In March 2019, nestled in the rural landscapes of Lanarkshire, Scotland, an idea took root—literally and figuratively. My fascination with tea began long before, during my travels to the verdant plantations of China and Sri Lanka. The serenity of those places, where tea bushes stretched endlessly, inspired me to create a Tea Garden in Scotland. Despite the challenges of South Lanarkshire’s windy, exposed environment, I planted my first Camellia Sinensis bushes undercover. It was a leap of faith, fuelled by passion and curiosity, and to my delight, these delicate plants not only survived but thrived and by 2023, they bore fruit in the form of “The Angel’s Share,” a unique black tea that embodies the essence of this land. Growing tea bushes has had its failures along the way, I lost every bush at my first attempt at planting outside, but with perseverance and more knowledge I am now growing without cover which for us was the way forward regarding sustainability.
Cultivating Sustainability
The transformation of a grass pasture to a thriving Tea Garden and Tea House was a labour of love and sustainability. Every decision was guided by a commitment to the environment. The landscape, once just grass, now bursts with life thanks to the planting of 700 native trees and shrubs. In December 2021, a wildlife pond was established, reversing the loss of ponds in the Scottish countryside. This haven now teems with life—frogs, dragonflies, moorhens, and even the occasional heron—creating a small yet vibrant ecosystem.
The tea bushes were planted with care, nurtured organically. Around the wildlife pond, wildflowers are allowed to flourish, supporting local pollinators and adding to the biodiversity. My approach to land management blends ancient agroforestry practices with modern sustainability techniques, ensuring that the Tea Garden harmonizes with nature rather than competes with it.
Building with Purpose
The Tea House, completed in December 2022, is not just a building; it’s a testament to sustainable design. The Tea House is a model of energy efficiency. From the air-source heat pump that powers the underfloor heating to the triple-glazed windows that keep the warmth in, every detail reflects a commitment to reducing our carbon footprint. LED lighting illuminates the space, and water-saving fixtures like dual-flush toilets are standard. Inside, recycling facilities are readily available, and all products used are eco-friendly, with a strict no single-use plastic policy. Even the packaging for our tea is designed with the planet in mind—compostable materials that leave no trace.
From Field to Cup
The heart of my Green Story lies in the Tea Garden, where tea is cultivated, harvested, and processed by hand on-site. This “field to cup” experience is the cornerstone of what I offer at the Scottish Tea House. The tea, grown just 20 meters from where it’s served, captures the unique terroir of Lanarkshire, offering a flavour that is distinctively local. While some of my teas are sourced from China and India to complement my selection, I minimize the environmental impact by sourcing direct and limiting overseas orders.
The Tea House also champions local partnerships, sourcing ingredients from Lanarkshire Larder’s finest producers; our home-baking and afternoon tea menu reflects a commitment to local, fresh, and sustainable sourcing.
A Growing Legacy
Since planting those first tea bushes in 2018, the Scottish Tea House has grown into more than just a business—it’s a sanctuary. Visitors come not just for the tea, but for the peace, the tranquillity, and the connection to nature. Here, people can learn about tea, experience tea tastings, or simply enjoy an afternoon in the calm of the countryside. The journey from a grass pasture to a flourishing Tea Garden and Tea House has been one of dedication, very hard work, and a deep respect for the environment.
E-commerce
My e-commerce site is a vital part of my business, allowing me to share my tea with customers far and wide. As I strive to become more sustainable, I've made significant strides towards going paperless, minimizing my reliance on printed materials wherever possible. However, I recognize that packing, shipping, and delivering tea still requires the use of resources. While this aspect of my operation isn't as green as I'd like, I’m committed to making it as eco-friendly as possible by using recyclable and biodegradable packaging, optimizing shipping practices, and continuously exploring new ways to reduce my environmental impact. My journey towards sustainability is ongoing, and I am dedicated to finding better solutions as I grow.
The Journey Continues
As I look to the future, my commitment to sustainability remains steadfast. Every day, I seek new ways to enhance the natural environment, reduce waste, and share this incredible journey with others. The Scottish Tea House is not just about tea; it’s about nurturing the land, supporting biodiversity, and creating a space where people and nature can thrive together.
This is my Green Story—a story of growth, sustainability, and the simple yet profound joy of sharing a cup of tea that’s been grown with love, right here in the heart of Scotland.
