There’s something undeniably charming about pairing a hot cup of tea with a good British television show. When you see the characters on screen enjoying a cuppa, it’s hard to resist savoring one of your own. I love the cozy ambiance, slower pacing, and endearing characters that are staples of British shows. Holding a warm mug in your hands and feeling the heat radiate through your body while inhaling the delicious aroma of tea definitely enhances the overall viewing experience.

I have a few beloved British shows that I enjoy revisiting, always with a freshly brewed cup of tea at the ready. Recently, after devouring the latest season of The Great British Bake Off followed by a cozy binge of Downton Abbey, I decided that certain teas in my collection complement these series perfectly. Now every time I hear the opening theme, I find myself craving the corresponding tea! I realized there are a few other special shows that evoke an association with a tea. I thought it would be fun to share my pairings. Now, if you feel like enjoying the cozy combo of tea and British TV, you have some inspiration!

The Great British Bake Off (2010- )

Also known as The Great British Baking Show, this is the coziest competition series with charming music, quaint countryside, and delicious baking. When I watch the intro and I see that final raspberry placed on the delicious chocolate cake, I love to have a fresh cup of tea in hand to enjoy with the episode. (Especially when the contestants and judges enjoy their own cups of tea throughout!)

Pairs well with: The Tea House Private Reserve

The Tea House Private Reserve by The Tea House on Los Rios is a black tea blend of Ceylon tea, vanilla, and grenadine. The aroma is scrumptious, and smelling this tea makes me immediately crave warm scones with jam. I remember watching the GGBS opening and seeing the freshly baked scones with strawberries and cream, made me think this tea would be lovely to drink with that show! (And now I always enjoy the two together) This tea is full-bodied and I think the the notes of vanilla and grenadine are enhanced with a small splash of milk. For me it is an ideal “tea-time” tea.

Why I watch it…

Contestants sipping tea, judges sipping tea, hosts sipping tea—what more could you ask for? The Great British Bake Off is my ultimate feel-good show. With its uplifting music, the cozy visuals of the English countryside (rainy day episodes are the best), and the iconic baking tent, it’s a warm escape. The contestants seem genuine and have such lovely personalities. The judges, though tough at times, are always kind and encouraging. And the biggest drama for this reality TV show? Someone dropping their cake or, heaven forbid, a soggy bottom! The opening montage always leaves me craving a cup of tea. When a new series starts, I eagerly anticipate a new episode each week, and when it’s time, I grab my cup of tea, snuggle up, and settle in for a delightful, cozy hour of television.

Downton Abbey (2010-2015)

This show has one of my favorite television series title sequences. The first notes of the piano of the opening theme immediately release cozy endorphins and I am transported to an era where tea time is steeped in tradition. The soft lighting, the sound of tea being poured, and the sweeping shots of the estate all create a warm, cozy environment that feels perfect for sipping tea.

Pairs well with: Earl Grey Creme Tea

An organic black tea from Art of Tea that is a must for Earl Grey lovers. Balanced well with bergamot and French vanilla for a creamy, rich, and robust flavor. I love a good Earl Grey with uplifting citrus notes in the aroma. This tea feels refined and decadent, perfect for an elegant sipping experience to pair with Downton Abbey. Immerse yourself in a leisurely viewing experience that has you savoring the cinematography and character drama along with your cup of tea.

Why I watch it…