Ringtons Tea is a historic British tea brand founded in 1907, known for its high-quality black tea blends, ethical sourcing, and iconic doorstep delivery service.
Loved for its rich flavor, fresh loose-leaf options, and traditional craftsmanship, Ringtons remains a household favorite for tea drinkers seeking authentic, premium brews.
When you think of classic British tea culture, Ringtons Tea is one of the first names that comes to mind. Known for its unmistakable flavor, rich heritage, and the beloved doorstep delivery service that has become a tradition for generations, Ringtons stands at the intersection of history and quality.
With over a century of experience, this family-owned company continues to deliver fresh, expertly blended teas straight to homes—maintaining a legacy that has earned unwavering loyalty from tea lovers worldwide.
This blog explores the origins, flavor profiles, blends, quality standards, sourcing practices, and what truly makes Ringtons Tea different from modern mainstream brands.
What Is Ringtons Tea?
Ringtons Tea is a premium tea brand established in Newcastle upon Tyne, England in 1907. Founded by Samuel Smith, the company started with just a horse and cart, delivering fresh tea directly to people’s homes. Today, Ringtons remains a family business known for:
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Fresh tea blends
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Classic black teas
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Ethical sourcing and quality control
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A unique doorstep delivery service
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Beautiful tea gifts, biscuits, and hampers
The combination of tradition and consistency is what sets Ringtons apart in the world of tea brands.
History of Ringtons Tea:
Founded in 1907
Ringtons began in Heaton, Newcastle, and grew steadily as families relied on the brand for fresh, dependable tea during a time when quality was inconsistent across the market.
Family-Owned Legacy
The company is still run by the Smith family—now in the fourth generation—retaining its small-business charm despite expanding across the UK.
The Iconic Doorstep Delivery
Ringtons is one of the few remaining companies that still maintains traditional doorstep delivery, allowing customers to receive tea and biscuits delivered by their local Ringtons representative.
Packaging Heritage
Their gold-foil packaged tea bags and classic loose-leaf tins highlight a branding identity that blends nostalgia with premium presentation.
What Makes Ringtons Tea Special?
1. High-Quality Tea Leaf Selection
Ringtons sources its tea leaves from renowned tea-growing regions such as:
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Assam, India
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Kenya
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Sri Lanka (Ceylon)
These regions are known for producing rich, bold, aromatic leaves that deliver strong flavor and color.
2. Expert Tea Blending
Ringtons has its own Tea Tasting & Blending Department, where experienced tea blenders with decades of expertise craft precise flavor profiles.
3. Freshness Guarantee
Unlike mass-market brands sitting on store shelves for months, Ringtons tea is packed fresh and delivered directly to customers.
4. Ethical Sourcing
The brand participates in responsible trade and has partnerships with sustainable tea estates to ensure fair treatment of workers.
Popular Ringtons:
1. Ringtons Gold Tea
A smooth, premium black tea blend with a bright, golden liquor. Many consider it the brand’s flagship product, known for rich aroma and balance.
2. Ringtons Breakfast Tea
A strong, full-bodied morning blend featuring Assam and Kenyan teas, designed to energize and offer a classic British breakfast cup.
3. Ringtons Kenyan Gold
A brisk, lively tea offering strong color and flavor. Perfect for those who love robust black tea.
4. Ringtons Earl Grey
A fragrant blend infused with bergamot oil, offering floral, citrusy notes.
5. Loose Leaf Teas
Ringtons produces loose-leaf black teas, green teas, and herbal infusions for customers who prefer a more artisanal brewing experience.
6. Ringtons Herbal Infusions
Herbal blends include:
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Peppermint tea
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Chamomile tea
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Lemon & Ginger
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Rooibos blends
These caffeine-free options provide soothing, natural wellness support.
Flavor Profile: What Does Ringtons Tea Taste Like?
Ringtons is loved for its:
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Smooth, mellow flavor
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Strong brewing color
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Low bitterness
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Satisfying body and aroma
Most blends are crafted to be easy-drinking, making them ideal for milk tea (a British staple) or enjoyed plain.
Is Ringtons Tea Good for Health? (Evidence-Based Insights)
1. Rich in Antioxidants
Black tea blends contain polyphenols that may:
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Reduce oxidative stress
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Support heart health
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Improve immunity
According to Harvard School of Public Health, black tea contains antioxidants linked to improved cardiovascular markers.
2. Can Support Digestion
Many Ringtons teas (especially herbal blends) support healthy digestion.
According to Cleveland Clinic, herbal teas like peppermint and ginger may help reduce nausea and aid stomach health.
3. Moderate Caffeine Levels
Ringtons black tea provides gentle stimulation without the jittery effects of coffee.
According to Mayo Clinic, black tea typically contains 40–70 mg caffeine per cup, enough for alertness without overstimulation.
4. Hydration Support
Tea contributes to daily fluid intake, helping maintain hydration levels.
Ringtons vs Other UK Tea Brands:
Ringtons vs PG Tips
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Ringtons offers fresher, more premium blends.
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PG Tips is mass-produced and shelf-stored.
Ringtons vs Twinings
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Twinings has global distribution and a wide range of teas.
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Ringtons is more focused on quality, tradition, and direct delivery.
Ringtons vs Yorkshire Tea
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Yorkshire is bold and strong;
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Ringtons is smoother and often more balanced.
Doorstep Delivery: A Tradition That Still Lives
Ringtons’ doorstep delivery remains one of the brand’s strongest selling points. Customers appreciate:
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Personalized service
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Fresh product delivery
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Consistent availability
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Support for local Ringtons representatives
This service adds charm and strengthens customer loyalty.
Where to Buy Ringtons Tea:
You can purchase Ringtons:
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Via doorstep delivery (UK regions)
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Online from the official Ringtons store
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Through selected retailers
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In curated tea gift boxes and hampers
International shipping is also available in many regions.
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High-Authority References Mentioned:
These references are paraphrased as per your requirement:
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According to Harvard School of Public Health, black tea antioxidants are linked to improved heart health.
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According to the Cleveland Clinic, herbal teas like peppermint and ginger support digestion and reduce nausea.
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According to the Mayo Clinic, typical caffeine levels in black tea range from 40–70 mg per cup, offering moderate stimulation.
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According to the UK Tea & Infusions Association, tea remains one of the most widely consumed beverages in the UK, highlighting demand for quality brands such as Ringtons.