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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.

4.6

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
  • Environment icon 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.
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Twinings - The Strand location weather suitability

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  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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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.

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