Twinings At The Strand ... A Little Gem In the Heart Of London

There are two interesting facts about the Twining's shop that can be found at 216, The Strand. Firstly, the shop has been there since 1706 (hence the 1706 blend!) and is the longest rate payer on The Strand. Secondly, it's also one of the smallest shop's in London. It's absolutely tiny. But beautifully formed.

Whenever I go to visit my mum, who lives near to London, it's the first place I request to go. It's not just about buying tea (which you can buy in most places), it's the experience. There is nothing that is as much fun as browsing the shelves. You can see the exotic blends, the day to day blends, and if your a coffee lover you can even buy coffee.

I often go when the shop first opens, and it's always full. Tourists often go to buy the tea, and to try the tea at the tea tasting bar. There can be a bit of pushing and shoving as you try to make your way up the aisle, but the jostling is fun, and it's a sign that the shop is thriving. Customers tend to have one or two baskets that are bursting at the seems.

Alongside all the different teas, you can buy teaware, such as tea pots, cup and saucers and mugs. I also like the pick and mix bar where you can buy tea in single envelopes, costing as little as 30p each. It's a brilliant chance to try new teas without having to buy a whole box (in case you don't like it).

But what also makes the experience so nice are the staff. They are so friendly, genuinely interested in your purchases and what you like about them. If you don't see a blend that you want to buy, there will always be someone who is willing to look for it elsewhere in the building. Nothing is too much trouble, and you won't ever experience a surly member of staff there.

If your ever visiting London, then the Twinings store is a must to visit. You will thoroughly enjoy it there. And I'm pretty certain that you won't be able to resist buying something nice there!