Why do the English drink tea from China?

The reign of Queen Victoria was the setting for the beginning of the modern English fascination with tea. The nobles at court found themselves getting sleepy in mid afternoon, and a cup of tea, recently brought back to England by British voyagers, proved to be just the trick. In the 1840's the queen began having a daily afternoon tea with snacks and pastries. A permanent tradition was born.

Formal English tea fare includes many items. Elaborate bite sized sandwiches and a plethora of sweets and pastries are incorporated into these afternoon events. Trays of different items are placed all over the sitting room were tea is served.
The tea drinkers often dress up and attend afternoon tea in formal dress.