Loose Leaf Tea

If it's luxury loose leaf tea you are looking for, you will find it right here at Ringtons. We have been handcrafting the finest loose leaf teas since 1907 and have perfected our blends to provide you with the most satisfying cup of tea you have ever tasted.

Tea Bundles - collection icon
Tea Bundles
Tea Bags - collection icon
Tea Bags
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Fruit & Herbal Tea
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Tea Gifts
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Individually Wrapped Tea Bags

6 products

We use only the highest quality ingredients in our blends, sourced from around the world, to deliver a rich flavour you won't find anywhere else. At Ringtons, we believe that drinking loose leaf tea is a ritual and a must for any tea lover. If it's maximum flavour you are after, our range of traditional, breakfast, and gold blend teas is perfect for you. Browse our full collection of premium loose leaf teas right here. Take a look at our wider tea offering as well. One thing is for sure: when you choose Ringtons tea, you know it will be done right.

How To Make The Perfect Loose Leaf Tea

Brewing the perfect cup of loose leaf English Breakfast tea is an art and a skill, but it's something you can easily learn how to do. How to brew loose leaf tea? Firstly, how much loose leaf tea per cup should you use? That's easy; just use one teaspoon of loose tea leaves for every cup you want to make, then let it steep for three to five minutes in hot water, depending on how strong you want it. Once it's ready, you can drink it as it comes, add a splash of milk, a twist of lemon, or maybe some honey – the choice is yours.

  • Explore Our Range Of Loose Leaf Tea

    Ringtons is dedicated to finding the best teas from around the world, and no matter what loose tea variety is your favourite, you'll be able to find it here. We take pride in offering an extensive selection of the finest loose teas, including green teas, herbal tea, and classic black tea like English Breakfast.

    Our selection of loose leaf breakfast tea is ideal for those who understand that the morning has to start with a good cup of tea. Loose leaf English Breakfast tea is all about quality and enjoyment.

    Maybe you're looking for something different for your morning brew and your loose tea leaves; if so, we can help you there, too. Browse the different types of loose leaf tea we have right here. 

  • Why Choose Ringtons?

    At the heart of everything is our commitment to sourcing the finest teas for our customers, and whether you want the delicate simplicity of green teas or the strong, deep character of black tea, you can find it from us.

    Why should you choose Ringtons? The answer's simple: we ensure quality, sustainability, and taste in every sip of tea we provide, and our expertise means you'll always be happy with the tea in your cup – whether that's loose leaf or tea bags. Keep our tea fresher for longer by storing it in an airtight container away from sunlight.

Loose Leaf Tea FAQs

Choosing the right loose leaf tea

1. What is loose leaf tea?

Loose leaf tea consists of tea leaves supplied loose rather than contained in an individual tea bag. This means you measure the amount yourself and brew the leaves in a teapot, infuser or other suitable brewing equipment.

2. What is the difference between loose leaf tea and tea bags?

The biggest difference is how the tea is prepared. Loose leaf tea gives you control over how much tea you use and how long it infuses, while tea bags offer a quicker and more convenient way to make a cup.

3. Is loose leaf tea better than tea bags?

There isn’t a superior option, as it depends on what you want from your tea. Loose leaf tea best suits those who enjoy the tea preparation process and want greater control over quantity and strength. Tea
bags are ideal for those wanting a quick, no-fuss brew.

4. Which Ringtons loose leaf tea should I try first?

It all depends on your desired flavour. Our Breakfast blend is a great choice for those who enjoy fuller, stronger flavours. Our Traditional Valley View and Northumbrian blends provide unique takes on the classic cup.

5. What does Northumbrian Blend Loose Tea taste like?

Northumbrian Blend is one of our traditional loose leaf options. It’s perfect for those who prefer a classic, full-bodied cup.

6. What is Traditional Valley View Loose Tea?

Traditional Valley View is one of our classic loose leaf blends, which is available individually or as a four-pack bundle.

Brewing loose leaf tea

7. How much loose leaf tea should I use per cup?

We recommend approximately one heaped teaspoon per cup. You can then adjust the quantity to match the cup size and your preferred strength.

8. How long should I brew loose leaf tea?

Three to five minutes is a typical brewing time, and longer brews result in a stronger cup. Use this recommendation as a starting point and adjust to your taste.

9. What temperature should the water be for loose leaf black tea?

Freshly boiled water is the best choice. Unlike repeatedly boiled water, freshly boiled water allows you to enjoy the tea’s intended flavour.

10. Can you make loose leaf tea without a teapot?

Yes. Any infuser, tea strainer, or brewing device that holds loose tea leaves and allows water to circulate around them will work well.

11. Can I make loose leaf tea in a mug?

Yes. Using a mug and tea infuser is the simplest way to brew loose leaf tea without a teapot.

12. Should I add milk to loose leaf tea?

The choice is yours, as it comes down to your taste and chosen blend. For instance, our Traditional Valley View Tea tastes great with or without milk.

13. Can I add sugar, honey or lemon to loose leaf tea?

Yes, sugar, honey and lemon are common additions, depending on your chosen tea and preferred flavour.

Storing and using loose leaf tea

14. How should I store loose leaf tea?

Once opened, we suggest storing loose leaf tea in an airtight container in a cool, dark place, away from moisture, heat, light and strong smells.

15. How long does loose leaf tea stay fresh once opened?

There isn’t a fixed period. Follow our storage instructions on the individual product and use your senses to judge if the tea smells and tastes fresh.

16. Can loose leaf tea be reused?

You can infuse some whole-leaf teas more than once, but it depends on the type of tea and the flavour remaining after the first brew. If enjoying our traditional black tea blends, follow the normal brewing instructions for best results.

17. Why does my loose leaf tea taste bitter?

It’s likely due to over-brewing, using too much tea, or using water that’s too hot for a particular type of tea. Reduce the brewing time or tea quantity to suit your taste.

18. Why does my loose leaf tea taste weak?

You’re likely using too little tea, or the brewing time is too short. Add a little more tea or increase the infusion time gradually until you find your desired strength.

19. Is loose leaf tea suitable for making a large pot of tea?

Yes. Loose leaf tea is great for making several cups, as you can increase the amount of tea to match the quantity of water. We recommend one heaped teaspoon per cup as a starting point.