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Royal-tea for a royal wedding
There is no better way to celebrate the royal wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle on the 19th May than with one of the Queens favourite drinks, tea.
There is something patriotic about drinking tea, perhaps this is because tea is a prominent feature in British culture.
Tea first became fashionable at the Royal Court and then among the aristocracy, with the marriage of Charles II to Portuguese princess Catherine of Braganza, who had loved tea since childhood. Catherine had impressed the ladies at court with her beautiful cups, saucers and teapots and so teatime naturally became an integral part of the royal household.
The culture of Afternoon Tea is said to have originated from Queen Victoria’s friend, the Seventh Duchess of Bedford. To tide her over until dinner, at mid-afternoon, the Duchess had started drinking tea and having a light snack. Afternoon Tea was officially born when she began inviting guests to join her. Queen Victoria embraced this idea and she and Prince Albert began the Royal tradition of enjoying Afternoon Tea 4-6pm.
Today Queen Elizabeth II enjoys her Afternoon Tea at the Palace. In fact, it has been said that Meghan Markle has enjoyed Afternoon Tea at Buckingham Palace with the Queen prior to Prince Harrys engagement to Meghan Markle. Some may argue that tea has played an integral part in the wedding of Meghan and Harry, with it forming the foundation of this important meeting.
Tea also plays a large part in the Queens garden parties. Around 27,000 cups of tea are consumed at each event.
It has been announced that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s first official engagement as a married couple will be at a garden party, the Prince of Wales’ 70th Birthday Patronage Celebration on 22nd May.
Across the nation, during the royal wedding festivities, communities will gather for street par-teas. It is a great way to celebrate this special occasion, so hang out the bunting, put the kettle on and make yourself a large pot of tea to share with friends and neighbours.
Live coverage of the big day will also be broadcast on big screens across the country. Our very own Lincoln Castle will be holding a screening; however, it is non-ticketed and will be on a first- come first- served basis. Boultham Park and Belton House are two of many venues to also have large screenings of the wedding, so feel free to pop along and soak in the atmosphere.
Sitting comfortably at home? Why not dust off your best tea set, brew yourself a pot of tea in your favourite tea pot, switch on the television and relax and enjoy this national celebration?
Be sure to cut yourself a slice of cake, it would be rude not to! … Clear your diary and make yourself free on this royal wedding date. Why don’t you raise a cup of your own counties Lincolnshire Tea and toast the happy couple on this very special day?
Looking to stock up for the royal wedding? Why not find your nearest stockist of Lincolnshire Tea today to support your country and county?
