Top 5 English Tea Books

As a lover of tea and all things English, I have decided to piece together my choice of Top 5 English Tea Books. The following collection, act as the perfect book shelf accompaniments.

5. The Ritz London Book Of Afternoon Tea: The Art and Pleasures of Taking Tea

By Helen Simpson – Random House UK (2006) – Hardback – 64 pages – ISBN 0091909945

Taking tea is quintessentially English, and who is a greater authority on the subject than the sumptuous London Ritz Hotel? Delightfully illustrated, this charming Edwardian-style book provides you with all the know-how on the ceremony, as well as the recipes.

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4. Tea at Fortnum & Mason

By Fortnum & Mason – Random House UK (2010) – Hardback – 128 pages – ISBN 009193768X

A concise yet sumptuous guide presenting everything there is to know about the art of taking tea. From the internationally renowned store in Piccadilly that is embroidered with style, elegance, and English charm, celebrating the long-standing British institution, this beautiful pocket book covers everything from the history of afternoon tea drinking to Fortnum’s relationship with tea. It also presents more than 45 recipes for all types of teatime delight, as well as guiding the reader through the best types of tea to accompany them. Beautifully illustrated with charming vintage tea advertisements and glorious recipe photos, this book is a must-have for tea drinkers everywhere.

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3. Tea and Cake London

By Zena Alkayat – Black Dog Publishing Limited London (2011) – Paperback – 192 pages – ISBN 1907317481

Tea & Cake London is a comprehensive guide to the best places to enjoy tea and cake across the capital. Charming, knowledgeable and often surprising, this lovely book roots out more than 70 cafes, bakeries and tearooms worth discovering, and illustrates each venue with stunning photography. So whether you’re looking for a traditional afternoon tea, a casual cafe in which to gossip over a brew, a bakery selling elite buttery treats, innocent vegan delights or an oddball tearoom with a twist, Tea & Cake London has the answer. Each entry highlights a special destination, and tempts you to indulge in a much-loved and very British pastime.

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2. London’s Afternoon Teas: A Guide to London’s Most Stylish and Exquisite Tea Venues

By Susan Cohen – New Holland (2012) – Hardback – 96 pages – ISBN 1847739938

London and tea go together like jam and scones, and this lovely guide presents 40 fine places to enjoy afternoon tea in the city. From classic spots like Claridge’s and the Wolseley to more unexpected, off-the-beaten-path places, there’s something here to suit every taste and budget. A history of the venues, details on their available teas, and advice on nearby attractions make this the hippest, most up-to-date source of information for London residents and tourists alike.

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1. The Vintage Tea Party Book

By Angel Adoree – Octopus Publishing Group (2011) – Hardback – 304 pages – ISBN 184533647X

Vintage Patisserie is a vintage hosting company offering bespoke tea parties from a bygone era, delivering everything from music, makeovers and – of course – a customised menu of tea party treats that elevate any function into a swanky soiree. The Vintage Tea Party Book embraces the style and class of the trendy London Vintage scene and illustrates how to beautifully recreate the tasty treats and classic styles at home. With a unique mixture of recipes and feature spreads with accessible tips on hairstyling, makeup methods and where to collect vintage china — The Vintage Tea Party Book has it all.

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