Tea remains the UK’s favourite hot drink, with over 100 million cups enjoyed every day.
As the UK celebrates National Tea Day on April 21st, it's clear that Britain's love affair with tea is as strong as ever—though the flavours are more diverse than before.
Alongside traditional English brews, teas from India are gaining a firm place in British cups. From the bold and spicy masala chai to the fragrant Darjeeling and robust Assam, Indian teas are increasingly being embraced for their rich flavours and cultural warmth.
In homes, cafés, and trendy tea bars across the country, masala tea in particular has become a comforting favourite, offering a blend of nostalgia, wellness, and a vibrant kick of spice.
This growing popularity is not just about taste, it's a reflection of the UK’s evolving tea culture and deepening connection with South Asian heritage.
Speaking to Asian Voice, Mira Manek—founder of chai brand ‘Chai by Mira’ and author of ‘The Book of Chai’ (https://www.miramanek.com/) emphasised that tea fosters cross-cultural connections. “Chai is more than just a drink, it’s an emotion, a moment to pause,” she said. “It’s a ritual that slows you down, warms the body with spices, awakens the senses, and evokes memories. For many Indians, chai is ‘home’, a link to family, tradition, and belonging. As I wrote ‘The Book of Chai’, I saw how this humble cup has travelled across borders, carrying stories of migration and identity. Whether sipped in busy Indian train stations or quiet kitchens abroad, chai becomes a shared language, one that sparks curiosity, storytelling, and connection across cultures.”
Mira also highlighted how Indian tea culture—particularly chai—has influenced Western café habits. “What was once unfamiliar is now a staple. Chai lattes are a regular feature on café and hotel menus across the West,” she said. “While interpretations vary, their popularity shows a growing appreciation for Indian flavours and spices. Interestingly, in the West, ‘chai’ often refers specifically to spiced tea, even without the actual tea!”
She noted that while café-made chai lattes often differ from traditional masala chai, especially in how they’re brewed, they serve as an introduction. “Brewing is essential to masala chai: the tea, spices, and sugar must blend fully. Many café versions are overly sweet or lack depth, but some brands are getting the balance right. Chai lattes are the invitation; homemade chai is the full conversation. And now, more cafés are recognising the demand for authentic, spiced blends, reflecting evolving customer tastes,” she added.
Pranav Chopra, founder of NEMI Teas, highlighted masala chai’s journey to becoming a global phenomenon and its growing popularity in the West. He said, “The exotic and aromatic spice blend, typically cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and black pepper, offers a distinctive flavour that stands out from traditional Western teas and coffees. The rise of the chai latte, popularised by chains like Starbucks, introduced a sweeter, milkier version tailored to Western tastes, making it an easy entry point. There's also growing interest in global cuisines and wellness trends, which has brought attention to the health benefits of chai spices, such as aiding digestion and providing antioxidants. And its versatility, whether as a warm, comforting drink in winter or a refreshing iced beverage in summer, has further expanded its appeal. The story of masala chai as a traditional, flavourful, and health-conscious drink has clearly played a role in its global success.”
On National Tea Day, Pranav reflected on the rich legacy and global appeal of Indian teas, highlighting the comforting warmth of Masala Chai and the refined elegance of Darjeeling. He said, “Masala Chai, with its blend of robust black tea and aromatic spices, embodies India's culinary heritage and its spirit of hospitality. Its transformation from a local brew to a global sensation speaks to its versatility and universal appeal. Darjeeling, known as the 'Champagne of Teas,' carries a colonial legacy. Its delicate, floral notes have captivated tea lovers worldwide, establishing India as a producer of high-quality, distinctive teas. Together, these teas represent the diversity and richness of India’s tea culture. As we celebrate National Tea Day in London, NEMI Teas honours this remarkable legacy and the ongoing allure of Indian teas, which continue to connect and warm hearts across the globe with every cup.”
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How to brew the perfect cup of tea
To celebrate National Tea Day in style, Katie Kippax, tea buyer at Yorkshire Tea—the UK’s favourite brew—has revealed her top tips for making the perfect cuppa. “Everyone has their own tea ritual, but there are a few golden rules,” she says. “If you want to impress the tea lovers around you, here’s how to make a proper brew, Yorkshire Tea-style.”
For the perfect brew, Yorkshire Tea’s Katie Kippax recommends starting with fresh water, as its oxygen content helps bring out the best flavour—so it should only be boiled once. She advises warming the mug or teapot beforehand to keep the temperature just right for steeping. The teabag should be left to brew for four to five minutes to allow the full flavour to develop. When removing the teabag, it should be gently squeezed only once, as over-squeezing can make the tea taste bitter. These simple steps, she says, make all the difference.
