%) and tea (65%)
- Despite this, many would like to see the British staple refreshed, with additions like quiche (32%), crisps (24%) and cocktails (19%)
- Surprisingly, afternoon tea is most popular with 25–34-year-olds (21%) while 28% of the nation say recent royal events have inspired their enjoyment of an afternoon tea spread
New research* from Tesco ahead of National Afternoon Tea Week (7th – 13th August) reveals that afternoon tea is still much loved by the nation. Despite the tradition being over 200 years old**, three quarters (74%) say that they’ll have an afternoon tea as many times, or more, than last year.
As expected, sandwiches (71%), scones (69%) and tea (65%) came out on top as the nation’s favourite items, however, the research also revealed that people are looking for ways to refresh the light meal.
Those in Belfast, however, would be keen to add a cocktail or two to their afternoon tea, with almost half the city (47%) believing it would improve the experience, compared to just a fifth of the nation (19%) – perhaps inspired by growing cocktail menus in bars and restaurants over recent years.
Besides cocktails, 32% of the nation would add quiche to afternoon tea, which may be due to the popularity of the Coronation quiche back in May. This is closely followed by crisps (24%), while 17% would add salad, vegetables, or hummus.
Some fancy adding in tapas-style dishes with 20% believing cold meats would improve the meal and 8% wanting arancini added, whilst 10% would have sushi as part of their idea afternoon tea spread.
Perhaps surprisingly, the afternoon tea occasion is most popular amongst younger generations, with 21% of 25–34-year-olds enjoying it at least once a month, closely followed by 18% of 18-24-year-olds.
Over a third of the nation (34%) opt for afternoon tea when the weather is nice, however, the recent royal celebrations including the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee and the King’s Coronation have also inspired the nation (28%) to enjoy the quintessentially British tradition more often.
What’s more, those living in closest in proximity to Buckingham Palace indulge the most, with 10% of Londoners enjoying the experience at least once a week. It could be argued that London is the afternoon tea capital of the nation with grand destinations like The Ritz and Fortnum and Mason all serving up the British staple in style.
It’s safe to say a traditional cup of tea is still much loved by the nation with 65% opting for this as part of their menu of choice. Classic English breakfast tea comes out as the most popular type, with 40% enjoying the brew, followed by Earl Grey (14%), while 4% opt for green tea.
Tesco Executive Chef, Jamie Robinson comments:
“Afternoon tea is a hallmark of British cuisine, like the English brekkie, shepherd’s pie or fish and chips, so it’s great to see that younger generations are continuing the tradition.
“The basics of afternoon tea offer lots of room for exploration, whether it’s quiche, cocktails or crisps, people can personalise the experience by popping on a bit of what they fancy.
“Whether you’re going customary or contemporary, Tesco has a range of delicious products perfect for celebrating National Afternoon Tea Week with family and friends at home or in the garden.”.
*Research conducted by Opinium, July 2023. Participants included 2,000 UK adults.
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