I recently celebrated my birthday, and this year I chose a quiet, personal kind of celebration—one that brought together two of the most important people in my life: my mother and my girlfriend. Instead of a big party or a flashy outing, I wanted something that reflected who I am and what I love—connection, conversation, and a touch of tradition.

We marked the occasion with afternoon tea at a charming English-style restaurant in Brockville, a town that always feels a bit like stepping into a storybook. It wasn’t just a nod to my British roots—it was also a shared experience rich in memory, meaning, and a touch of nostalgia for us all.

Honoring Family Traditions Through Tea

Afternoon tea holds a special place in my family’s history, especially for my mother, who grew up in the UK. She often reminisces about the small but heartfelt rituals of her childhood—like the cup of tea her father would prepare for her each morning. Though tea isn’t my daily go-to, I’ve always appreciated the way this tradition connects us to our past.

I first experienced afternoon tea in the UK back in 2009, during a visit to see my grandmother and a memorable stop at Highcliffe Castle. I still remember the peaceful moment of sipping herbal tea and enjoying scones with strawberry jam (lactose intolerance meant skipping the clotted cream!). It’s a memory I return to often—one that feels especially poignant when I share the experience with people I love.

A Shared Love of British Culture: Reconnecting Through Tea

My girlfriend is no stranger to afternoon tea or British customs. She’s enjoyed traditional tea service before, both in Canada and during her past visits to the UK, including cream teas in Devon and Ireland. She also has a deep appreciation for British television and culture, which has become a sweet point of connection between us.

While afternoon tea isn’t new to her, revisiting it in this cozy setting felt like a lovely echo of those earlier travels. It wasn’t about novelty—it was about nostalgia. This tea was a return to something familiar and cherished, made even more special by sharing it together. I loved seeing how she slipped right into the rhythm of the experience, savoring the delicate sandwiches, the buttery scones, and the calm, deliberate pace of the afternoon.

A Cozy English Escape in the Heart of Brockville

The tearoom we chose in Brockville couldn’t have been more perfect. Tucked away in this picturesque riverside town, the English-inspired restaurant offers an atmosphere that’s both warm and transportive—like you’ve been whisked away to a countryside café in Somerset or a quiet corner of London.

The British owners have recreated the experience with real care and attention to detail, from antique teacups and linens to an excellent selection of loose-leaf teas and homemade scones. It’s a place that feels welcoming and personal, where each visit is its own small escape.

My mother, naturally, loves the nostalgic feel—it reminds her of her roots. And for my girlfriend, it was a comfortable return to a tradition she already enjoys, made even more meaningful by the setting and company.

Do you have a special memory tied to afternoon tea? Perhaps it was a quiet afternoon spent with someone you love, the kind where time seemed to slow down between sips and smiles. Maybe it was a grand affair at a beautiful hotel, or a hidden gem of a tea room you stumbled upon while travelling. Whether it’s the taste of freshly baked scones, the delicate clink of china, or the warmth of conversation that stands out most, I’d love to hear your story. Feel free to share your favourite afternoon tea memory or the most memorable place you’ve had it in the comments below — let’s take a moment to reminisce together.