I first discovered Forest Hill through a rather unexpected personal connection: Buddhika is the husband of my dad’s doctor! The more I learned about his work, the more I wanted to share his teas. Based around Warnagala, in the forested foothills of Adam’s Peak, Buddhika is exploring what Sri Lankan tea can be when traditional knowledge, thoughtful craftsmanship and a respect for nature come together.
Some of Forest Hill’s teas are made from old tea trees that have grown wild among the surrounding forest for generations. Others celebrate the work of local smallholder farmers, while its handmade tea rods showcase an ingenious approach to preparing and enjoying tea. Across the collection, there is a wonderful sense of curiosity and individuality, with each tea offering its own way to experience Sri Lanka’s rich tea heritage.
Forest Hill’s approach also places people and the environment at its heart, with a focus on forest-friendly production, supporting local farmers and creating opportunities for the surrounding community.
The collection includes:
Farmers Brew – An approachable, satisfying tea celebrating the harvests of local smallholder farmers. A lovely everyday brew with a connection to the people behind the leaves.
Warnagala – A taste of Forest Hill’s remarkable landscape, where old tea trees grow among the forests at the foot of Adam’s Peak. Its wild-grown tea captures the distinctive character of this unusual growing environment.
Vanilla Feathers – A fragrant, distinctive tea bringing together Forest Hill’s artisanal approach and the inviting aroma of vanilla.
Vanilla Tea Rod – A wonderfully inventive creation featuring hand-rolled tea leaves with Sri Lankan vanilla at the centre. Place the rod in hot water and watch it gradually unfurl, releasing a rich, warming infusion with a lingering vanilla fragrance.
Classic Tea Rod – Forest Hill’s signature handmade tea experience. Carefully shaped and tied with cotton thread, the rod opens in hot water to release its leaves. It is a simple but ingenious alternative to a conventional teabag, combining traditional craftsmanship with a little theatre in the teacup.
Stars – A distinctive offering from Forest Hill’s artisanal range, adding another expression of the creativity and care behind Buddhika’s teas. These teas are shaped into stars! I love them.
Pink Green Tea – A colourful twist on green tea, offering a different flavour experience within the collection.
Spicy Blend – A warming, characterful blend for those who enjoy a little extra spice in their cup.
Together, these teas showcase the many sides of Forest Hill: wild-grown leaves, everyday favourites, imaginative blends and handmade creations that make the ritual of brewing feel special.
Read more about Buddhika here!
