Tea Blog

[Editor’s note: Bill and I both ended up writing on the same topic but from different perspectives. See

this companion article on tea and the Diamond Jubilee celebration
,
so we’re making this Diamond Jubilee Day on The English Tea Store Blog. Enjoy!]

Say what you will about royalty, but it certainly comes with a degree of job security. Political upheaval aside, most royals effectively hold their positions for life unless they choose to step down.

At more than 60 years on the throne, Queen Elizabeth II ranks among the longest-reigning British monarchs. Only Queen Victoria surpasses her, with a reign exceeding 63 years, while the global record is held by King Sobhuza II of Swaziland.

The 60-year milestone is marked by the Diamond Jubilee, a major national celebration that extends beyond the central weekend festivities.

For full details about the event and its scope, visit

the official Diamond Jubilee website with information on events, history, and celebrations
.

As expected, tea plays a prominent role in the festivities. Established British tea company

Twinings tea brand known for its long association with British tea culture

released a commemorative blend. More information is available in

this description of the Twinings Diamond Jubilee tea blend and its inspiration
.

Official merchandise also reflects the scale of the celebration. For example,

this selection of Diamond Jubilee tea-related items from the Royal Collection Shop

includes teapots, tea caddies, and other commemorative goods.

The English Tea Store also offered themed items such as the Diamond Jubilee tea cozy shown above. You can follow availability at

this product page for the Diamond Jubilee crown tea cozy
.

Some tea merchants took things even further. For instance,

this report on the Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon at Fortnum & Mason

explores how retailers created immersive themed tea experiences.

On a lighter and more unusual note,

this humorous news story about a monkey-invaded Diamond Jubilee tea party

offers a very different take on the celebrations.

Tea products, however, represent just a fraction of the merchandise created for the occasion. For a broader overview, see

this report on the wide range of Diamond Jubilee souvenirs and commercial products
,
which illustrates the scale of interest in the event.

As for me, I’m off to see if I can track down one of those Prince Philip garden gnomes.

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