The first recorded mention of coffee in England dates to the 16th century, but it wasn't until the 17th century that it became a popular drink. In 1652, the first coffee house opened in London, and over the next few decades, dozens more would follow. These coffee houses quickly became popular meeting places for artists, writers, politicians, and other members of high society.

 

 

The first member of the British royal family to try coffee is said to be King Charles II, who was introduced to the drink by the Ottoman ambassador in 1660. According to legend, the king was so impressed by the taste of the coffee that he granted the ambassador permission to sell coffee in England without paying taxes.

 

 

Coffee quickly became a fashionable drink among the upper classes in England, and the royal family played a role in popularizing it. Queen Anne, who ruled from 1702 to 1714, was said to be a big fan of coffee, and her court was known for its coffee-drinking culture. It is said that she even had a special room in Kensington Palace where she would serve coffee to her guests.

 

 

The royal family's connection to coffee continued into the 18th century. In 1718, King George I granted a royal charter to the London Stock Exchange, and one of the conditions of the charter was that a coffee house be established in the building. The coffee house, which was called Jonathan's Coffee House, became an important meeting place for traders and merchants, and it played a significant role in the development of the modern stock market.

 

In 1751, the British royal family opened their own coffee house, called the Queen's Arms, in St. James's Park. The coffee house was located in a pavilion that had been built for Queen Caroline, the wife of King George II, and it was open to the public. The Queen's Arms became a popular spot for members of high society to gather and enjoy a cup of coffee.

 

 

In the 19th century, coffee continued to be an important part of British culture, and the royal family continued to play a role in its development. Queen Victoria was said to be a big fan of coffee, and she was known to drink it every morning. Her son, King Edward VII, was also a coffee lover, and he would often visit coffee houses around London.

 

 

Today, coffee remains an important part of British culture, and the royal family continues to have connections to the beverage. In 2018, King Charles himself even launched his own brand of coffee (it’s quite good, but not as good as ours…).

 

 

In conclusion, the British royal family has had a long and fascinating relationship with coffee. From introducing it to high society to opening their own coffee houses, the royals have played an important role in the history of coffee in England. Today, coffee remains an important part of British culture, and the royal family continues to have a fondness for the beverage.