Scone Wars: Why Devon Does It Best This National Cream Tea Day

Friday June 27^th is National Cream Tea Day, and we’re ready to raise our teacups in patriotic celebration of one of Britain’s most gloriously indulgent (and delicious) traditions. Scones, jam, clotted cream, and a proper brew – what could be more comforting, more nostalgic, or more controversial?

Yes, controversial. Because while the cream tea might seem like a quaint affair, it hides a deliciously deep-rooted rivalry. A westcountry standoff. Devon and Cornwall have been locked in a battle of the scones for centuries – and it all comes down to the order of jam and cream.

Let’s unpack this sticky battleground, and (with totally unbiased objectivity) declare Devon the rightful winner.

A Little Cream Tea History (Served with a Scone on the Side)

The origins of the cream tea stretch back to the 11th century, where monks at Tavistock Abbey in Devon (sorry Cornwall) were said to serve bread with cream and strawberry preserves to weary travellers. So technically, Devon was spreading clotted cream dreams before Cornwall even had the kettle on.

The cream tea as we know it today began to bloom during the 19th century when tourists started arriving in the South West by rail. Local tearooms and hotels quickly cottoned on to the idea of afternoon indulgence, serving freshly baked scones with thick local clotted cream and jam.

But while Devon serves cream first, then jam, Cornwall insists on jam first, then cream. To which we say: you wouldn’t butter your toast after putting the marmalade on, would you?

Devon vs Cornwall: The Great Spread Debate

Let’s get into it. Devon cream tea aficionados insist on:

• Scone sliced in half (never cut with a knife – this is sacred baking).
• A generous dollop of clotted cream first – acting as a rich, creamy base.
• Finished with a spoonful of strawberry jam on top, adding a bright, sweet zing.

Cornwall, on the other hand, flips this glorious order and for some bizarrely unknown reason plonks cream on top of jam like it’s some sort of dairy afterthought.

Devon’s argument? Putting cream on first is practical – it’s like buttering bread. It spreads better. It holds the jam. It’s structurally sound. And frankly, it looks more elegant. Even the late Queen was #TeamDevon (that’s Devon 2, Cornwall 0 for those keeping score), making the Devon way the only way that this quintessentially British delight should be enjoyed.

Celebrate Cream Tea Day the Devon Way – at Cofton!

So where can you honour this most mouthwatering of traditions? Look no further than Cofton Holidays, nestled in the heart of beautiful South Devon, where our cream teas are served the proper way.

This National Cream Tea Day, we’re serving:

• Freshly baked, fluffy scones (made on-site, still warm)
• Locally sourced, velvety clotted cream
• strawberry jam
• A pot of tea to wash it down or upgrade to prosecco and enjoy with a glass of fizz

Whether you’re staying with us, popping in for a stroll and a scone, or just passing through on your Devon adventure, make sure to stop by and taste the tradition that started it all.

Come for the views, stay for the scones – and don’t forget: cream first, always.

Happy National Cream Tea Day, everyone!