Tea as a cultural bridge between China and the UK

The story began in the 17th century, when Dutch merchant ships first brought Chinese black tea to Europe, sparking a fascination that would eventually make tea a cornerstone of British daily life. As tea took root, the two countries developed strikingly different tea cultures. In China, tea is traditionally "drunk pure," where loose leaves are brewed directly with hot water and appreciated for their natural aroma. In Britain, however, crushed tea leaves brewed in bone china teapots, often served with milk and sugar, became the norm. Flavored blends such as Earl Grey, scented with citrus, add a distinctive twist.

Today, this exchange has come full circle. In major Chinese cities like Beijing and Shanghai, British-style afternoon tea has evolved into a popular local social and cultural experience. Luxury hotels and independent tea rooms blend classic elements such as scones, jam, and tiered stands, with Chinese aesthetics and flavors. Shows such as "Downton Abbey" and "The Great British Bake Off" have also fueled Chinese consumers' growing interest in British tea-time foods and rituals.