Tales of the Teapot

The History

There is no one traditional image of the teapot. Its history is long and sometimes a little muddled: it certainly originated in China over 5000 years ago and oriental style teapots tend to be slightly smaller, individual sizes, compared to their English counterparts. Teapots came into existence in the UK around the 16th century.

Today, teapots come in many styles and sizes. Which teapot to choose? Large teapots for gatherings of family and friends, of course. Small teapots for those private moments, curled up with a book or a best friend. Teapots with infusers, or teapots without? Floral, traditional or modern designs? Funky and fun? Or gold plated antiques? Which material to choose? Glass or ceramic, fine bone china or simply clay… wow, what an array!

Size of Pot

Choosing the right teapot depends on how you like your tea, whether it's a quiet solo ritual or a moment shared with friends.

Teapots are typically measured in teacups, and not mugs, which are actually smaller. So, if you're using mugs you'll want a larger teapot.

A two-cup teapot is ideal for a generous brew for one, or two cups back-to-back. If you're hosting, you'll probably want a four-cup or six-cup teapot to help keep the tea flowing!

Loose Leaf Tea Lovers

The right teapot can really elevate the loose leaf tea experience. Choose a teapot with a built-in infuser or even a removable filter, this will give plenty of space for the tea leaves to unfurl, as well as keeping the pour smooth and clean.

Glass teapots can add a bit of extra theatre to brewing loose leaf tea, as you watch the leaves move and the colour change.

Whatever loose leaf tea blend you choose, a teapot creates more of a ceremony to your tea experience.

Tea for One

Make more of your cup of tea with a teapot for one.

There’s something quietly joyful about brewing tea just for you, a simple ritual that invites you to press pause. In the rush of the everyday, it’s easy to overlook those solo moments. But a single-cup teapot or a teapot-and-cup set transforms an ordinary brew into something more intentional. Choose a blend that matches your mood, something bold to energise, floral to soothe, or caffeine-free to help you unwind. However you brew it, a solo cup of tea is never just a cup. It’s a small act of care, just for you.

Matching Teaware

For some, it’s all about the mix and match, collected cups, vintage milk jugs, and saucers with stories. For others, it’s the quiet satisfaction of having the full set: a matching teapot, cups and saucers, perhaps even a milk jug or cake plates to complete the look. Creating a moment that feels considered.

Everyday tea becomes something a little more special, not just for guests or big occasions, but for the quiet rituals too. Because why wait to bring out the ‘good’ set? Whether it’s a Monday morning or a slow Sunday afternoon, a beautifully brewed pot deserves to be served in style.