National Tea Day - April 21st

April 21st is National Tea Day – the perfect excuse to pop the kettle on and celebrate Britain’s favourite drink. Tea is more than just a beverage for us; it’s a bit of a national obsession. But why do we love it so much? And how does Britain’s tea passion compare to the rest of the world? Let’s take a closer look.

Why Do the British Love Tea So Much?

Tea has been a staple in Britain for centuries, ever since it was introduced in the 17th century. Over time, it became a household essential, from the comforting ritual of afternoon tea to the ever-essential builder’s brew, tea is woven into the fabric of daily life. The phrase “I’ll put the kettle on” is practically a national reflex when faced with any situation. Whether it’s a heart-to-heart chat, a stressful day at work, or even a minor crisis, tea is our ever-reliable comfort companion. A good cuppa makes everything better, cementing its place as the nation’s go-to drink.

It’s also a bridge between generations. Many of us have fond memories of childhood visits to family members' homes, where a cup of tea (perhaps with a sneaky biscuit or two) was a symbol of warmth and welcome. It’s no surprise that for many of us, tea is synonymous with comfort, nostalgia, and home.

Why Do We Celebrate National Tea Day?

National Tea Day is all about celebrating Britain’s long-standing love for tea, encouraging people to come together over a cuppa and explore the different varieties from around the world. It’s a chance to try something new – maybe a classic English Breakfast, a soothing chamomile, or something a little more adventurous. Plus, it’s a great excuse to treat yourself to a proper tea break.

It’s also a reminder of how tea connects us, not just to our own traditions but to tea-growing regions worldwide – from Sri Lanka to China to India. Each cup carries a little bit of history and craftsmanship.

How Popular is Tea in Britain Compared to the Rest of the World?

Britain and tea go hand in hand, but funnily enough, we’re not the biggest tea drinkers globally! While, as a whole, we drink a staggering 100 million cups of tea a day (that’s over 36 billion a year!)* countries like Turkey actually top the charts in tea consumption. In Turkey, black tea is served strong and often in delicate tulip-shaped glasses.

Other major tea-loving nations include China, India, and Japan, where tea is deeply embedded in culture and tradition. While we love our strong black tea with milk, other countries have their own take – from India’s spiced Masala Chai to Japan’s ceremonial matcha.

How to Celebrate National Tea Day

It’s simple – drink tea! But if you fancy making it extra special, why not:

• Host an afternoon tea with friends or family.
• Try a new variety of tea – you might discover a new favourite.
• Visit a local tea house or café and support independent businesses.
• Learn more about where your tea comes from and how it’s made.
• Take a moment to sit back, sip, and enjoy.

So, whether you love it strong and milky, black with a slice of lemon, or iced with a fruity twist, National Tea Day is a great excuse to celebrate the country's favourite beverage. Happy sipping!