The quintessentially British drink of tea is being celebrated at one of Norwich's most historic venues.
Norwich Cathedral will host a special festival next month dedicated to what is perhaps our nation's favourite beverage, and one that has been at the heart of life in our country for years.
Whether you like your cuppa with milk or one lump of sugar or two, everyone is invited to join in with the festivities that will celebrate the origins and evolving flavours of this great British institution.
One of the highlights of the festival will be the chance to enjoy the tradition of afternoon tea in the beautiful surroundings of the cathedral cloister.
Jon Holland, marketing manager at Norwich Cathedral, is organising the month-long event with the cathedral's hospitality and catering team leader Simon Abel, and he said they were inspired to hold the festival by the overwhelming popularity of tea at the cathedral.
'We decided to hold the festival because tea is always the number one drink in the refectory,' Mr Holland said.
'We hope lots of people will join in with the festival, and come along and drink tea.
'There will be lots of different teas for people to try throughout the month and it will be quite a special occasion having afternoon tea in the cathedral cloister.'
He said three events were already organised for the festival with other events also being planned.
Afternoon tea will be served in the cloister from 3pm on Saturday, August 24.
Meanwhile on Friday, August 16 people will also be able to enjoy a cream tea after a talk at 2.30pm on the Twining Teapot Gallery at Norwich Castle by manager Dr Francesca Vanke.
The vast collection includes more than 3,000 teapots which date from the 1730s.
Also during the festival, there will be a Bluegrass Music Night on Friday, August 30 where people can join the Broad Cut Drifters for an evening of acoustic, bluegrass, folk and Americana acoustic music.
A number of tea providers are also involved in the festival and the Teapigs brand will be on special offer throughout the month in the cathedral's restaurant and coffee shop.
Visitors will be able to choose from a wide range of teas, with people being able to enjoy a brew of old favourites such as English breakfast or Earl Grey, or be more adventures and try an array of unusual flavours which include everything from popcorn tea to chilli tea.
n Talk on Norwich Castle's Twining Teapot Gallery and cream tea – Friday, August 16 at 2.30pm. Tickets £4.
n Afternoon Tea in the Cloister – Saturday, August 24 from 3pm. Tickets £16.
n Bluegrass Music Night – Friday, August 30 from 7pm to 11pm. Tickets £4.50.
n Booking for events is essential. To book call 01603 218322, email refectory@cathedral.org.uk or visit the Refectory.
n For more about the festival, and details about other events when they are announced, visit www.cathedral.org.uk/teafestival
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