The story of tea’s rise in Victorian England begins long before the era itself. Tea was first introduced to Europe via Portuguese traders who brought it back from China in the 17th century, primarily to Spain and Italy. However, it wasn't until the Dutch East India Company that tea truly began its journey into Britain, initially as a luxury item consumed almost exclusively by the wealthy elite – particularly after being promoted as having medicinal properties.
Catherine of Braganza, wife of King Charles II, played a pivotal role. A Portuguese noblewoman, she embraced tea with gusto and introduced it to the court at Whitehall Palace. Her daily consumption of tea became a public spectacle, further fueling its desirability and establishing a fashionable association with sophistication and good health. The Royal Warrant for tea was essentially born here; signalling that enjoying tea was a royal prerogative.
The reign of Queen Victoria (1837-1901) fundamentally shifted tea’s trajectory. Initially, she was a reluctant consumer, influenced by her Scottish upbringing where drinking hot beverages was less common. However, after becoming queen, she developed a passionate love for tea – particularly black tea – and actively promoted its consumption.
This royal endorsement sparked a dramatic increase in demand. Tea rooms began to proliferate across London and other cities, offering a social space for women to gather, converse, and enjoy a cup of tea accompanied by cakes and biscuits. These establishments became hubs for social interaction and a vital part of Victorian urban life.
Technological advancements also contributed to this shift. The invention of the teapot with a spout and lid made brewing tea more convenient, and improvements in shipping routes dramatically reduced the cost of importing tea from China, making it accessible to a wider segment of the population. The rise of tea blending further diversified flavor profiles, catering to different tastes.
Beyond a simple beverage, tea became deeply intertwined with Victorian social customs and etiquette. The 'five little ticks' ritual of serving tea – the specific way in which one lifted the cup to show appreciation – was meticulously codified, demonstrating respect and good manners.
Tea drinking was considered a feminine activity, largely undertaken by women in the home. It provided an opportunity for them to practice social graces, entertain guests, and maintain connections within their communities. The act of brewing and serving tea was seen as a domestic duty, reinforcing traditional gender roles.
Furthermore, tea became associated with moral virtue and restraint. Its association with calmness, contemplation, and refinement contrasted with the perceived excesses of alcohol consumption.