The phrase "tea time" is typically used to refer to a social gathering. As the name suggests, friends will gather at teatime to relax over a steaming cuppa. The people of England are stereotypically viewed as prominent tea drinkers, and many Britons are expert tea growers and blenders.

If you ever have the good fortune to attend a proper English teatime, accept the invitation and, for heaven's sake, mind your manners. Not everyone has the good fortune to participate in teatime, and etiquette is an important part of the tradition.

Over the years, the rites and traditions of teatime have relaxed. Certainly, British teatime etiquette is not the regimented ceremony that it once was. For example, gentlemen would be expected to pour their hot tea into the saucer, not sipping until the tea had cooled. This archaic tradition has all but disappeared, and anyone drinking tea in this manner would cause raised eyebrows in today's modern tearooms. In fact, it would likely be considered rude and boorish behavior. Historically, teatime etiquette would require the lady of the house to keep her tea locked safely away, producing it only at teatime. Of course, the modern English woman keeps her tea in a countertop canister, just like everyone else.

Despite the disappearance of certain traditions, some proper English teatime etiquette remains. Today's hosts and hostesses do expect a certain level of decorum among their teatime guests. It is still a common practice for the teatime host or hostess to send written invitations to his or her guests. With the teatime details clearly stated, guests know what to expect and no one will feel awkward.

There are certain items required for proper English teatime etiquette. A teapot is first and foremost. Silver teapots are used for all formal affairs, while china teapots are chosen for more casual or intimate gatherings. Tables are properly set with teaspoons, cups, saucers and a sugar bowl. Sugar tongs, a tea strainer, a lemon dish and a fork are among the required utensils. Forks are provided when cakes are being served, and knives are placed on the table to use with jam or cream for the scones. Every proper teatime table has a separate spoon for each jar of jam and cream. Refreshments are placed only on the table where the teatime guests are seated.

When serving tea, it's important that the hostess spend teatime with her guests, rather than fussing in the kitchen. Teatime etiquette requires the host or hostess to entertain and visit with the guests.

Anyone can enjoy proper British teatime. Invite some friends over, set the table with your prettiest teapot and utensils, and splurge on English scones and cream. Teatime is a wonderful way to enjoy the company of friends while sipping a favorite blend, any time at all.