In this episode of Crafting Scotland, I sit down with Sandra Benn, founder of Chiya & Chai Tea Tastings, to explore a surprising thread running through Scotland’s heritage story — tea. What begins as a tale of overwhelm at a posh afternoon tea becomes a fascinating journey into forgotten Scottish history, living craft traditions, and the unexpected pleasure of simply slowing down. Sandra shares how her curiosity led her to discover five Scottish pioneers who played pivotal roles in bringing tea from China to the rest of the world — figures who are celebrated across Asia, yet largely unknown on home soil. She unpacks the remarkable story of James Taylor from Auchenblae, Aberdeenshire — now known as the Father of Ceylon Tea — and reveals the extraordinary full-circle moment linking a modern-day Scottish tea grower to those very same pioneers. The conversation weaves together themes that are deeply familiar to the Crafting Scotland community: the power of gathering together, working with your hands, sharing stories, and finding meaning in slow, deliberate moments. Whether it’s the women of Harris waulking the tweed, or a veterans’ wellbeing group crafting side by side with cups of tea in hand, Sandra makes the case that tea has always been woven into the fabric of Scottish community life. Kerstin and Sandra also discuss Scotland’s little-known status as one of the world’s most northerly tea-growing nations, and why afternoon tea deserves to be appreciated beyond the cake stand. This is an episode for the curious, the heritage-lovers, and anyone who’s ever reached for an Earl Grey just because it felt safe — and wondered if there might be something more. About Sandra Benn She creates immersive, accessible tea experiences for individuals, visitors, corporate groups, and community organisations. Her work spans private tastings, collaborative experiences (including scone-making and chocolate pairings), and community wellbeing events with organisations such as Veterans Tribe Scotland. Sandra’s motto: It’s always tea time. Find Sandra at [chiyaandchai.co.uk] and on social media LinkedIn and Instagram. Thank you for listening to the podcast. I would love to know what you’re taking away from this episode. Drop me a DM on Instagram or put a comment in wherever you’re listening to the podcast. I will reply. If you are a crafter in Scotland (or know one that would be ideal for this podcast) and would like to be a guest on this podcast, then please complete this short form - https://form.typeform.com/to/kUUWIPfR To stay in touch and find out about upcoming guests then visit me over on Instagram and follow along - https://www.instagram.com/devinetoursofscotland/ In case this inspires you not only to be more creative but also plan a holiday in Scotland and would like a little help with planning your trip or even like me to guide you in part or for the entire duration of your stay, then check out my website and use the contact form to get in touch - https://devinetoursofscotland.co.uk This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit devinetoursofscotland.substack.com
