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.

Even in our modern society, there is certain etiquette to be followed when a British host or hostess invites you to teatime. For a proper teatime gathering, the hosts will forward written invitations to all of the guests. These invitations are designed to provide all of the detailed information that the guests will need, including what to expect. By sending invitations, the guests can be fully prepared for the gathering and will not feel out of place.

Proper English teatime etiquette requires certain essential items. First and foremost, there must be a teapot. China teapots are chosen for intimate gatherings, while silver teapots are the vessels of choice for more formal affairs. The table will be properly set with cups and saucers, teaspoons and a sugar bowl. Utensils including sugar tongs, tea strainer and a lemon dish and fork are set out. If cake is being served, forks will be provided. Knives are placed on the table for enjoying jam or cream with scones. The proper teatime table will have a separate spoon for each jar of jam and cream. Refreshments are placed on the table where guests are seated, and nowhere else.

The host or hostess is expected to spend time entertaining his or her teatime guests, rather than fussing in the kitchen. Therefore, everything must be ready to serve before the guests arrive.

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.