Tea is far more than a beverage in Britain. it’s a cornerstone of the culture. London, as the epicentre of the UK’s tea heritage, boasts an exceptional variety of tea companies that range from centuries-old heritage brands to new-wave artisanal producers.
The capital city serves as both a historic and contemporary marketplace for tea lovers around the world. In this blog, we’ll explore the most renowned tea companies operating in London today, examining what makes them special and why they continue to stand out in a competitive and fast-evolving tea landscape.
What Makes a Tea Company Stand Out in London?
Embracing Tradition While Innovating
London’s leading tea companies excel at blending timeless British tradition with contemporary consumer expectations. Many of them have roots going back hundreds of years, carrying with them legacies of quality and craftsmanship.
Yet, they don’t shy away from innovation. Whether it’s reimagining old favourites like Earl Grey with a twist of citrus or launching new herbal blends aimed at health-conscious customers, London tea companies are at the forefront of the tea evolution.
Commitment to Ethical and Sustainable Sourcing
Today’s tea enthusiasts are more aware of the supply chain behind their brew. The best London-based tea companies are transparent about sourcing practices, working directly with farmers across Sri Lanka, India, China, Japan, and Africa.
Many have gone the extra mile to secure certifications such as Rainforest Alliance, Fairtrade, or Soil Association Organic. They’ve also adopted biodegradable packaging and low-carbon delivery options to align with the city’s growing eco-conscious movement.
A Focus on Customer Experience
It’s not just about the leaf. it’s about the experience. From intimate tea tastings and educational workshops to luxurious tearooms and curated subscription boxes, these brands create immersive tea moments for their customers. Whether in-store or online, the customer experience is thoughtfully designed to educate and inspire.
Which Are the Top 10 Tea Companies in London?
1. Whittard of Chelsea – “British Heritage in Every Sip”
Whittard of Chelsea began its journey in 1886 when Walter Whittard opened his first store on Fleet Street. Over the decades, it has evolved into a renowned British tea brand celebrated for its blend of tradition, innovation, and exceptional variety.
It is well known for its extensive range of loose-leaf teas, instant teas, and innovative flavour combinations. From classic English Breakfast to exotic Mango Bergamot, Whittard blends tradition with a flair for flavour.
Its flagship store in Covent Garden offers tea tastings, gifting options, and limited-edition seasonal teas, making it a destination for both locals and tourists.
Signature Selection
Offers limited-edition blends and infused teas tailored for every season.
Ideal Choice
Perfect for gift seekers and traditional tea lovers looking for premium packaging.
Pricing: Starting from £6.50 for 100g loose-leaf tea. Gift sets range from £15 to £60.
- Website: www.whittard.co.uk
- Phone: +44 1993 223 733
- Address: 9, The Marketplace, London WC2E 8RB, United Kingdom
- Email: info@whittard.co.uk
Review: ★★★★☆
“Lovely shop with knowledgeable staff. Their Chelsea Garden blend is my absolute favourite!”
2. Twinings – “Where British Tea Began”
As one of the oldest tea companies in the world, Twinings has been serving Londoners since 1706. Its original location on The Strand remains operational and houses a tea museum and tasting bar.
Twinings is internationally acclaimed for its classics Earl Grey, English Breakfast, and Lady Grey but also produces a growing range of herbal infusions and wellness teas. The brand’s commitment to responsible sourcing and blend consistency has helped it remain a household name for over three centuries.
Tea Heritage
World-class classics served with a history lesson at their Strand tea bar.
Great Pick
Best for tea traditionalists and history lovers wanting a heritage-rich experience.
Pricing: From £2.99 for 20 bags. Luxury teas and gift boxes range up to £35.
- Website: www.twinings.co.uk
- Phone: +44 1264 313444
- Address: 216 Strand, London WC2R 1AP
- Email: twinings.direct@twinings.com
Review: ★★★★★
“The Strand shop is stunning. Their Lady Grey has a perfect citrus finish. A timeless classic.”
3. Fortnum & Mason – “Tea Fit for Royalty”
Fortnum & Mason, established in 1707, is synonymous with luxury. The Piccadilly-based department store is famous for its Royal Blend and Countess Grey teas, often served in its refined Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon.
The company holds several royal warrants and is the go-to destination for afternoon tea in London. With elegantly designed tea caddies and exceptional customer service, Fortnum’s represents the pinnacle of British indulgence.
Featured Infusions
Offers regal blends like Royal Blend and Smoky Earl Grey in luxurious packaging.
Most Suitable
Ideal for premium gift buyers and those seeking an upscale afternoon tea.
Pricing: Loose-leaf teas from £10. Afternoon tea experience starts at £75 per person.
- Website: www.fortnumandmason.com
- Phone: +44 20 7734 8040
- Address: 181 Piccadilly, St. James’s, London W1A 1ER
Review: ★★★★★
“Unforgettable experience. The Royal Blend is rich, smooth, and truly deserving of the name.”
4. Mariage Frères – “Parisian Luxury in the Heart of London”
A French export, Mariage Frères opened its London tea emporium in Covent Garden in 2019. With over 1,000 teas to choose from and a menu that includes tea-infused dishes, Mariage Frères offers a unique take on tea culture.
Renowned for signature teas like Marco Polo and their exclusive blue varieties, this brand impresses with its refined selection and a distinctly luxurious presentation. Its interior design echoes 19th-century colonial salons, making it as much a visual experience as a flavourful one.
Signature Blends
The company curates a premium range of rare offerings, including limited-edition vintage teas and unique blue infusions cherished by collectors.
Recommended For
Ideal for luxury seekers and those craving rare, elegant blends.
Pricing: Teas start at £22 for 100g. Tea experiences range from £30–£100.
- Website: www.mariagefreres.com
- Phone: +44 20 7836 1854
- Address: 38 King Street, Covent Garden, London WC2E 8JS
- Email: info@mariagefreres.com
Review: ★★★★☆
“A sensory delight! The Marco Polo blend is unmatched. Pricey, but worth it.”
5. Camellios – “Modern Tea Blends with a British Twist”
Camellios is a rising tea brand based in London that focuses on offering premium-quality, small-batch teas designed for modern living. The brand is known for its artisanal loose-leaf teas made with natural ingredients, all blended and packed in the UK.
Camellios stands out for its clean, minimalist branding and its commitment to freshness, flavour, and wellness. Popular blends include Calming Chamomile, Zesty Lemongrass & Ginger, and their best-selling Sleepy Tea, aimed at relaxation and stress relief. Their range covers black, green, herbal, and functional blends, with a strong emphasis on transparency and sustainability.
Standout Blends
Offers calming and invigorating herbal blends designed for balance and wellness.
Ideal For
Perfect for wellness-minded drinkers who want quality and simplicity in every cup.
Pricing: From £6.49 per 50g. Bundles and wellness sets from £16–£30.
- Website: www.camellios.com
- Phone: +44 20 3442 0140
- Address: Page St, London SW1P 4BH, UK
- Email: hello@camellios.com
Review: ★★★★☆
“Their Sleepy Tea has become part of my nightly ritual pure, relaxing, and beautifully aromatic.”
6. Yumchaa – “Where Tea Meets Creativity”
Yumchaa is a modern loose-leaf tea company known for its playful approach to tea naming and flavouring. With cafés in Camden, Soho, and Tottenham Court Road, the brand appeals to London’s urban crowd.
Creative infusions such as Chilli Chai and the whimsically named Notting Hill have earned a strong local following for their bold and balanced flavours. The décor and vibe of Yumchaa shops are laid-back and creative, making them ideal hangouts for students, artists, and casual tea drinkers.
House Specials
Flavoured teas with names inspired by London life and culture.
Great Match
Well-suited to casual tea lovers and younger audiences, this brand excels at offering flavourful variety with a modern twist.
Pricing: From £4.95 per 100g. Teaware and bundles available from £20.
- Website: www.yumchaa.com
- Phone: +44 7990 056787
- Address: 9–11 Tottenham Street, London W1T 2AQ
- Email: info@yumchaa.com
Review: ★★★★☆
“Creative, relaxing atmosphere. Their Enchanted Forest is a unique delight.”
7. Postcard Teas – “Tea from the World’s Smallest Farms”
Nestled in a quiet lane near Bond Street, Postcard Teas caters to discerning tea drinkers with its curated selection of rare, small-batch leaf teas. Specialising in teas from estates smaller than 15 acres, the brand maintains close relationships with growers.
This direct-trade model guarantees quality and sustainability. The minimalist shop also serves as an educational space for brewing and understanding tea origins.
Distinct Choices
Small-batch, single-origin teas sourced directly from family-run farms.
Most Suitable For
Perfect for connoisseurs and those seeking transparency in sourcing.
Pricing: From £14 per 50g. Some rare selections go up to £50.
- Website: www.postcardteas.com
- Phone: +44 (0)20 7629 3654
- Address: 9 Dering Street, New Bond Street, London, W1S 1AG
- Email: info@postcardteas.com
Review: ★★★★★
“Truly one-of-a-kind. Their Japanese green tea was unlike anything I’ve tasted.”
8. Good & Proper Tea – “Tea Done Right, Every Time”
Founded with a mission to elevate how tea is brewed and served, Good & Proper Tea is based in Clerkenwell. The brand takes a purist approach focusing on single-origin teas, cold brews, and tea sodas. Their modern tea bar also doubles as a co-working space, reflecting the changing tea culture in London. Clean aesthetics and a strong ethical focus define their identity.
Favourite Picks
Known for cold brews, single-origin loose-leaf teas, and modern tea sodas.
Ideal Consumer
Great for eco-conscious tea drinkers and modern minimalists.
Pricing: From £6 per 100g. Cold brews from £2.50.
- Website: www.goodandpropertea.com
- Phone: 0208 088 2740
- Address: 24 Southwark Bridge Rd, London SE1 9HF, UK
- Email: hello@goodandpropertea.com
Review: ★★★★☆
“Minimal, modern, and ethically sound. The Lemongrass infusion is a standout.”
9. T2 Tea – “Global Tea Adventure, Australian Roots”
Originating in Melbourne, T2 has quickly found a loyal following in London thanks to its vibrant retail spaces and adventurous take on global tea flavours. Its locations in Shoreditch and Regent Street are colourful, vibrant, and full of sampling opportunities.
From Fruitalicious to Gorgeous Geisha, their teas are expressive and global in influence. Sustainability is a core value for T2, reflected in their use of recyclable materials and strong ethical sourcing practices that support both people and the planet.
Customer Favourites
Adventurous and playful blends with global ingredients.
Appeals To
Best for those exploring new flavour frontiers and tea newcomers.
Pricing: From £7 for 100g. Gifting kits from £20.
- Website: www.t2tea.com
- Phone: 07910809740
- Address: Borough Market, 8 Southwark Street, Three Crown Square, London SE1 1TL
- Email: mail@tea2you.co.uk
Review: ★★★★☆
“Love the vibe and variety. Their Fruitalicious is a staple in my kitchen.”
10. The Tea Makers of London – “Precision, Purity, Perfection”
Based in Greenwich, The Tea Makers of London have built a reputation for offering high-grade teas and a learning-focused approach that blends Eastern traditions with British tea expertise.
Their product range includes ceremonial matcha, jasmine pearls, and elegant teaware. With strong ethical sourcing and excellent customer service, the company appeals to both traditionalists and modern drinkers.
Hallmark Range
Specialises in Japanese and Chinese teas with accompanying ceremonial tools.
Best Matched With
Great for tea purists, matcha lovers, and serious hobbyists.
Pricing: From £8.95 per 100g. Teaware and gift sets available from £25.
- Website: www.theteamakers.co.uk
- Phone: 01322284923
- Address: 6 Applegarth Dr, Questor, Dartford DA1 1JD, United Kingdom
- Email: sales@theteamakers.co.uk
Review: ★★★★★
“High-grade matcha and outstanding service. A hidden gem for serious tea lovers.”
What Are the Signature Blends and Unique Offers from These Brands?
Exploring Distinctive Teas
Each company in London’s tea scene has at least one standout product that represents its philosophy and flavour profile. For instance, Twinings’ Lady Grey offers a softer take on the classic Earl Grey, while Fortnum & Mason’s Royal Blend is known for its subtle maltiness, a nod to aristocratic palates.
A Comparative Table of London’s Top Teas
| Brand Name | Signature Blend(s) | Distinctive Quality |
| Whittard of Chelsea | Mango Bergamot, English Rose | Elegant tins and diverse seasonal ranges |
| Twinings | Lady Grey, Pure Assam | 300+ years of history and classic blends |
| Fortnum & Mason | Royal Blend, Countess Grey | Luxurious salon and premium gift packaging |
| Mariage Frères | Marco Polo, Thé sur le Nil | Parisian sophistication meets London taste |
| Camellia’s Tea House | Tummy Tamer, Skin Purify | Focused on wellness and herbal formulas |
| Yumchaa | Enchanted Forest, Chilli Chai | Modern cafés and playful naming |
| Postcard Teas | Small Estate Green Tea | Rare teas from under-15-acre farms |
| Good & Proper Tea | Hojicha, Lemongrass | Direct-sourced and ethically produced |
| T2 Tea | Fruitalicious, Gorgeous Geisha | Trendy, flavour-forward blends |
| Tea Makers of London | Jasmine Pearls, Ceremonial Matcha | Craftsmanship with educational offerings |
Where Can You Enjoy Tea Tastings in London?
Immersive In-Store Experiences
Some of London’s top tea brands offer curated in-store tastings. Fortnum & Mason’s Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon delivers a royal-worthy afternoon tea complete with silver service. Similarly, Mariage Frères’ tearoom offers full-course meals infused with tea, providing a multi-sensory journey.
Virtual and Subscription Tastings
Modern brands like Good & Proper Tea and Postcard Teas cater to a global audience through virtual tastings and subscription boxes. Customers can taste curated selections in the comfort of their own homes, often guided by online tutorials or live sessions.
How Are These Companies Promoting Sustainability and Ethical Values?
From Ethical Sourcing to Eco Packaging
Transparency is at the heart of the best tea companies in London. Whether it’s biodegradable sachets from T2 or direct-from-farm purchases by Postcard Teas, every action counts towards reducing environmental impact.
Certifications That Matter
Several companies like Camellia’s Tea House and The Tea Makers of London are certified by the Soil Association or Rainforest Alliance. These certifications are more than labels they reflect an ongoing commitment to environmental and social well-being.
Are These Tea Companies Accessible Online and In-Person?
Easy Accessibility, Everywhere
London’s top tea companies understand the importance of making their products easily accessible to all types of customers. Whether you’re a visitor exploring the city or a local looking for a weekly tea fix, you’ll find these brands available through both physical storefronts and convenient online platforms. Many also provide international delivery, expanding their reach far beyond the capital.
From charming tea boutiques in Soho to elegant showrooms in Covent Garden and vibrant shops in Shoreditch, tea lovers can engage with these companies in person or from the comfort of their own home.
Detailed Table of Availability
| Tea Company | Physical Store Location(s) | Online Ordering Available | International Shipping |
| Whittard of Chelsea | Covent Garden, Westfield London, Bluewater | Yes | Yes |
| Twinings | The Strand, City of London | Yes | Yes |
| Fortnum & Mason | Piccadilly | Yes | Yes |
| Mariage Frères | Covent Garden, King Street | Yes | Yes |
| Camellia’s Tea House | Soho, online boutique showroom | Yes | Yes |
| Yumchaa | Camden, Soho, Tottenham Court Road | Yes | Yes |
| Postcard Teas | Dering Street (near Bond Street) | Yes | Yes |
| Good & Proper Tea | Clerkenwell Tea Bar & Brew Bar | Yes | Yes |
| T2 Tea | Regent Street, Shoreditch | Yes | Yes |
| The Tea Makers of London | Online store (HQ in Greenwich, showroom for appointments) | Yes | Yes |
Conclusion
London’s tea companies are more than just purveyors of a beloved beverage they are storytellers, artisans, and stewards of a cultural legacy. Whether you’re seeking luxury, sustainability, innovation, or authenticity, the capital’s tea scene delivers. These top 10 companies don’t just serve tea they create experiences that steep deep into the heart of London’s identity.
FAQs Tea Companies in London
Which tea company in London is the oldest?
Established in 1706, Twinings remains rooted at its original Strand location, making it one of London’s longest-standing names in tea history.
What is the best place in London for luxury tea experiences?
Fortnum & Mason offers a high-end afternoon tea experience in a refined setting.
Are herbal teas popular among these companies?
Indeed, both Camellia’s Tea House and Good & Proper Tea have earned recognition for their thoughtfully crafted herbal infusions designed to support everyday wellbeing.
Can I visit any of these tea companies physically?
Absolutely. Most have flagship stores or cafés in central London.
Do any of these companies offer subscription boxes?
Yes, Whittard, Good & Proper Tea, and The Tea Makers of London offer tea subscriptions.
What certifications should I look for in sustainable tea brands?
Look for Soil Association Organic, Rainforest Alliance, and Fairtrade certifications.
Which brands are best for unique or exotic tea blends?
Postcard Teas and Mariage Frères are known for their exclusive collections, offering lesser-known and exotic varieties that stand apart from mainstream tea selections.