Each year, International Cream Tea Day invites tea lovers around the world to slow down, sip thoughtfully, and savor one of Britain’s most iconic culinary rituals: cream tea. Observed on Friday, June 27th this year, this charming celebration honors the humble yet beloved pairing of warm scones, rich clotted cream, sweet fruit jam, and, of course, a freshly brewed pot of tea. At Britalicious, we’re proud to carry on this cherished tradition—one that is as much about connection and comfort as it is about flavor.
☕ What Is Cream Tea?
A cream tea is a simple but refined British afternoon treat traditionally consisting of:
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Freshly baked scones
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Clotted cream (a thick, spreadable cream with a silky texture)
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Jam, most often strawberry or raspberry
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A pot of black tea, typically served with milk
It is not a full afternoon tea with finger sandwiches and pastries, but rather a lighter alternative—perfect for mid-afternoon enjoyment.
📜 The History Behind Cream Tea
While afternoon tea as a formal tradition was popularized in the 1840s by Anna, the Duchess of Bedford, cream tea has even deeper, more regional roots—particularly in Devon and Cornwall, two counties in southwest England.
🥄 Devon vs. Cornwall: The Great Debate
The age-old question: Do you put the cream or the jam on first?
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In Devon, it’s cream first, then jam.
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In Cornwall, it's jam first, then cream.
Though playful, this distinction is fiercely defended in both counties and forms part of the charm and pride behind the tradition. The origin of cream tea is believed to date back to the 11th century, when monks at Tavistock Abbey in Devon served bread with clotted cream and jam to passing travelers. Over time, this evolved into the scone-based version we know today.
📅 What Is International Cream Tea Day?
International Cream Tea Day was established by Rodda’s Clotted Cream (a well-known Cornish cream producer) and Tiptree (Wilkin & Sons) in 2015 to promote this distinctly British tradition and encourage people across the UK—and around the world—to enjoy cream tea together.
It’s observed on the last Thursday of June each year. In 2025, it will be celebrated on Friday, June 27th. The day has become an opportunity not only to indulge, but also to support local bakeries, tea rooms, and producers who keep the tradition alive.
💖 Why It Matters
At its heart, cream tea is about more than food. It’s about:
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Slowing down in a fast-paced world
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Connecting with friends or family over conversation
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Celebrating heritage and everyday beauty
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Appreciating craftsmanship—from hand-whipped clotted cream to freshly baked scones
It’s a tradition that reflects British hospitality, grace, and charm—values we hold dear at Britalicious.
✨ Celebrate With Britalicious
This International Cream Tea Day, we invite you to mark the occasion with our limited-edition Cream Tea Box, available only June 27–28. Featuring:
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Your choice of four freshly baked scones
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Rich clotted cream and jam
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Two premium teas of your choice
It’s the perfect way to honor this delicious tradition—whether shared with someone you love or enjoyed all to yourself.
Order now and raise a teacup to British tradition. Quantities are limited—don’t miss out.
Looking for something more substantial? You can also order this weekend’s Afternoon Tea To-Go, which includes tea sandwiches, sweets, and everything you need for a full Britalicious experience at home. For an extra indulgence, try our Queen’s Tea, which features double the tea sandwiches—perfect for sharing or treating yourself like royalty.
🏢 Local Pickup & Delivery Located in Chino, CA, Britalicious proudly serves: Chino Hills, Ontario, Eastvale, Claremont, Pomona, Upland, San Dimas, Rancho Cucamonga. Enjoy the taste of Britain without leaving the neighborhood.
Please note: We do not have a storefront. Britalicious operates out of a licensed commercial kitchen in Chino. Orders must be placed in advance for pickup or delivery.
📍 Visit Us: Britalicious | 12207 Central Avenue, Chino, CA 91710 | (626) 814-5960 | contact@britalicious.com