About

Within a simple cup of tea lies a history of taste, trade and empire. ‘At the Tea Table: The Making of a National Drink’ explores how tea, once a rare and costly import from Asia, became woven into the fabric of British life. Presenting extraordinary objects from the Chitra Collection, this pop-up exhibition reveals the complex trade networks and imperial ambition that brought tea to Britain’s tables. Discover how a humble leaf transformed ceramic and silver design, inspiring centuries of innovative craftsmanship.

This Craft Week, we are delighted to welcome visitors to explore the exhibition through two exclusive events, featuring expert talks, curator-led tours, and tea tastings set at the historic Bank of England Museum.

On Tuesday visitors are invited to a special in-conversation event with Richard Coulton and Matthew Mauger, authors of ‘Empire of Tea: The Asian Leaf that Conquered the World’. Together, they will explore tea’s extraordinary journey from Asia to the heart of British culture. The afternoon continues with a guided tour of the exhibition by the curator of Chitra Collection and concludes with an exclusive tea tasting led by Newby Teas’ expert Tea Sommelier, guiding guests through a selection of expertly sourced teas.

On Friday, guests are invited to attend a curator talk, followed by a guided tour of the exhibition led by the curator of the Chitra Collection. The experience then concludes with a thoughftully curated tea tasting.

About the Partners:

The Chitra Collection, owned by the N. Sethia Foundation, is an extraordinary private museum of historic teawares. Newby Teas, also owned by the Foundation, is a London-based luxury brand dedicated to sourcing the world’s finest teas, with all profits supporting charitable causes.

The Bank of England Museum is home to a diverse collection exploring the Bank and UK economy from its foundation in 1694 to the present day, illuminating architecture, craft, currency and design. Open free of charge.

Opening Hours:

The exhibition runs from 5–29 May 2026. Open Monday to Friday, 10am–5pm (last entry 4.30pm), with late opening until 8pm every third Thursday. Closed weekends and Bank Holidays. Closed at 3pm on 29 May.