Sip Earl Grey where it was created: Howick Hall

Splendid Howick Hall was once home to Lord Grey, British Prime Minister from 1830 to 1834. It’s also the birthplace of the famous Earl Grey tea blend, which was concocted especially for the earl here. Bergamot, which gives Earl Grey tea its distinctive taste, was used to offset the taste of lime in the water from Howick Hall’s well.

So there’s no better location in the world to enjoy a pot of Earl Grey than Howick Hall’s Tea House. After quenching your thirst, and perhaps nibbling a homemade cake, explore the gardens. Created by Charles, 5th Earl Grey, with his wife and daughter, the gardens have an informal and natural style and are delightful in any season.

Howick Hall is in Alnwick, in northeast England, 35 miles (56km) from Newcastle. Trains run from London to Alnmouth, 4 miles (6.5km) from Alnwick, in 3 hours 40 minutes.

Content provided by Northumberland Tourism