The Traditional British Cup of Tea Is Changing

The UK needs to nurture younger tea drinkers.The traditional English cup of tea, once considered a necessary luxury, is undergoing its biggest change since tea was first advertised for sale in London in 1657. British tea consumption has fallen from 2.5 ounces per person per week to less than an ounce. That means Britons are drinking…

Tea at London’s Maids of Honour

How do I top off a morning after viewing the world-class gardens at Kew?  I like to stop for tea at the Original Maids of Honour, located outside the garden wall on Kew Road. It’s my favorite refreshment stop along the short walk back to Kew station for the 30-minute tube ride to Central London.Those who…

The Royal Kitchens at Kew Palace

A tasty dish to set before the king.The Dining Room at Kew Palace served King George III’s family and guests. In February 1789, this also included the King’s doctor, Dr. Willis. England had been thrown into turmoil the previous year as the King was declared ‘mad’ after the onset of a mysterious illness, probably porphyria. This…

Gentleman’s Tea at London’s Athenaeum Hotel

Jane Pettigrew chats with Bruce Richardson over tea at The Athenaeum.I had the opportunity recently to preview the new Gentleman's Afternoon Tea offered at London's 5-star Hotel Athenaeum, located in fashionable Mayfair on Piccadilly across from Green Park. Afternoon tea unfolds here every day in the sunny Garden Room, enclosed on one side by the hotel’s unique ‘Living Wall’ – home to…