Downton Abbey
Downton Abbey aired for six seasons in the U.S., and its American fans became legion. Millions could not resist the upscale dramas of the Crawley family and its servants, and the show continues to attract devotees on NBC’s Peacock streaming service. If your beloved mater is among the Downtonites, why not treat her this year to a tea service fit for the denizens of the Abbey itself?
Victorian Trading Co. | Country Manor Tea Set
“I find it harder and harder every day to live up to my blue china,” remarked Oscar Wilde. But Mom can live it up in style with this enchanting “Chinoiserie” tea set in blue and cream porcelain with gold accents. The set includes teapot, two cups, two saucers, and an elegant serving tray.
$199.95 | www.victoriantradingco.com
Harney & Sons | Silver-Plated Tea Strainer with Nest
This aristocrat of loose tea strainers fits over a teacup’s rim, catching any loose leaves flowing from the spout of a teapot. Both practical and sophisticated, the set adds a panache to afternoon tea that even Violet Crawley, Dowager Countess of Grantham, would approve.
$15.99 | www.harney.com
Etsy | “Ring Carson for Tea” teaspoon
Carson may well not answer, but it’s the thought that counts. From the tiny bell etched in this vintage silver plate spoon, to the command etched below it, this tea accessory will transport your mother back into the long-gone age depicted in the series. From the Chandys Creations shop on Etsy.
$14.24 | www.etsy.com
Williams Sonoma | Garvey’s Best of Britain Traditional Scone Mix
No real afternoon tea is complete without scones, so give Mom this mix that even Beryl Patmore would not turn up her nose at. Made in Washington State with the highest-quality organic flour and organic evaporated cane juice, the mix makes eight light and flaky scones. (For extra Mother’s Day credit, seek out a local source for Devonshire clotted cream and fresh strawberry jam.)
$5.95 | www.williams-sonoma.com
Upton Tea | Devonshire Earl Grey Loose Tea
Family-owned, Massachusetts-based Upton Tea Imports offers a whole range of Earl Grey teas, but our pick to complete this special Mother’s Day collection is their Devonshire Earl Grey. The quality black tea base is flavored with traditional, natural bergamot and a tiny hint of refreshing lemon. A rich and unmistakably classic tea that Cora, Countess of Grantham, would sip with pleasure. Mom will, too. |100 grams
$11.95 | www.uptontea.com
