300 Years of Tea Obsession: Inside London’s OLDEST Tea Shop
Tea is a big deal in the UK.
But did you know that Twinings has been selling tea from the same spot on the Strand for over 300 years?
That makes it the oldest tea shop in London.
If you’re into tea or just want to step into a bit of history, it’s worth a visit.
This isn’t just any tea shop.
It’s small, tucked between larger buildings, but packed with character.
The walls are lined with tea tins, from classic Earl Grey to unusual blends you won’t find in supermarkets.
There’s also a tasting counter where staff help you find a tea that suits your taste.
Tea Blends
The number of different teas on offer is substantial.
How many variations and flavours can you get?
I thought green tea and Earl Grey were the only teas out there. Boy, was I wrong.
You can buy teas based on benefits.
For example, there are teas for Sleep, Immune Support, and Focus. There are even ones for sweet dreams and menopause.
Thought green tea was the only green tea out there?
Wrong.
You can get Salted Caramel Indulgence Green Tea to Gingerbread flavour (Christmas flavours).
Alternatively, what about a spiced chai or blood orange and cranberry tea?
You can find a wide variety of teas to suit every taste.
What Can You Do There?
If you just want to browse, that’s fine. But there’s more to do. You can:
- Try different teas at the tasting bar. Whether you like strong breakfast tea or delicate green tea, they’ll help you pick something.
- Buy exclusive blends. Some teas are only sold in this store.
- Check out the Twinings history display. They have old tea caddies, photos, and letters from when the company first started.
- Book a tea masterclass. These are paid sessions where you can learn about different types of tea and how to brew them properly.
Interesting Facts About the Store
- Twinings has been on the Strand since 1706. That’s older than the USA!
- The shop’s doorway is one of the narrowest in London. If you’re not looking, you might walk right past it.
- The Twinings logo, still used today, is the oldest company logo in continuous use.
- Famous figures like Jane Austen and Charles Dickens drank Twinings tea.
- The shop’s entrance is marked by a golden lion sign, which dates back to when it was known as the Golden Lyon.
- The shop also houses a small museum dedicated to its history
