Put the Kettle On

The Yorkshire way to make a Proper Cup of Tea

Yorkshire is, of course, the birthplace of Yorkshire Tea, so standards around these parts are understandably high.

A proper brew does not require anything particularly fancy. No specialist equipment, no complicated instructions and certainly no need to overthink it. Just fresh water, a good tea bag and enough patience to let it brew properly.

Start with cold water and bring the kettle to a full boil. Warm your mug if you’re feeling especially civilised. Add the Yorkshire tea bag, pour over the water and leave it alone for a good three to four minutes. This is not the moment to rush. Great tea, like most worthwhile things, benefits from a little time.

Add milk to taste, give it a gentle stir and, if possible, accompany it with a biscuit or two (or three - why not).

There is a particular comfort in this ritual.

Perhaps you have spent the morning exploring the cobbled streets of Thirsk, or returning from a walk around Newsham with muddy boots.

Back at 35 Kirkgate or anywhere else you may be staying at Newsham, the kettle goes on and shoulders drop by approximately two inches.

And for a moment, everything feels exactly as it should. Tea has a remarkable ability to invite us in to slow down, settle in and enjoy the pleasure of simply being still for a few moments.

The only real mistake here is removing the tea bag too early.

And, if your biscuit takes an unexpected dive into the mug, consider it a gentle reminder that perfection was never the point.