The captivating tea-drinking culture of England

2021-07-22

The history and customs surrounding tea in Britain are an important and fascinating part of the country's culture. Want to know more about five o'clock tea, England's favourite tea types and preparing a brew in the British tradition? Read on.

What is the history of tea in England?

The beginnings of tea in Britain date to the turn of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. Tea reached this part of Europe through a London merchant named Thomas Garraway. Another important figure is Catherine of Braganza, the wife of King Charles II, who popularised tea among the English. She is not, however, considered the originator of afternoon tea, or five o'clock tea. That idea is credited to Anna Maria Russell, Duchess of Bedford.

The tea first enjoyed in England came from China. Over time, the British recognised the potential for growing tea bushes in India, where they had a colony. This proved a successful move: Britain not only made tea popular among its own citizens but also became a major player in the world market. Assam and Ceylon are examples of teas cultivated under British rule that are now widely renowned.

How is tea enjoyed in Britain?

Tea appears several times in the average English person's day: after breakfast, during lunch and at the celebrated five o'clock tea. At five in the afternoon, people relax in tearooms, cafés, restaurants or their homes. They focus on freshly brewed tea, enjoying its distinctive flavour and aroma while having biscuits, sandwiches or other snacks. It is a kind of afternoon snack or light meal that keeps hunger at bay until dinner, usually around eight or nine in the evening.

Besides the amber drink served on its own, tea with milk is also popular. In the tradition described here, milk goes into the cup first, followed by freshly brewed tea. This order is considered important because it is believed to improve the drink's flavour and aroma.

Statistically speaking, the English drink a great deal of tea. Annual consumption is around 2 kg per person in Britain, or approximately six mugs a day per person.

Which teas are most popular in England?

There is little doubt that Britain's best-known favourite is English Breakfast Tea: a strong, distinctive and gently stimulating breakfast tea. Next is Earl Grey, black tea flavoured with bergamot oil. A third not to miss is English Afternoon Tea, intended for the afternoon break described earlier. This name generally refers to a blend with a refreshing taste and subtle aroma.

How do you brew tea in the English tradition?

The importance the English attach to tea means it should be prepared with respect for the product. To approach tea brewing in the British style, follow these recommendations:

Choose a loose-leaf black tea such as English Breakfast Tea, Earl Grey, English Afternoon Tea, Assam Tea or Ceylon Tea.
Boil filtered water.
Measure 1–3 teaspoons of tea, depending on the vessel, and put it into an infuser.
Fill the pot, teapot or mug with water at 100°C.
Cover and brew for around three minutes, no longer.
Separate the tea leaves from the infusion.
Enjoy the distinctive flavour of the black tea in your cup.

What do the British terms high tea and low tea mean?

You may have heard the terms high tea and low tea. How should they be understood?

Let us begin with high tea. The expression comes from the high tables and chairs associated with the substantial meals eaten by English workers during an afternoon break, usually meat dishes accompanied by tea.

And low tea? Essentially another name for afternoon tea, it refers to upper-class people drinking tea and eating sweet treats at lower tables in tearooms, restaurants and similar places. This setting allowed a leisurely afternoon meal and time to savour tea without any rush.

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