Barb's TEA Shop Wishlist 2014: A countdown to Downton

Share your weekend (whatever that is) with Lady Violet teddy

Although our BTS wishlist is a little late this year, even with late shipping, no tea enthusiast/Downton Abbey fanatic will complain if any of these items arrive post-Christmas. Be creative and say these DA-inspired gifts are planned to arrive to coincide with the airing of the fifth season on January 4th (see there, plenty of time!)

Let your DA devote start their weekend, whatever that is, with a good book, a fuzzy blanket, a cup of tea and a good Dowager to snuggle with. Order this delightful Lady Violet  for $75.00 to keep you in line and in good company from Signals.

Lord Grantham teddy

Lord Gulley  of Glencoe

And for the Lord in your life, how about a teddy-likeness with Lord Grantham, attired, of course, in his Donegal tweed suit and also for $75.00 at Signals.

Downton Abbey Christmas tea gift set

Of course, the holidays and Downton Abbey are always more enjoyable with a hot cup of tea. The Republic of Tea has combined both beautifully with this Downton Abbey Christmas gift set for $24,95.

Are we having tea or not?

To accompany your Lady Violet teddy or to play the Dowager's drinking game (every time she utters a quip, you take a sip of tea), no DA fan could be without the Dowager Darjeeling from Bingley's Tea. We have sampled this tasty tea and give it a Lady's gloved-two-thumbs up to this blend which demands, "Are we having tea or not?"

Beautiful Edwardian tea gown

And, why not have afternoon tea as the Crawley's do in a fashionable Edwardian tea dress from Victorian Trading Company for a mere $179.95.  Perhaps someone you know who is a size medium would enjoy this beautiful frock.

Another great Downton Abbey book from Jessica Fellowes

 Another must-have for DA-philes is any one - or even better the collection - of Downton Abbey books written by Jessica Fellowes, niece of DA creator, Julian Fellowes. We met Jessica Fellowes last month in Delaware where she was the guest speaker at Wilmington's Antique and Garden Show. I received her first book as birthday present two years ago and Jessica Fellowes had me at page one. I purchased the third and most recent book in the series, "A Year in the Life of Downton Abbey".  It's wonderful to follow the series throughout the year and there are several great recipes included (scones are my favorite!).

Rachel, Barb and Jessica Fellowes

And,  the piece de resistance for any Downton Abbey fan, what could be more exciting than a visit to Highclere Castle and a stay on the grounds at London Lodge? Nothing! Opening dates start February 13 and include various dates throughout the new year. There's even a tea tray set near the Lodge's fireplace. 

Having tea and a stay at Highclere, not exactly priceless

Accommodations start around  $550.00 a night. Even if this comes after the holiday season, no recipient would complain.

Keep in mind, Barb's TEA Shop will be presenting several Downton Abbey-inspired teas in 2015. Stay connected to barbsteashop.com for future event dates!

Whether a Downton Abbey themed tea or a trip across the pond to the grounds of Highclere Castle, there is something on BTS' wishlist to fill anyone's stocking.

But, most of all, we wish all our dear friends the great delights the holiday season brings!