Tea Gardens

Having experienced Dutch tavern garden teas, the English developed the idea of tea gardens. Here, ladies and gentlemen took their tea out of doors, surrounded by entertainment such as orchestras, hidden arbors and flowered walks.

Tipping, as a response to proper service developed in the tea gardens of England. Small, locked wooden boxes were placed on the tables throughout the garden. Inscribed on each were the letters "T.I.P.S." which stood for the phrase "To Insure Prompt Service". If a guest wished the waiter to hurry, to insure the tea arrived hot from the often distant kitchen, he dropped a coin into the box upon being seated. Hence, the custom of tipping servers was created.

Afternoon tea has been a tradition at The Butchart Gardens since it opened in 1904. Jenny Butchart welcomed friends, acquaintances and even complete strangers to her marvellous gardens, where tea was served to all who arrived. In 1915 alone, it is reported that tea was served to 18,000 people. Mrs. Butchart, occasionally unrecognized, was not above serving tea herself. To one gentleman who attempted to leave her a tip, she replied, "Oh no, thank you, sir! Old Mrs. Butchart would never let me accept anything!" Today, afternoon tea starts with fresh fruit and yogurt, individual quiches, sandwiches such as curried chicken mousse, a chocolate flower pot and ginger scone, among other treats. High tea adds a Cornish pasty, cheese scone and a toasted crumpet.

Experience an afternoon tea as served a hundred years ago by Mrs. Caroline O'Reilly at Point Ellice House, the O'Reilly family heritage home. Here, tea is served outside on white wicker furnishings by waitresses in full period costume.

Taking afternoon tea is natural in the beautiful setting of the Gatsby Mansion, built in the 1870's. The mansion is reminiscent of the elegance of a bygone era and is beautifully poised overlooking the Inner Harbour. Its crystal chandeliers, stained glass windows and hand-frescoed ceilings take you to the 1920's, when life was grand, sophisticated and debonair. Tea is served with fresh fruit, scones with Devonshire cream and sandwiches made with delectable fillings, such as trout, and rich, miniature desserts such as white chocolate mousse.

Afternoon, or high tea, is served at more than a dozen places throughout Victoria, each with its own distinctive atmosphere and charm. One thing which does remain constant is the emphasis on good tea, good company and relaxing conversation. Afternoon tea is served at approximately four o'clock and consists of whatever the hostess chooses (sandwiches, scones, cookies, a special dessert such as a fruit tart or a rich cake). It can be formally served in the dining room or at the living room tea table. Informal teas can be enjoyed in the kitchen, garden, as a picnic or at any scenic location.