The History of British Tea Rooms: A Timeless Tradition of Elegance and Enjoyment

The tradition of British tea rooms dates back to the 18th century, when tea drinking began to flourish across the British Isles. Initially considered a luxury indulgence for the aristocracy, tea quickly became a symbol of sophistication and refinement—eventually evolving into a beloved national ritual.

By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the idea of tea dwindled. This period saw the rise of public tea rooms, especially in urban centers like London, Bath, and Edinburgh. One of the most notable pioneers was Lyons Tea Rooms, established in 1894, which offered an elegant yet affordable place for women to socialize in public without a chaperone—revolutionary at the time.

Afternoon Tea: A Social Revolution

The concept of the Afternoon Tea is attributed to Anna, the 7th Duchess of Bedford, in the early 1840s. At the time, it was customary to eat only two main meals a day: breakfast and a late evening dinner. Feeling peckish in the afternoon, the Duchess began requesting a light snack—bread, butter, and tea—served privately in her boudoir. Soon, she began inviting friends to join her, and the idea of afternoon tea quickly gained popularity among high society women. This light and elegant refreshment eventually transformed into a social event, complete with fine china, finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, delicate pastries, and of course, a selection of the finest teas sourced from across the British Empire—including Ceylon, India, China, and Africa.

The Golden Tea Pot Tea Room

The Golden Teapot Tearoom originally opened in 2009 in an established Brantford gift boutique. With a loyal and strong following, they outgrew the space and relocated to Glenhyrst Art Gallery’s cozy and sun-filled solarium, surrounded by the most beautiful gardens in Brantford. It was a match made in heaven. Since then, the Golden Teapot has carved its place in a unique industry that values experiences, time well spent, a taste of luxury, and the royal treatment. The tearoom has won several awards and is a favoured and treasured spot for residents of Brantford, the surrounding areas, and tea lovers from far away lands.

The Golden Teapot is owned and operated by Brian and Linda Pickering, life-long residents of Brantford with a flair for entrepreneurship. Passionate about the art of High Tea, Linda and Brian have focused their energy and expertise into sharing that experience with others. Their tearoom is a true reflection of their hearts of gold and a labour of love.

Where Timeless Tradition Meets Refined Tea Artistry

This fall, we’re proud to unveil a one-of-a-kind collaboration between Basilur Tea and Ontario’s celebrated Golden Teapot Tea Room. Together, we invite you into a world where storytelling, flavour, and elegance converge—athoughtfully curated experience for tea lovers across Canada.  At Basilur, tea is more than a beverage. It is ritual. It is heritage. It is artistry.

Savour the story. Sip with intention.

Welcome to a curated tea experience at The Golden Teapot. We are proud to serve you Basilur Tea—a brand steeped in heritage, craftsmanship, andbeauty. This exclusive partnership brings together our shared passion for elegance, warmth,and the art of hospitality. From the lush tea gardens of Sri Lanka to your teacup, every blend is crafted to delight the senses and honour the moment. Savour the story. Sip with intention. “Tea is the silent music of hospitality.”

Scan the QR code above to reserve your table and enjoy a variety of teas to savour all year round. Explore the exclusive Basilur Tea collection and take home a taste of heritage.

Now, as The Golden Tea Pot welcomes Basilur Tea into its storied tea room, we invite guests to rediscover the joy of Afternoon Tea—elevated by the world's finest teas. Whether it’s a festive holiday infusion, a bold single-estate black, or a delicately scented green, each Basilur blend is an invitation to pause, reflect, and celebrate. Together, The Golden Tea Pot and Basilur Tea are reimagining what it means to share tea. It’s more than a drink—it’s a moment of magic. Kindly scan the QR code above for reservations. 

A Perfect Blend

Both Basilur and The Golden Teapot are guided by a love of excellence and intentionality. We bring single-origin, award-winning Ceylon tea—grown, crafted, and packed at origin in Sri Lanka. They offer a refined, immersive tea-room experience, where hospitality and heritage meet. Together, we craft moments that invite guests to slow down, connect, and savour.

A Perfect Pour

This partnership opens the door to a new era of tea appreciation. Enjoy premium Basilur teas served in-house at The Golden Teapot. Discover seasonal tasting flights and luxury gift sets for every occasion whether you're visiting the Tea Room or exploring from home, our shared vision brings the world of Ceylon tea to your fingertips.