When: Tuesday 8th July 2025 – 11am
Where: Stoke-on-Trent and Beyond
The final countdown is on to Stoke-on-Trent’s world record attempt Big Centenary Tea Party as full houses are announced at all its official hubs.
More than 14,000 people across 169 locations – from the city’s German twin Erlangen to Glastonbury, from Ayrshire to the House of Lords — will join in the attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the World’s Biggest Cream Tea Party.
Two new venues — NatWest in Hanley and Stoke Town Hall — have been added to the list of official hubs supporting this ambitious world record bid.
Nicky Twemlow of YMCA North Staffordshire, one of the event organising team, said: “The Big Centenary Tea Party promises to be a vibrant expression of community pride, friendship, and the unique Stokie spirit.
“Whether you’re at one of the official hubs or celebrating in your own way at home, school, work, or your local park, everyone is invited to raise a cup and a scone in honour of this incredible milestone.”
Anyone can sign up to be a part of the event until noon on Monday July by using this link (https://forms.gle/LUZiQkhaxMi2ZZRS6)
How the Record Will Be Made (and Adjudicated)
Guinness World Records will be officially adjudicating at five of the participating venues. At these hubs, strict criteria will be followed to give the best chance of smashing the record… from serving the right type of scones and tea, to ensuring timing and participation rules are met.
But this is about more than numbers. The 12,000+ others taking part in their own way across the UK and internationally will each receive a certificate of participation, marking their role in this history-making day.
Every cream tea, every gathering, and every smile will celebrate Stoke-on-Trent’s centenary with pride and togetherness.
Timings and Togetherness
All official tea parties will begin at 1100 sharp, as thousands of people come together in a shared moment of celebration.
And with support flooding in, including a personal video message from Stoke’s own Robbie Williams, the Big Centenary Tea Party is already unforgettable. (Watch Robbie’s message here: https://www.facebook.com/sotcitycouncil/videos/748877044301476)
An online guestbook is open for participants to upload photos and messages from their tea parties, helping us create a lasting memory of the day: https://tinyurl.com/285zwanh
What Happens Next?
It’s hoped to receive confirmation from Guinness World Records within a few hours after the event. But record or not, this is already a triumph of community spirit.
Join the Celebration
Though our official hubs are full, you can still be part of the day. Host your own tea party your way. Bring your neighbours, friends, and colleagues together, and let’s raise our cups high for Stoke-on-Trent’s centenary.
