Afternoon tea taken with a light meal traditionally takes place between 4 pm and 6 pm. Started in England in 1840 by Anna Maria Russell, Duchess of Bradford to get over her boredom and to socialize with her elite female friends is still practiced in many parts of the world. At upper class family homes tea is still served by white gloved. Once was a practice of social elite today the practice is coming back to many tea houses and restaurants all over the world.
Tea served is brewed with loose tea and served in a tea pot. Milk and sugar are served in separate vessels. It provides a calorie boost until the supper is served later. Over the years, many accompanying food items were added to the serving. Scones; small sandwiches made with eggs, cucumbers, and ham; cream puffs; and many others decadents are served along with the afternoon tea. Today the afternoon tea has come a long way from the first cup served in Duchess of Bedford palace.
High tea also occurs between 5 pm and 7 pm. But it refers to a practice mostly by working class people and the tea is accompanied with a hot meal.