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  4. 10 Best Tea Cups UK 2024 | Wedgwood, Spode and More
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10 Best Tea Cups UK 2024 | Wedgwood, Spode and More

Who doesn't love a cup of tea? Brewed to the perfect strength, it warms you inside and immediately makes you feel calm. You may prefer Earl Grey, green tea, or a classic English Breakfast, but either way, you'll appreciate a tea cup or cup and saucer set that'll last many an afternoon tea without breaking or wearing. 


To do this, you can look at different materials such as bone china, ceramic, and glass, although of course, you might get a little overwhelmed by the selection available. Whether you'd prefer something small and dainty for a collection or a durable double wall design, this guide will help you learn the basics, and give you ten products to choose from too. 

Last updated 26/03/2024
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Table of Contents

How to Choose a Tea Cup in the UK - Buying Guide

To help you to understand more about how to buy the best tea cup for your brewing needs, we've put together a simple buying guide that covers features such as material, accessories, and how to look for an easy-care cup. Let's get into it! 

1

Start by Choosing the Size and Shape

Start by Choosing the Size and Shape

Believe it or not, the shape of the tea cup will have an effect on the taste of the tea. Your tea cup should be around 200 ml to hold a suitable amount of tea. To make sure that your tea drinking experience is as exquisite as your new cup, take a moment to consider how you like to drink this hot and steamy beverage. 


If you prefer your tea to stay hot for a long time, tall, narrow cups will make a big difference, as will making sure that there isn't a significant difference in the top and bottom circumferences. In addition, narrow tops are better for directing aromas, which is better for fragrant teas such as Earl Grey. 


Of course, you could opt for a wide rim cup if you're happy to drink your tea right away. That way, you don't need to wait for a long time for it to cool down. It's also ideal if you like weaker brews as the tea flavours don't have too much time to intensify. 

2

Choose a Material to Suit Your Tea-Drinking Habits

Tea cups can come in all different shapes and sizes, but most importantly, materials. You've heard of bone china or fine china tea cups, but are you fully aware of how a good quality cup can improve your brew? There's lots to learn, so put your feet up and take a look at our tips.

Earthenware Is Sturdy and Unlikely to Break or Chip Easily

Earthenware Is Sturdy and Unlikely to Break or Chip Easily

Earthenware tea cups are usually moulded to a bulkier shape that's intentionally thicker, which some people do prefer over daintier styles. It also makes for a strong and practical cup, created for everyday tea drinking. Not only this, but they also offer a great quality to affordability ratio. 


On the downside, earthenware cups have a tendency to be porous, which may keep drinks hotter for longer, but isn't so good for tea filtration and can retain flavours. To counter this, make sure there is a glass-like glaze coating the cup to eliminate the pores. 

China Preserves the Flavours of Tea, and Isn't as Delicate as You May Think

China Preserves the Flavours of Tea, and Isn't as Delicate as You May Think

China tea cups are are beautifully crafted with minuscule grains of clay that are fired and coated until almost translucent, creating a delicate shine. This, and their fragility, is why they're typically used for special occasions and come with saucers to keep them from getting scratched. However, even though they are breakable, they don't wear very easily


You can get several types of china, though: porcelain, bone, and fine. They're all perfect for tea because they're incredibly non-porous, so no tannins will cling to the sides of the cup which in turn preserves the body of the tea


Porcelain is delicate yet durable, whereas bone china consists of 40% cow bone ash mixed with clay – though it too has a very thin surface (seen as superior for tea sipping and tasting) that's surprisingly sturdy. Fine china has similar properties, except it's made from synthetic bone ash, making it more affordable.

Glass Is Stronger Than China and Retains Heat Well

Glass Is Stronger Than China and Retains Heat Well

Glass is an excellent material for tea cups as it's non-porous and extremely smooth like china, only less fragile


Another benefit is that you get to see and appreciate the tea or tea leaves as they slowly expand and change colour. If you like to drink blooming flower teas, you should definitely opt for a glass cup to get the full experience.


Glass isn't as insulating as some materials, although it can be very hot to the touch. Therefore, you can look for glass cups in a metal frame, a design commonly seen in countries like Morocco, or go for double walled glass, which keeps the heat in and shields your hands

3

Look for Microwaveable and Dishwasher-Friendly Cups for Easier Care

Look for Microwaveable and Dishwasher-Friendly Cups for Easier Care

If you have a dishwasher in your home, there's no doubt that you use it every day. It's a kitchen hero and it saves us from hours of washing up, especially the cutlery carnage that's left from a Sunday roast with the whole family. 


Sound familiar? You may want to opt for a cup that's dishwasher-safe, especially if you have a cup (or several cups) of tea on a daily basis. Unless you don't mind hand washing it every time, of course! You should also make sure that it's being cleaned at a temperature that's suitable for the material, as some china cups can crack under too high a heat. 


In addition to this, you might want to consider a tea cup that's microwave-safe, which gives you the option of heating up your tea if it gets cold. 

4

Check Whether Saucers or Additional Items Are Included to Build Up Your Tea Set

Check Whether Saucers or Additional Items Are Included to Build Up Your Tea Set

You can see from our recommended products that some tea cups come with matching saucers, though this isn't always standard, so it's worth checking if this is something you'd like. On top of this, some come with a teapot or infuser, too. 


Think about which would suit you depending on who you're buying for, and for what purpose. For example, a set with a matching teapot would make a great gift, a quirky single cup and saucer could be the start of a collection, or a couple of simpler matching cups would be perfect for morning brews for two. 

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Top 10 Best Tea Cups to Buy Online in the UK

Now you know what you're looking for, you're all set and ready to find out which one of these designs really is your cup of tea. Remember to keep an eye out for the material you'd prefer, and take note of whether or not your tea cup comes with any extra bits!
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
1

John Lewis & Partners

Fine China Cup & Saucer

John Lewis & Partners  Fine China Cup & Saucer 1

£25.00

Mid

A Contrasting Duo of China Cups and Saucers

2

Spode

Zoological Gardens Tea-For-One Teapot & Cup Set

Spode Zoological Gardens Tea-For-One Teapot & Cup Set 1

£85.00

High

A Tea Party for One

3

Spode

Zoological Gardens Cup & Saucer

Spode Zoological Gardens Cup & Saucer 1

£35.00

Mid

A Wild and Beautiful Design

4

Price and Kensington

Simplicity Teacup

Price and Kensington  Simplicity Teacup 1

£2.95

Low

Back to Basics With Classic White Porcelain

5

Wedgwood

Butterfly Bloom Cup and Saucer Set

Wedgwood  Butterfly Bloom Cup and Saucer Set 1

£50.00

High Mid

A Lovely Tea Time Classic

6

Sara Miller for Portmeirion

Chelsea Collection Birds Cup and Saucer

Sara Miller for Portmeirion Chelsea Collection Birds Cup and Saucer 1

£24.00

Mid

Beautifully-Packaged Fine China, Inside and Out

7

VAHDAM

Double Walled Insulated Tea Cup

VAHDAM Double Walled Insulated Tea Cup 1

£19.99

Mid

Transparent, Trendy, and Heat-Trapping

8

TKLake

Flower Glass Tea Cup

TKLake  Flower Glass Tea Cup 1

£9.99

Low Mid

A Decorative Tea Cup from a Fairy Tale

9

Victoria & Albert

Alice in Wonderland Cup and Saucer

Victoria & Albert Alice in Wonderland Cup and Saucer 1

£17.72

Mid

Inspired by the Epitome of Tea Parties

10

Royal Albert

Modern Vintage Tea Cup and Saucer

Royal Albert Modern Vintage Tea Cup and Saucer 1

£35.00

Mid

A Pretty Pink Tea Cup in a Classic Shape

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

John Lewis & Partners Fine China Cup & Saucer

Fine China Cup & Saucer 1
Source:johnlewis.com
Reference price
£25.00
Mid
Reference price
£25.00
Mid

A Contrasting Duo of China Cups and Saucers

The in-house design studio of John Lewis has designed this eye-catching set of liftable tea cups. With bold arched stripes and monochrome gold hints, this 1930's-inspired design is a must-have for your morning or afternoon tea


Being made from fine china makes them special enough to bring out for best yet also practical enough for everyday use, and the size is just right for a perfect-tasting cup of tea. Coming in an elegant box, you can choose to either gift these fine china tea cups or keep them for yourself – we wouldn't blame you! 

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No.2

SpodeZoological Gardens Tea-For-One Teapot & Cup Set

Zoological Gardens Tea-For-One Teapot & Cup Set 1
Source:johnlewis.com
Reference price
£85.00
High
Reference price
£85.00
High

A Tea Party for One

A step up on the previous tea cup, this product from Spode's Zoological range comes in a, equally pretty pale pink print with a matching tea pot. The teapot holds 255 ml while the cup holds up to 227 ml, making it a dreamy office essential with just the right amount for one.  


Plus, you can brew your first tea and have your next cup brewing while you drink it! The cup and teapot neatly stack together to sit sturdily on a shelf, so you can proudly display them between uses. 

No.3

SpodeZoological Gardens Cup & Saucer

Zoological Gardens Cup & Saucer 1
Source:johnlewis.com
Reference price
£35.00
Mid
Reference price
£35.00
Mid

A Wild and Beautiful Design

This bold and beautiful tea cup and saucer set is made from strong English earthenware for everyday use. It's safe for use in the dishwasher, microwave, freezer, and even the oven, making it flexible to your lifestyle, too. It also features a sharply-angled handle which allows for it to comfortably rest in your hand between sips of chamomile. 


Its unique design offers something different to a traditional floral tea cup pattern, and portrays a blend of three of Spode's  designs, including 'Aesop’s Fable' and zoological animals that were first introduced to the scene in the 1810s. 

No.4

Price and Kensington Simplicity Teacup

Simplicity Teacup 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£2.95
Low
Reference price
£2.95
Low

Back to Basics With Classic White Porcelain

The Price and Kensington Simplicity Collection offers a range of simple yet delicate table and serveware, including this classically-shaped tea cup and saucer. It has a slightly larger capacity than some too, so would suit those who brew their tea in-cup rather than in the pot. 


Made from durable white porcelain china, this tea cup is microwave safe-and you can even pop it in the dishwasher, too. It's a substantial item for anyone's home and at the affordable price of £2.95, you can stock up for the whole family.

No.5

Wedgwood Butterfly Bloom Cup and Saucer Set

Reference price
£50.00
High Mid

A Lovely Tea Time Classic

Made by the perhaps the most iconic British serveware brand, Wedgewood, this elegantly-printed tea cup and saucer set brings a spark of joy to your afternoon tea, and would make a great first classic tea cup to a collection, or just a treat for yourself!  


The wide rim and thin lip provide optimum tea-sipping temperature and taste, and each beautiful piece is crafted from fine bone china and the design is printed by hand, proving the product's excellent quality and one-of-a-kind aesthetics. 

No.6

Sara Miller for PortmeirionChelsea Collection Birds Cup and Saucer

Chelsea Collection Birds Cup and Saucer 1
Source:johnlewis.com
Reference price
£24.00
Mid
Reference price
£24.00
Mid

Beautifully-Packaged Fine China, Inside and Out

This intricately-designed cup and saucer from the Chelsea Collection by Sara Miller for Portmeirion is a stunning piece to either keep for yourself or give to a lucky loved one. Though it has a narrower rim than some, it's ideal for enjoying with tea brewed in a pot.


With touches of 22-carat gold, this fine china tea cup features strikingly vibrant colours that you can mix and match with other collectables from the set. On top of all of that, it's presented in a gorgeous foil-pressed box, too.

No.7

VAHDAMDouble Walled Insulated Tea Cup

Double Walled Insulated Tea Cup 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£19.99
Mid
Reference price
£19.99
Mid

Transparent, Trendy, and Heat-Trapping

This pair of borosilicate glass tea cups feature a double-walled, insulating layer which is not only practical, but makes the tea look like it's floating in the cup! Keeping the heat exactly where it needs to be – the tea, and not your hands – these cups are safe to use and comfortable to hold. 


Not only do these keep your drink hotter for longer, but they're also a very smart and sleek addition to any kitchen cupboard. They're also very easy to care for and keep free from chips or breakages, as they're crafted with such sturdiness and simplicity.

No.8

TKLake Flower Glass Tea Cup

Flower Glass Tea Cup 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£9.99
Low Mid
Reference price
£9.99
Low Mid

A Decorative Tea Cup from a Fairy Tale

Each of these tea cups is made from high-quality, sturdy glass with a stainless steel teaspoon to match. Adorned with beautiful decorations, this is no cup for your daily brew – it's clearly made for something special.


Its luxury novelty makes it a brilliant gift or collectors item, though it isn't microwave- or dishwasher-safe, so bear that in mind when you take care of it. 

No.9

Victoria & AlbertAlice in Wonderland Cup and Saucer

Alice in Wonderland Cup and Saucer 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£17.72
Mid
Reference price
£17.72
Mid

Inspired by the Epitome of Tea Parties

Featuring gorgeous sketches from Alice in Wonderland, this teacup and saucer set makes a charming gift. Taking a closer look, the sides are adorned with pocket watches, cake stands, golden keys, and top hats, all of which are typical elements of the Wonderland itself. 


Plus, there's also a set of matching mugs, cake stands, plates, and other tableware, so you can build your tea party collection! However, take into consideration the fragility of these cups, and perhaps save them for best. 

No.10

Royal AlbertModern Vintage Tea Cup and Saucer

Modern Vintage Tea Cup and Saucer 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£35.00
Mid
Reference price
£35.00
Mid

A Pretty Pink Tea Cup in a Classic Shape

This classic design is pretty in pink with rose accents on both the exterior and interior. Made from fine bone china, this delicate tea cup also comes with a matching saucer.  The wide rim and shallow base mean that, while the cup is fairly deep, the tea will be drinking temperature almost immediately


This dos mean that you have to drink your tea right away without letting it get too cold, because, unfortunately, you can't put the cup nor the saucer in the microwave. 

Summary

Put the kettle on, you're almost there. You can now enjoy a cup of tea, whether it be fruit, leaf, or flower, in one of these gorgeous tea cups. We hope that you enjoyed looking through our favourite products and that you found our buying guide useful. 


Author: Annie Speight

Top 5 Tea Cups

No. 1: John Lewis & Partners Fine China Cup & Saucer

No. 2: SpodeZoological Gardens Tea-For-One Teapot & Cup Set

No. 3: SpodeZoological Gardens Cup & Saucer

No. 4: Price and Kensington Simplicity Teacup

No. 5: Wedgwood Butterfly Bloom Cup and Saucer Set

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The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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