HADLEY’S ORIENT HOTEL - HOBART

This Grand Old Dame of Hobart sits in the heart of the historic CBD amidst an array of boutique shops and chic eateries, just a short stroll from some of Hobart’s most popular activities, attractions and cultural experiences. But Hadley’s is so much more than just a place to stay while exploring the city – it’s an experience in itself. The hotel has almost two centuries of stories wrapped into its fabric; its past is woven with scandals and secrets, and tales of convicts, entrepreneurs and celebrities-past. ​

One of Hadley’s proudest traditions is their afternoon tea, served in the sun-bathed Atrium. You can enjoy a selection of fine loose-leaf teas accompanied by the quintessential three-tiered stand consisting of Hadley’s freshly-baked signature scones, delicate sandwiches, delightful savouries, and traditional sweet treats reminiscent of the Victorian era. Attentive service complements the finest quality Noritake china. From the hand-crafted wooden tea display menu, to the crisp white linen, to the quaint sugar cubes and tongs, no detail is overlooked. Afternoon tea at Hadley’s Orient Hotel is a must for visitors and locals alike. Become part of Hadley’s history.
 
The highs and lows of taking tea
The practice of taking tea in the afternoon was inspired by Anna Maria Russell, the seventh Duchess of Bedford and one of Queen Victoria’s ladies-in-waiting.
 
When gas lighting was introduced to Britain in the 1800s it became fashionable to dine later in the evening, and so the gap between lunch and dinner widened considerably. Legend has it that the Duchess began asking for a tray of tea, sandwiches and small cakes at around 4pm as a way to quell the inevitable hunger pangs. The habit quickly developed into an enjoyable social occasion as she invited friends to join her for refreshments.
 
Back then it was customary among the upper-class and society women to change into long gowns, gloves and hats and convene for afternoon tea in the gardens, drawing room or parlour. This practice, with an emphasis on presentation and conversation, was also known as ‘low tea’ in reference to the low armchairs and side tables at which guests were seated. The tradition of taking tea became so popular among affluent classes that it fast became one of the mainstays of the British way of life. As the tradition expanded from the Victorian elite to the working class, the ‘high tea’ was developed. Considered the main meal of the day and taken either standing up or seated upon tall stools (thus ‘high’) at around 6pm, fare typically consisted of meat, bread, vegetables, and, of course, tea.

HADLEY’S ORIENT HOTEL 
34 Murray Street, Hobart
www.hadleyshotel.com.au
(03) 6237 2999
Afternoon tea served Wednesday to Sunday 2pm – 5pm, bookings essential

Words & Images from the book: Tailored Tasmania 2