Twinings Flagship Store at 216 Strand, London
Discover the world’s oldest tea shop at 216 Strand, London, where over 300 years of tea heritage meets immersive tasting experiences.
Nestled in the heart of London’s Strand, the Twinings Flagship Store at 216 Strand is the world’s oldest tea shop, operating continuously since 1706. This historic shop, adorned with its iconic golden lion and Chinese figures, offers visitors a unique blend of rich tea heritage and contemporary tea culture, including a premium loose leaf tea sampling bar and a small museum showcasing over 300 years of Twinings’ history.
A brief summary to Twinings - The Strand
- 216 Strand, London, Temple, WC2R 1AP, GB
- +442073533511
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-6 pm
- Thursday 11:30 am-6:30 pm
- Friday 11 am-6 pm
- Saturday 11 am-6 pm
- Sunday 11 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit the premium loose leaf tea sampling bar to taste a variety of teas selected by expert Brand Ambassadors.
- Explore the adjacent Twinings Museum to learn about the company’s 300-year history and its Royal Warrant.
- Look for the iconic golden lion and Chinese figures above the entrance, symbols of the shop’s heritage.
- Consider joining one of the on-site or virtual tea masterclasses for a deeper appreciation of tea culture.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Twinings - The Strand location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Twinings - The Strand
A Legacy Rooted in London’s Tea Culture
The Twinings Flagship Store at 216 Strand stands as a remarkable testament to over three centuries of British tea history. Founded in 1706 by Thomas Twining, the shop began as Tom’s Coffee House, a popular meeting place for London’s elite. Recognizing tea’s rising popularity, Twining shifted focus to dry tea sales, establishing what is likely the world’s first dry tea and coffee shop by 1717. This move not only distinguished the business but also made tea accessible to women who, at the time, could not enter coffee houses. The shop’s entrance, featuring a golden lion and two Chinese figures, symbolizes this rich heritage and the origins of tea itself.Historic Architecture and Iconic Signage
The shop’s façade, commissioned in 1787 by Richard Twining, Thomas’s grandson, remains largely unchanged. The golden lion lying down represents respect to the founder, while the Chinese figures pay homage to tea’s roots in China. This classical door case is one of the oldest commercial logos in continuous use in the UK, reflecting Twinings’ enduring presence. Despite its narrow frontage, the interior extends deep into the building, offering an aromatic journey through aisles lined with teas from around the world.Immersive Tea Experiences and Offerings
Visitors to the store can explore a premium loose leaf tea sampling bar, where expert Brand Ambassadors guide guests through a curated selection of teas and infusions. This interactive experience invites guests to smell, taste, and learn about different varieties, enhancing appreciation for the craft of tea blending. Alongside the tea bar, the shop offers a wide range of tea accessories and gifts, as well as on-site and virtual masterclasses that deepen visitors’ understanding of tea culture.The Adjacent Twinings Museum
Adjacent to the shop is the Twinings Museum, a small but fascinating space that chronicles the company’s evolution from a single coffee house to a global tea brand. The museum displays historic artefacts, documents, and memorabilia, including the Royal Warrant granted by Queen Victoria in 1837, which marks Twinings as a supplier to the British Royal Family. This museum enriches the visit, providing context and stories behind the iconic brand.A Cultural and Historic Landmark on the Strand
Situated opposite the neo-Gothic Royal Courts of Justice, the Twinings shop occupies a unique position in London’s urban fabric. The Strand was once home to aristocracy relocating after the Great Fire of London, and Twinings thrived by catering to this affluent clientele. Today, it remains a beloved destination for tea enthusiasts and history lovers alike, offering a glimpse into London’s social and commercial past through the lens of tea.Continuity and Global Influence
Twinings has continuously operated from this location for over 300 years, making it one of the oldest shops in London still in its original premises. The company’s influence extends worldwide, with historical records showing exports to America as early as 1749. The shop at 216 Strand remains a symbol of British tea culture, blending tradition with modern tea appreciation in a historic yet vibrant setting.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St Clement Danes Church
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Hare Pl
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King's Reach commemoration memorial
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3 Gunpowder Square
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Strand
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Victoria Embankment
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Waterloo Bridge
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Ludgate Circus
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South Bank Community Area
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Bow St
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Richard D’Oyly Carte Monument
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Royal Opera House
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Unmissable attractions to see
Temple Bar Memorial
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Middle Temple Venue Hire
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Temple Church
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Two Temple Place
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The Seven Stars
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The Honourable Society of the Middle Temple
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St Dunstan-in-the-West
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Discover St Dunstan-in-the-West, a neo-Gothic marvel on Fleet Street with a rich history spanning over a millennium and unique octagonal design.
Hidden London - Aldwych Station
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Step into London’s hidden past with exclusive tours of Aldwych Station, a disused Tube shelter rich in history and wartime stories.
National Trust - Strand Lane "Roman Bath"
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Discover London’s hidden Tudor-era cold bath beneath the Strand, where myth and history intertwine in a unique urban relic.
Temple Station
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Step into history at Temple Station, a Victorian-era gateway to London’s medieval Knights Templar district and legal heritage.
The Maughan Library
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Explore London's grand neo-Gothic Maughan Library, a historic fireproof archive turned vibrant university research hub at King's College London.
King's College London
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King's College Chapel
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Explore the breathtaking beauty and rich history of King's College Chapel, a must-visit Gothic masterpiece in the heart of London.
Monument Queen Victoria
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Essential places to dine
Ikoyi Restaurant
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Sarastro
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Cicchetti by San Carlo - London Covent Garden
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Balthazar
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Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
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Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Margot
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Sea Containers Restaurant
0.7 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
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Chez Antoinette
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Punch & Judy
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Inamo Covent Garden
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Wahaca Southbank
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Hoa Sen Vietnamese Street Food Restaurant
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Rules
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Cora Pearl Covent Garden
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Twinings - The Strand
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Discover over 300 years of tea heritage at London’s oldest tea shop, featuring historic charm, premium tastings, and a unique museum experience.
The Store X
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not just a shop
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London Transport Museum - Shop
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Discover unique transport-themed gifts and iconic London memorabilia at the London Transport Museum Shop in Covent Garden.
Sugar And Style
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Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
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Dive into a world of whimsical designs and unique finds at this South Bank gem, where global brands meet emerging talents in the heart of Oxo Tower Wharf.
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
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Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
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Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
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The Moomin Shop London
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Doggett's Coat and Badge
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Carwash Nightclub
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Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
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Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
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The Roxy
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Heaven
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The Ivy Club
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Zoo Bar & Club
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The Boat Show Comedy Club
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Cirque Du Soul
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The Penthouse London
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STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
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Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly