The British public are a proud tea-drinking nation where the popular refreshment is taking with intense seriousness and enjoyed all over. A whopping 60billion cups are consumed per year averaging more than 165million cups per day in the homes of Britain. With a society heavily reliant on the warmth of a brew, its no surprise that the 21st of April is known annually as British National tea day.

Tea has been an imminent factor of life across the world for decades but its first significant appearance in the UK was as a result of a Portuguese woman named Catherine of Braganza.

In 1662 she married the monarch, King Charles the second and held within her marriage settlement, crates full of loose tea leaves. The newly established queen began to consume her tea daily and this habit soon caught the eye of aristocrats across the country influencing the popularity of this much loved drink.

Outside of Britain, tea was having an impact on other cultures and societies with a green tea rise in regions of China and Japan along with Chai tea compiled of spices and boiled milk and water in South Asian countries.

Tea has been a common and distinct characteristic of the United Kingdom for years. The celebrations of this day come in all shapes and sizes, so how can you get involved this year?

Hosting your own afternoon tea gathering to discover and discuss the varieties available on the market and a great social event to bring together all corners of the British public. Becoming an annual attendee of the ‘Fes-TEA-val’ held on the 21st of April to completely immerse yourself in the Great British culture.

Not only is this day a reflection of our values and comforts, it further units the nation as a whole by being set on Queen Elizabeth’s birthday.

So why is tea such a popular choice amongst Britons?

The endless variety to choose from means everyone can find a flavour to suit their taste. Despite all deriving from the same plant, the differences are influenced by how the leaves are processed and their growing conditions. Resulting in a selection from black, green and white plus so many more.

93 year old Douglas Cooper expressed how tea is “an essential part of my daily routine” and he has the drink “with breakfast, lunch, dinner and in the garden or watching television.” Many people have commented on its warming and comforting attributes.

Olivia Barrett (17) enjoys tea “after school when I’m doing homework and revision.” Possibly used as a stress relief and calming agent.

 Additionally, black and green tea provide benefits towards general health. From reduction of bad cholesterol levels and improvements in blood vessel function. Its content are additional hydrating as it consists of 90% water. Many types of tea are brilliant antioxidants and provide vitamin H to help support and strengthen the immune system.

Whether you have 3 sugars, lots of milk or accompanied by a biscuit, all tea drinkers can celebrate this national holiday on the 21st of April to show love for our top voted refreshment. Pop into one of your local cafes and appreciate the simplicity of a warm brew.