Scottish Tea House, Lanark
Joanne Holley
Joanne Holley is the founder and proprietor of The Scottish Tea House, a serene and contemporary tea house nestled in the picturesque Lanarkshire countryside.
Her journey into the world of tea cultivation began with visits to tea-growing regions in China and Sri Lanka, fuelling her passion for loose-leaf teas. Inspired by her travels and driven by a commitment to sustainability, Joanne embarked on the ambitious project of establishing her own tea garden at her home in Lanarkshire.
With meticulous care and dedication, Joanne planted Camellia Sinensis tea bushes in her garden, with further plantings in subsequent years, all while incorporating agroforestry principles to promote biodiversity and soil health. Her tea garden is not only a testament to her love for tea but also serves as a haven for flora and fauna, with native trees, shrubs, and a wildlife pond enhancing the landscape.
At The Scottish Tea House, Joanne offers a carefully curated tea menu featuring her own exquisite single estate tea, aptly named "The Angels' Share."
This handcrafted tea is a reflection of Lanarkshire's terroir and Joanne's commitment to producing the highest quality leaves through organic farming practices. The tea house itself exudes tranquillity, surrounded by lush landscaping and native flora, providing an idyllic setting for visitors to enjoy a unique tea experience.
“At Scottish Tea House we farm organically to produce the highest quality leaves possible. Our finished tea is 100% Scottish, unblended and single-estate. We believe in protecting the environment by developing growing methods that keep sustainability at the forefront of all our decisions.”
The tea tour offered by The Scottish Tea House allows visitors to immerse themselves in the art of tea cultivation and appreciation. From exploring the tea garden and learning about the nuances of tea cultivation to indulging in a homemade afternoon tea and experiencing a sensory tea tasting session, each aspect of the tour promises to delight the senses and deepen one's appreciation for the tradition of Scottish tea-making.
Joanne's passion for tea, coupled with her commitment to sustainability and craftsmanship, shines through in every aspect of The Scottish Tea House experience.
Whether you're a seasoned tea enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of tea, a visit here to The Scottish Tea House promises to be a memorable and enriching journey into the world of fine teas and Scottish tea-making traditions.