Throughout history there has been an association between royalty, lifestyle and tea. For example teas fate in Britain took a turn in 1662 when King Charles II married the Portuguese princess, Catherine of Braganza. Britain's new queen was a confirmed tea drinker long before she arrived for her wedding and she brought with her, as part of her dowry, a chest of China tea. She started serving it to her aristocratic friends at Court and as word of the new beverage spread, more and more people wished to try it for themselves.

Ladies enjoyed tea at home, while gentlemen often drank their tea in the coffee houses that had become established in the City of London. Tea consumption progressed further and it became very fashionable in London to have afternoon tea. At these gatherings dainty sandwiches and delicate cakes were served.