Special Features - Places for a good cuppa

Places for a good cuppa
(01/07/07)

There are many tearooms across the UK to get that perfect brew. (Credit: britainonview/ Rod Edwards)

Brits love a good cup of tea, come wind rain or shine, and according to the Tea Council there are many tearooms across the UK where you can get a perfect brew.

If you want the true British tea-drinking experience then a trip to a tearoom is a must and a visit to Peacocks Tearoom in Ely, Cambridgeshire, is a good place to start.

Named the 2007 UK Top Tea Place by the Tea Council, it offers a relaxing atmosphere where you can sample an amazing range of teas from all over the world.

A welcoming tearoom

Tea connoisseurs, as well as those just starting out on their tea-drinking experience, are attracted to Peacocks by the "very warm and welcoming tearoom, attractively decorated with a display of tea memorabilia and pictures and the pretty garden," says Irene Gorman, the head of The Tea Guild.

Experts are also on hand to advise you on the different tea types and flavours and visitors can taste the delights of excellent sandwiches, scones and cakes.

Sheer sophistication

The Dorchester in London is another place offering a unique tea-drinking experience. Named the Top London Afternoon Tea spot for 2007, it is geared to the those expecting sophistication and class.

According to Irene: "The sumptuous elegance of The Promenade at The Dorchester sets a perfect theme for a very special afternoon tea. The tea list is well selected and the staff are delighted to advise guests with their choice of tea and then proceed to brew the many different varieties perfectly and to bring fresh pots whenever guests require them."

Perfect Places for afternoon tea

The AA & Tea Council's book, Afternoon Tea – Perfect Places for Afternoon Tea (which can be purchased via the Tea Council website), gives you a complete guide to ideal places to check out, including Peacocks and The Dorchester.

Tea is one of the most popular drinks in the UK and much more than just a hot beverage.

It is more a social ritual and in most homes, tea-shops and hotels, the custom of tea-time still flourishes with a good cuppa usually accompanied by a scone and good conversation!

For more information about tea-drinking in the UK see the link below.