What the Royal Family’s favourite tea and coffee orders say about them

A human behavioral expert analyzes the drinking habits of the Royal Family.

Trained psychologist Darren Stanton examined some of the most senior Royals’ favorite tea and coffee choices exclusively for UK coffee retailer Coffee Friend in 2022 and determined what these picks suggest about their personalities.

Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales - Decaf Latte

Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales

“The concept of decaf indicates that a person is very controlled and self-aware since drinking too much coffee can be an issue. By ordering a decaf, this largely alleviates the effects of caffeine, while still getting a similar taste.

“People that choose specific coffee orders with subtle tweaks as an option are also quite methodical, they like precision and they know what they want. This could be a nod to Kate’s assertiveness and growth as a senior member of the Royal Family.

“The downside of latte drinkers is that their order is considered fairly bland. Little permutations and a generally basic starter pack drink for coffee lovers. This may suggest Kate isn’t the most adventurous, however, for someone with a very busy schedule full of daily routines these simple, easy-to-drink choices are perfect for a working mum.”

Prince William, Prince of Wales - Breakfast Tea

Prince William, Prince of Wales

“Prince William’s favorite hot beverage has never been revealed, however, he has been spotted drinking several cups of breakfast tea while on engagements. This is a no fuss, very open to suggestions type drink that isn’t really about the flavor, but rather a goodwill gesture to receive to build rapport with those that make it. 

“As a personality, drinking regular breakfast tea suggests stability and consistency, not for someone taking too many risks. This aligns with Kate’s decaf tea and what makes them a good match and their choices seem largely made to suit their roles as Royals, where they continue to dedicate their time and efforts the most in their lives.

“Basic breakfast tea is a drink that is the maker of great friends and partners because what you see is what you get.”

King Charles - Darjeeling Tea

King Charles

According to reports, King Charles favors drinking Darjeeling tea with honey.

“This signifies someone has a personality that isn’t afraid to take risks in order to get what they want, considering Darjeeling is a spicier acquired taste. The honey seeks to soften the sometimes bitterness of the tea and is a cover to hide the real taste.

“Thought to have many medicinal qualities, such as boosting the immune system, calming the mind and body from stress. With its ability to help relax drinkers, those who opt to drink Darjeeling are big thinkers with creative ideas and are calculated enough to first analyze situations without making rash decisions.”

Queen Camilla  - Cappuccino 

Queen Camilla

“Camilla has been pictured in Italy previously with a cappuccino, a drink best suited to perfectionists who like being in control.

“Cappuccino drinkers are people with highly demanding personalities. They can be risk takers, who are not afraid to step out of their comfort zone.  However, they are not reckless, just more adventurous than others. People would tend to trust them because they will generally stay within certain parameters.

“A cappuccino drinker can be known to be slightly obsessive and overly sensitive when it comes to more personal aspects of their life in which they may feel judged, particularly in the public eye.”

The late Queen Elizabeth II - Earl Grey

Queen Elizabeth II

Royal sources have previously come forward and spoken of how Earl Grey tea was The Queen’s favorite hot drink.

“Psychological research suggests that people who enjoy Earl Grey tea are linked to class and are mature in their personality. 

“The choice of an older generation, Earl Grey has fallen out of favor in the current trend of hot beverages. This sense of tradition also matches up to the Queen’s character. 

“A more acquired taste than other teas, this specific flavor is linked to power and strength. 

“Being just tea, milk and water, less complex than many coffees, which symbolizes simplicity, assertiveness and honesty.”

Prince Harry - Green Juice

Prince Harry

“Reports from a couple of years ago have said Prince Harry used to just enjoy normal white coffee before switching to juice when moving to California. 

“This switch is a good example of the change in cultures from the UK to the US, but also the modern drinker - not willing to stick to their ways with so many choices in the market. 

“This resembles open-mindedness and versatility as well as being in touch with emotions in which different environments may determine mood and therefore how someone may act.

“The Californian lifestyle and the influence of his wife, Meghan Markle, may have also been a factor in this, representing change and a separation from his Royal duties in London compared to his new life in the US.”

For the full interview, check out CoffeeFriend.co.uk. * Originally published in 2022, updated in 2023.