Many tea lovers are probably aware of at least the basics of the Earl Grey story. Earl Grey, the tea, is a type of flavored black tea infused with the distinctive oil of bergamot, a small citrus fruit grown primarily in Italy.
Earl Grey, the person, is Charles, 2nd Earl Grey—the figure for whom the tea is named. If you’re curious about the title itself, you can learn more in this explanation of the British peerage title of Earl and its historical role. There are also several competing accounts of how the tea came to bear his name; for an overview, see this history of Earl Grey tea and its possible origins.
Howick Hall Gardens – Take a tour and then have a spot of tea in the tea house
What many tea enthusiasts may not realize is that visitors to Northumberland, England can enjoy Earl Grey tea at the very location associated with the Grey family. Howick Hall, the ancestral seat of the Earls Grey since 1319, is now open to the public as Howick Hall Gardens.
The property includes the Earl Grey Tea House located within Howick Hall Gardens, along with a variety of other attractions.
The tea house itself is a relatively recent addition, having opened in 2004. Since then, operations have been managed by different groups, offering visitors a selection of teas, locally sourced foods, snacks, and light meals. It is important to note that the tea house is open only to visitors of the gardens.
While on the subject of Earl Grey, it is also worth recalling the well-publicized reaction to changes made to the formulation of a popular Earl Grey blend by Twinings. The response from consumers was significant enough that the company ultimately continued offering both the revised version and a “Classic” edition.
For more on that episode, see this account of the Twinings Earl Grey controversy and consumer response.
© Online Stores, Inc., and The English Tea Store Blog. Unauthorized use is prohibited. Excerpts allowed with proper credit.
Tea Blog 
Leave a comment