English High Tea

The early 17th century saw the export of tea from southeast China to Europe via both land and sea. The credit for this belongs to Holland. All European countries, except Russia and Portugal, bought their Chinese tea leaves from Holland. When England first imported tea leaves, it was sold in apothecaries as a form of medicine. In the 1760s, during the time of King Charles II, it slowly became a form of drink. The British queen, Portuguese princess Catherine, brought the Portuguese custom of drinking tea into the British royal family. She held tea parties that became important social functions among the aristocracy. Tea drinking in society first appeared in coffeehouses. These coffeehouses were exclusively for men; single ladies were not allowed access. The first British teahouse opened in the 19th century and became a social ground for single ladies.
Tea drinking slowly spread to all levels of the English society. The choice of tea also slowly changed from green tea to black tea. The reason that the British choose black tea over green tea was not a coincidence. Green tea does not preserve well so was not conducive for long-distance shipping. Black tea however, lasts longer. In addition, England's climate is cold and humid. There is rarely a sunny day and the skies are always gray. Such a climate is suitable for drinking black tea, which is warming. Moreover, Britishers have the habit of adding milk and sugar to tea, adding to the warmth-generating nature of the tea. Therefore, they naturally favor black tea.
The English drink tea at all times. They habitually drink tea before breakfast. During their afternoon break, they enjoy “afternoon tea.” They are known for their high teas. Around 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., no matter how busy, the English drop everything, for high tea. This is a leisurely time with friends. The English prefer to add sugar, milk or lemon juice to their tea. Earl Grey Tea, Rose Tea, Peppermint Tea, Lavender tea are all favorites among the English. Over three hundred years, all the monarchs of England have remained loyal in their love for tea. They are steadfast advocates of tea drinking and believe that drinking tea is a reflection of one's elegance and charisma. England is one of the countries that imports the most tea. Its tea-drinking custom remains popular even after several hundred years.