It seems like dragons are everywhere these days. In fictional novels like Fourth Wing, and on TV with Game of Thrones. Even in children’s books like How to Train Your Dragon and Voyage of the Dawn Treader. But dragon lore has been around for a long time, and one of the most famous dragonslayers is a man known as St. George.
Today, April 23rd, is St. George’s Day, a celebration of England’s patron saint, the slayer of dragons, and a powerful symbol of courage and chivalry. While the day might not boast the parades of St. Patrick’s or the fireworks of Bonfire Night, it’s the kind of holiday that calls for a traditional English afternoon tea. So this year, instead of serving a roast beef or a steak and ale pie, I’m using the good china and serving a St. George’s Day Afternoon Tea. It’s all about celebrating the quintessentially English spirit—polished, a little romantic, and best served with jam and clotted cream. Below is the menu I’m working on… if only I had all the time in the world.
St. George’s English Afternoon Tea Party
☕ The Tea
A strong pot of Yorkshire Gold or Earl Grey, poured into proper cups with saucers. Add a little milk and sugar if you like, or serve it black and brooding, like a knight in a rainy novel.
🥪 Savories
Cucumber sandwiches on soft white bread, lightly buttered, with a sprinkle of sea salt
Coronation chicken salad on mini brioche rolls
Egg and cress on rye, cut into triangles
Mini sausage rolls, warm and flaky, with a touch of mustard on the side
🍰 Sweets
Scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam
Victoria sponge cake, feather-light and filled with raspberry jam and whipped cream
Treacle tart or Bakewell slices, for a taste of classic comfort
Red velvet cupcakes with tiny St. George’s crosses piped on top
🌹 A Touch of Red and White
Decorate the table with red roses—the flower of England—and white linens or lace. Add a few paper dragons, and let the tea party feel like a celebration that could happen in a cozy cottage by the sea or the corner of an old inn.
St. George’s Day may not be the loudest holiday on the calendar, but it holds something gentle and timeless. A reminder of valor, tradition, and the beauty of sitting down to tea with the people you love. So raise your teacup, eat the second scone, tell your favorite dragon story, and celebrate like an English rose with a sword at her side. ⚔️
