English Breakfast Tea – why we love this iconic drink
For centuries, English Breakfast Tea has been the UK’s go-to morning tea. It’s bold, rich, and energising – a proper start to the day.
But beyond the ritual of a morning cuppa, have you ever wondered what’s the story behind this tea? How it’s made? How much caffeine it contains? And, why we started drinking it in the first place?
Let’s dive in.
What is English Breakfast Tea?
Let’s start with the basics. English Breakfast Tea is a strong, full-bodied black tea blend, typically made from a mix of Assam and Ceylon black tea from India and Kenyan tea leaves.
Some blends, like ours at Hampstead Tea, use premium single-origin tea leaves. This gives it the tea a richer, fresher, and naturally smooth taste. English Breakfast Tea is pure, kicking flavour – malty, slightly sweet, and robust enough to handle milk.
The history of English Breakfast Tea
You’ll find a few theories as to the origins of English Breakfast Tea, but most agree that the trend started in the 19th century.
One theory credits Scottish tea master Robert Drysdale, who blended strong black teas to create a bold morning brew. Other historians believe Queen Victoria made it popular after trying a robust tea blend on a visit to Scotland.
Over time, English Breakfast Tea has become a staple in British culture, valued for its rich taste, energising properties, and perfect pairing with milk and sugar.
Despite the fact that England usually doesn’t grow tea (although there is a tea garden in Dartmoor and Cornwall), this drink has perhaps become England’s most famous drink worldwide.
Loose Leaf vs. English Breakfast Tea Bags – which is better?
This depends partly on your preference. Generally, whole leaf loose leaf teas have a more complex flavour and tea bags usually have more bitter strength as they’re often made with dust.
Why? Well, no one said that we drink high quality tea for English Breakfast. In fact, it’s often the dust of leaves that have been finely chopped to create an intense oxidation. This means that lots of bitter flavour brews right away when hot water hits the tea bag. It’s a flavour that we Brits know and love.
Loose Leaf English Breakfast Tea is made by rolling the leaves. This brings the oils to the surface of the leaf and releases a more complex flavour when they slowly unfurl in your tea pot or strainer.
English Breakfast Tea vs Earl Grey – what’s the difference?
If English Breakfast Tea is the steady, no-nonsense best friend you rely on every morning, Earl Grey is the elegant, slightly mysterious one who smells amazing.
The key difference?
Earl Grey is flavoured with bergamot oil, giving it a floral, citrusy lift. If you love a hearty, malty tea that pairs perfectly with milk, English Breakfast Tea wins every time.
If you like a lighter, aromatic cup, Earl Grey is your go-to.
How much caffeine is in English Breakfast Tea?
Caffeine lovers, rejoice! English Breakfast Tea contains around 40-70mg of caffeine per cup, depending on brewing time and tea quality. Compared to coffee, which packs 95mg or more per cup, it gives you a steady energy boost without the jitters or crash. If you’re looking to cut down on coffee but still need a morning lift, English Breakfast Tea is the perfect alternative.
The ethics of English Breakfast Tea – what you should know
While English Breakfast Tea is a beloved staple, not all teas are created equal. The mass-market tea industry has long been associated with unethical labor practices, poor wages, and environmental damage. Large tea plantations often rely on low-paid workers who face harsh working conditions. Many conventional teas are also grown using chemical pesticides and synthetic fertilizers, harming both workers and the environment.
At Hampstead Tea, we believe in a better way. Our teas are sourced from biodynamic, organic-certified gardens, ensuring that workers are treated fairly and no harmful chemicals touch our leaves or the land. By choosing organic, ethically sourced tea, you’re not just getting better flavour—you’re supporting a more sustainable, fair tea industry.
The Benefits of drinking English Breakfast Tea
Drinking English Breakfast Tea isn’t just about tradition—it’s packed with real health benefits. Here’s why you should be drinking it every day:
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Rich in Antioxidants – Black tea is packed with polyphenols, which fight free radicals and support cell health.
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Supports Heart Health – Studies show that regular black tea drinkers have lower cholesterol and improved heart health.
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Boosts Focus & Alertness – Thanks to L-theanine, English Breakfast Tea provides a calm, focused energy instead of coffee’s sharp spike.
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Aids Digestion – Its natural tannins can help settle your stomach after meals.
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Low-Calorie & Natural – Unlike sugary energy drinks, black tea is pure, simple, and naturally calorie-free.
How to brew the perfect cup of English Breakfast Tea
Brewing the perfect cup of tea is an art—but don’t worry, it’s easy. Here’s how:
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Choose fresh tea – Opt for loose leaf or full-bodied English Breakfast Tea bags direct from farms.
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Heat Water to 90-95°C – Boiling water can scorch the leaves, so let it cool slightly before pouring.
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Steep for 3-5 Minutes – depending on how strong you like it
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Add Milk (or Not!) – Traditionalists take it with a splash of milk, but it’s just as bold without.
Where to buy the best English Breakfast Tea
Not all tea is created equal. If you want fresh, organic, full-flavoured tea, skip the supermarket dust and go for a brand that values quality. Hampstead Tea’s English Breakfast Tea is biodynamic, organic, and packed with flavour—available in plastic-free tea bags or premium loose leaf.
Ready to taste how good English Breakfast can be?
English Breakfast tea is iconic in the world of black tea. Try it for yourself and experience what real tea should taste like.
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