Babingtons Tea - Two women with a vision
In 1893, a spirited blend of entrepreneurship and a touch of eccentricity brought Anna Maria Babington and Isabel Cargill together to establish the renowned Babingtons Tea Rooms in Rome. While much has changed since then, their legacy has endured through countless joys and challenges, becoming a truly timeless love affair with tea.
Two young, well-educated English ladies arrived in Rome on the Grand Tour that year. Isabel Cargill was the daughter of Captain Cargill, founder of the city of Dunedin in New Zealand, and Anna Maria Babington was a descendant of Antony Babington, who was executed in 1586 for conspiring against Queen Elizabeth I.
With just £100 of their savings, the pair took a courageous step to open a tea and reading room catering to the Anglo-Saxon community in Rome. The venture was a considerable risk, as tea was not a widespread custom in Italy at the time and was sold only in pharmacies.
Babingtons Tea Rooms quickly found success, not only because Italy was the ultimate destination on the Grand Tour for the English, but also because Rome was celebrating the Jubilee and the silver wedding of King Umberto and Queen Margherita.
Babingtons Tea, it's all about bringing together contrasts in the most delightful way. English tradition meets Italian charm. Classic Victorian elegance blends with a touch of modern humour. Timeless rituals are made part of everyday life. Our tea blends are inspired by this unique heritage, crafted not just to taste exceptional, but to offer a memorable experience. When you enjoy Babingtons, you’re not just drinking fine tea, you’re becoming part of our ongoing story.
The 4th of December 1893, saw the opening of the Tearooms, in Via Due Macelli 66, only a short walking distance from Piazza di Spagna. They called it ‘Babington’s Tea Rooms’ because, between the two surnames, Babington’s was easier for Italians to pronounce.
Even before the first cup of tea was served an English-language weekly published in the city – The Roman Herald – had already announced ‘A long-felt want in Rome has at last been supplied, and that is, a Tearooms where ladies or gentlemen, hard at work sightseeing…..could go to refresh themselves with a comforting cup of tea or coffee with the necessary adjuncts…’ A place where the atmosphere of England was recreated and where, in peace and quiet, books and newspapers could be read. ‘We feel sure,’ the article continued, ‘ that many of our readers will jump at the good news, as it will prove a great convenience as a meeting place now that the distances in Rome have so much increased’. The journal added that, with a monthly subscription of two francs, it was possible to use the reading room between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Those who simply came to take tea could also use the reading room for a modest extra cost of ten cents. At the foot of the article the journal announced a great novelty: a small cabinet de toilette!
Babingtons teas are available in a variety of elegant formats to suit every tea lover’s preference. Whether you enjoy the ritual of loose leaf brewing or the convenience of a pyramid tea bag, we have you covered.
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Biodegradable Pyramid Tea Bags
Perfect for everyday ease, without compromising on flavour or quality.
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Loose Tea
For those who appreciate the full sensory experience of measuring, steeping, and savouring.
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Loose Tea Caddies
Beautifully designed and ideal for gifting or keeping your favourite blend fresh and stylish on your shelf.
