Tea Room Treasures

of

East Anglia

June 2014 Summer Issue

Celebrating A Great British Tradition Afternoon Tea

Featured Tea Spots Godmanchester Ely Huntingdon

Tea Room Treasures of East Anglia

Tea Room Treasures

of East Anglia

Tea Notes Summer is in full swing and I cannot think of a better way to enjoy the warmer climate than sipping English Breakfast Tea and sampling Victorian Sponge Cake whilst lounging on sunlight terrace

Tea Room Treasures of East Angliarsquos summer issue features three happily situated tea rooms in our wonderful rustic and rural East Anglia with opportunities to enjoy the summer weather either indoors or out From elegant pink and white interiors to the country cottage charm of an English garden there is a tea room to fit almost every temperament and druthers

With the summer days growing longer and the schools soon to be out be sure to take time out of lifersquos busy schedule to enjoy a nice spot of tea and reacquaint yourself with one of Britainrsquos finest traditions

~CA Eccles

2

Inside this issue Tea Notes 2

Map of East Anglia 3

Afternoon Tea 5

Serendipity Cafe 7

Peacockrsquos Tea Room 9

Old Bridge Hotelhelliphelliphellip 11

Special Thanks 13

Summer Issue Preview 13

About the Authorhelliphellip 14

Image Credits

Image credits all images and content provided by CA Eccles unless other-wise indicated All works under cop-

yright restrictions

Front Enjoying tea in a classic tea set reading works by classicist writ-

ers on a warm summerrsquos day

Left Classic Afternoon Tea tray

Back A page from Dickens during

afternoon tea

copy CA Eccles 2014 All rights reserved

Summer 2014

ldquoThere are few hours in life more agreeable

than the hour dedicated to the ceremony

known as afternoon teardquo (Henry James

The Portrait of a Ladymdash1843-1916)

3

Tea Room Treasures of East Anglia

4

Summer 2014

Origins

Afternoon tea began in

the early nineteenth cen-

tury when only two

main meals--breakfast

and a late dinner--were

served Anna the 7th

Duchess of Bedford

complained of a ldquosinking

feelingrdquo in the late

afternoon and with

none of the current pomp

and ceremony was served

a pot of tea and a light

snack of sandwiches and

cake

ldquoTea to the English is really just a picnic indoorsrdquo Alice Walker (1944- )

Afternoon Tea A brief history What better way to experi-ence Great Britain than to participate in ldquoafternoon teardquo a British tradition that began in the early 19th century when a noble woman felt

hungry

Today the event is replete with pomp and ceremony with classic and specialty teas and scrumptious cakes and

sandwiches In England there is at least one pub in every village and the same almost holds true for tea rooms One can enjoy formal afternoon tea at high society establishments in London such as The Ritz or The Savoy or relax in a rural countryside atmosphere found in local villages throughout

the United Kingdom

Anna Maria Russell Duchess of Bedford (3 September 1783 ndash 3 July

1857) (courtesy Wikimedia Commons)

5

6 6 6

Tea Room Treasures of East Anglia

The Tea Room Awards Stiff Competition

The UK Tea and Infusions Association (formerly the UK Tea Council) is an inde-pendent body promoting tea

and its history

Under the Associationrsquos guid-ance tea experts covertly visit establishments and score them using sixteen different catego-ries including deacutecor cleanli-ness and staff attitudes along with a variety of tea-related tests such as appear-ance flavor and staff

knowledge

For example porcelain bone china or other glazed stone-ware is better for retaining heat and will garner a higher score than pots made from

aluminum pewter or enamel

Visit wwwteacouk or wwwafternoonteacouktea-guild-members or more infor-mation on membership and

more

Whatever your preference there is a style to suit all tastes For

all of its pleasantries and traditions afternoon tea is also big

business and recognition by The Tea Guild (founded in 1985 to

recognize and promote businesses dedicated to brewing and

serving tea) is an incentive Competition is stiff as tea rooms

across the United Kingdom go lsquotea cuprsquo to lsquotea cuprsquo for one of

the coveted Top Tea Places awards For 2013 the Goring Hotel

earned the top London Afternoon Tea award

I am not a Tea Guild expert nor am I a tea room expert of any

kind the criteria I use when visiting tea shops are far less so-

phisticated I look for just-right scones with fresh cream and

preserves and a selection of rich homemade tea cakes finger

sandwiches made with locally sourced ingredients and warm

and friendly service in a relaxing and charming setting

And letrsquos not forgeta perfectly brewed cup of tea

A hearty version of afternoon tea Riverview Guest House and Tea room Earith

6

Summer 2014

Tea Room Treasures of East Anglia

Tea Room Treasures

of East Anglia

Tea Notes Summer is in full swing and I cannot think of a better way to enjoy the warmer climate than sipping English Breakfast Tea and sampling Victorian Sponge Cake whilst lounging on sunlight terrace

Tea Room Treasures of East Angliarsquos summer issue features three happily situated tea rooms in our wonderful rustic and rural East Anglia with opportunities to enjoy the summer weather either indoors or out From elegant pink and white interiors to the country cottage charm of an English garden there is a tea room to fit almost every temperament and druthers

With the summer days growing longer and the schools soon to be out be sure to take time out of lifersquos busy schedule to enjoy a nice spot of tea and reacquaint yourself with one of Britainrsquos finest traditions

~CA Eccles

2

Inside this issue Tea Notes 2

Map of East Anglia 3

Afternoon Tea 5

Serendipity Cafe 7

Peacockrsquos Tea Room 9

Old Bridge Hotelhelliphelliphellip 11

Special Thanks 13

Summer Issue Preview 13

About the Authorhelliphellip 14

Image Credits

Image credits all images and content provided by CA Eccles unless other-wise indicated All works under cop-

yright restrictions

Front Enjoying tea in a classic tea set reading works by classicist writ-

ers on a warm summerrsquos day

Left Classic Afternoon Tea tray

Back A page from Dickens during

afternoon tea

copy CA Eccles 2014 All rights reserved

Summer 2014

ldquoThere are few hours in life more agreeable

than the hour dedicated to the ceremony

known as afternoon teardquo (Henry James

The Portrait of a Ladymdash1843-1916)

3

Tea Room Treasures of East Anglia

4

Summer 2014

Origins

Afternoon tea began in

the early nineteenth cen-

tury when only two

main meals--breakfast

and a late dinner--were

served Anna the 7th

Duchess of Bedford

complained of a ldquosinking

feelingrdquo in the late

afternoon and with

none of the current pomp

and ceremony was served

a pot of tea and a light

snack of sandwiches and

cake

ldquoTea to the English is really just a picnic indoorsrdquo Alice Walker (1944- )

Afternoon Tea A brief history What better way to experi-ence Great Britain than to participate in ldquoafternoon teardquo a British tradition that began in the early 19th century when a noble woman felt

hungry

Today the event is replete with pomp and ceremony with classic and specialty teas and scrumptious cakes and

sandwiches In England there is at least one pub in every village and the same almost holds true for tea rooms One can enjoy formal afternoon tea at high society establishments in London such as The Ritz or The Savoy or relax in a rural countryside atmosphere found in local villages throughout

the United Kingdom

Anna Maria Russell Duchess of Bedford (3 September 1783 ndash 3 July

1857) (courtesy Wikimedia Commons)

5

6 6 6

Tea Room Treasures of East Anglia

The Tea Room Awards Stiff Competition

The UK Tea and Infusions Association (formerly the UK Tea Council) is an inde-pendent body promoting tea

and its history

Under the Associationrsquos guid-ance tea experts covertly visit establishments and score them using sixteen different catego-ries including deacutecor cleanli-ness and staff attitudes along with a variety of tea-related tests such as appear-ance flavor and staff

knowledge

For example porcelain bone china or other glazed stone-ware is better for retaining heat and will garner a higher score than pots made from

aluminum pewter or enamel

Visit wwwteacouk or wwwafternoonteacouktea-guild-members or more infor-mation on membership and

more

Whatever your preference there is a style to suit all tastes For

all of its pleasantries and traditions afternoon tea is also big

business and recognition by The Tea Guild (founded in 1985 to

recognize and promote businesses dedicated to brewing and

serving tea) is an incentive Competition is stiff as tea rooms

across the United Kingdom go lsquotea cuprsquo to lsquotea cuprsquo for one of

the coveted Top Tea Places awards For 2013 the Goring Hotel

earned the top London Afternoon Tea award

I am not a Tea Guild expert nor am I a tea room expert of any

kind the criteria I use when visiting tea shops are far less so-

phisticated I look for just-right scones with fresh cream and

preserves and a selection of rich homemade tea cakes finger

sandwiches made with locally sourced ingredients and warm

and friendly service in a relaxing and charming setting

And letrsquos not forgeta perfectly brewed cup of tea

A hearty version of afternoon tea Riverview Guest House and Tea room Earith

6

Summer 2014

Tea Room Treasures

of East Anglia

Tea Notes Summer is in full swing and I cannot think of a better way to enjoy the warmer climate than sipping English Breakfast Tea and sampling Victorian Sponge Cake whilst lounging on sunlight terrace

Tea Room Treasures of East Angliarsquos summer issue features three happily situated tea rooms in our wonderful rustic and rural East Anglia with opportunities to enjoy the summer weather either indoors or out From elegant pink and white interiors to the country cottage charm of an English garden there is a tea room to fit almost every temperament and druthers

With the summer days growing longer and the schools soon to be out be sure to take time out of lifersquos busy schedule to enjoy a nice spot of tea and reacquaint yourself with one of Britainrsquos finest traditions

~CA Eccles

2

Inside this issue Tea Notes 2

Map of East Anglia 3

Afternoon Tea 5

Serendipity Cafe 7

Peacockrsquos Tea Room 9

Old Bridge Hotelhelliphelliphellip 11

Special Thanks 13

Summer Issue Preview 13

About the Authorhelliphellip 14

Image Credits

Image credits all images and content provided by CA Eccles unless other-wise indicated All works under cop-

yright restrictions

Front Enjoying tea in a classic tea set reading works by classicist writ-

ers on a warm summerrsquos day

Left Classic Afternoon Tea tray

Back A page from Dickens during

afternoon tea

copy CA Eccles 2014 All rights reserved

Summer 2014

ldquoThere are few hours in life more agreeable

than the hour dedicated to the ceremony

known as afternoon teardquo (Henry James

The Portrait of a Ladymdash1843-1916)

3

Tea Room Treasures of East Anglia

4

Summer 2014

Origins

Afternoon tea began in

the early nineteenth cen-

tury when only two

main meals--breakfast

and a late dinner--were

served Anna the 7th

Duchess of Bedford

complained of a ldquosinking

feelingrdquo in the late

afternoon and with

none of the current pomp

and ceremony was served

a pot of tea and a light

snack of sandwiches and

cake

ldquoTea to the English is really just a picnic indoorsrdquo Alice Walker (1944- )

Afternoon Tea A brief history What better way to experi-ence Great Britain than to participate in ldquoafternoon teardquo a British tradition that began in the early 19th century when a noble woman felt

hungry

Today the event is replete with pomp and ceremony with classic and specialty teas and scrumptious cakes and

sandwiches In England there is at least one pub in every village and the same almost holds true for tea rooms One can enjoy formal afternoon tea at high society establishments in London such as The Ritz or The Savoy or relax in a rural countryside atmosphere found in local villages throughout

the United Kingdom

Anna Maria Russell Duchess of Bedford (3 September 1783 ndash 3 July

1857) (courtesy Wikimedia Commons)

5

6 6 6

Tea Room Treasures of East Anglia

The Tea Room Awards Stiff Competition

The UK Tea and Infusions Association (formerly the UK Tea Council) is an inde-pendent body promoting tea

and its history

Under the Associationrsquos guid-ance tea experts covertly visit establishments and score them using sixteen different catego-ries including deacutecor cleanli-ness and staff attitudes along with a variety of tea-related tests such as appear-ance flavor and staff

knowledge

For example porcelain bone china or other glazed stone-ware is better for retaining heat and will garner a higher score than pots made from

aluminum pewter or enamel

Visit wwwteacouk or wwwafternoonteacouktea-guild-members or more infor-mation on membership and

more

Whatever your preference there is a style to suit all tastes For

all of its pleasantries and traditions afternoon tea is also big

business and recognition by The Tea Guild (founded in 1985 to

recognize and promote businesses dedicated to brewing and

serving tea) is an incentive Competition is stiff as tea rooms

across the United Kingdom go lsquotea cuprsquo to lsquotea cuprsquo for one of

the coveted Top Tea Places awards For 2013 the Goring Hotel

earned the top London Afternoon Tea award

I am not a Tea Guild expert nor am I a tea room expert of any

kind the criteria I use when visiting tea shops are far less so-

phisticated I look for just-right scones with fresh cream and

preserves and a selection of rich homemade tea cakes finger

sandwiches made with locally sourced ingredients and warm

and friendly service in a relaxing and charming setting

And letrsquos not forgeta perfectly brewed cup of tea

A hearty version of afternoon tea Riverview Guest House and Tea room Earith

6

Summer 2014

3

Tea Room Treasures of East Anglia

4

Summer 2014

Origins

Afternoon tea began in

the early nineteenth cen-

tury when only two

main meals--breakfast

and a late dinner--were

served Anna the 7th

Duchess of Bedford

complained of a ldquosinking

feelingrdquo in the late

afternoon and with

none of the current pomp

and ceremony was served

a pot of tea and a light

snack of sandwiches and

cake

ldquoTea to the English is really just a picnic indoorsrdquo Alice Walker (1944- )

Afternoon Tea A brief history What better way to experi-ence Great Britain than to participate in ldquoafternoon teardquo a British tradition that began in the early 19th century when a noble woman felt

hungry

Today the event is replete with pomp and ceremony with classic and specialty teas and scrumptious cakes and

sandwiches In England there is at least one pub in every village and the same almost holds true for tea rooms One can enjoy formal afternoon tea at high society establishments in London such as The Ritz or The Savoy or relax in a rural countryside atmosphere found in local villages throughout

the United Kingdom

Anna Maria Russell Duchess of Bedford (3 September 1783 ndash 3 July

1857) (courtesy Wikimedia Commons)

5

6 6 6

Tea Room Treasures of East Anglia

The Tea Room Awards Stiff Competition

The UK Tea and Infusions Association (formerly the UK Tea Council) is an inde-pendent body promoting tea

and its history

Under the Associationrsquos guid-ance tea experts covertly visit establishments and score them using sixteen different catego-ries including deacutecor cleanli-ness and staff attitudes along with a variety of tea-related tests such as appear-ance flavor and staff

knowledge

For example porcelain bone china or other glazed stone-ware is better for retaining heat and will garner a higher score than pots made from

aluminum pewter or enamel

Visit wwwteacouk or wwwafternoonteacouktea-guild-members or more infor-mation on membership and

more

Whatever your preference there is a style to suit all tastes For

all of its pleasantries and traditions afternoon tea is also big

business and recognition by The Tea Guild (founded in 1985 to

recognize and promote businesses dedicated to brewing and

serving tea) is an incentive Competition is stiff as tea rooms

across the United Kingdom go lsquotea cuprsquo to lsquotea cuprsquo for one of

the coveted Top Tea Places awards For 2013 the Goring Hotel

earned the top London Afternoon Tea award

I am not a Tea Guild expert nor am I a tea room expert of any

kind the criteria I use when visiting tea shops are far less so-

phisticated I look for just-right scones with fresh cream and

preserves and a selection of rich homemade tea cakes finger

sandwiches made with locally sourced ingredients and warm

and friendly service in a relaxing and charming setting

And letrsquos not forgeta perfectly brewed cup of tea

A hearty version of afternoon tea Riverview Guest House and Tea room Earith

6

Summer 2014

4

Summer 2014

Origins

Afternoon tea began in

the early nineteenth cen-

tury when only two

main meals--breakfast

and a late dinner--were

served Anna the 7th

Duchess of Bedford

complained of a ldquosinking

feelingrdquo in the late

afternoon and with

none of the current pomp

and ceremony was served

a pot of tea and a light

snack of sandwiches and

cake

ldquoTea to the English is really just a picnic indoorsrdquo Alice Walker (1944- )

Afternoon Tea A brief history What better way to experi-ence Great Britain than to participate in ldquoafternoon teardquo a British tradition that began in the early 19th century when a noble woman felt

hungry

Today the event is replete with pomp and ceremony with classic and specialty teas and scrumptious cakes and

sandwiches In England there is at least one pub in every village and the same almost holds true for tea rooms One can enjoy formal afternoon tea at high society establishments in London such as The Ritz or The Savoy or relax in a rural countryside atmosphere found in local villages throughout

the United Kingdom

Anna Maria Russell Duchess of Bedford (3 September 1783 ndash 3 July

1857) (courtesy Wikimedia Commons)

5

6 6 6

Tea Room Treasures of East Anglia

The Tea Room Awards Stiff Competition

The UK Tea and Infusions Association (formerly the UK Tea Council) is an inde-pendent body promoting tea

and its history

Under the Associationrsquos guid-ance tea experts covertly visit establishments and score them using sixteen different catego-ries including deacutecor cleanli-ness and staff attitudes along with a variety of tea-related tests such as appear-ance flavor and staff

knowledge

For example porcelain bone china or other glazed stone-ware is better for retaining heat and will garner a higher score than pots made from

aluminum pewter or enamel

Visit wwwteacouk or wwwafternoonteacouktea-guild-members or more infor-mation on membership and

more

Whatever your preference there is a style to suit all tastes For

all of its pleasantries and traditions afternoon tea is also big

business and recognition by The Tea Guild (founded in 1985 to

recognize and promote businesses dedicated to brewing and

serving tea) is an incentive Competition is stiff as tea rooms

across the United Kingdom go lsquotea cuprsquo to lsquotea cuprsquo for one of

the coveted Top Tea Places awards For 2013 the Goring Hotel

earned the top London Afternoon Tea award

I am not a Tea Guild expert nor am I a tea room expert of any

kind the criteria I use when visiting tea shops are far less so-

phisticated I look for just-right scones with fresh cream and

preserves and a selection of rich homemade tea cakes finger

sandwiches made with locally sourced ingredients and warm

and friendly service in a relaxing and charming setting

And letrsquos not forgeta perfectly brewed cup of tea

A hearty version of afternoon tea Riverview Guest House and Tea room Earith

6

Summer 2014

Origins

Afternoon tea began in

the early nineteenth cen-

tury when only two

main meals--breakfast

and a late dinner--were

served Anna the 7th

Duchess of Bedford

complained of a ldquosinking

feelingrdquo in the late

afternoon and with

none of the current pomp

and ceremony was served

a pot of tea and a light

snack of sandwiches and

cake

ldquoTea to the English is really just a picnic indoorsrdquo Alice Walker (1944- )

Afternoon Tea A brief history What better way to experi-ence Great Britain than to participate in ldquoafternoon teardquo a British tradition that began in the early 19th century when a noble woman felt

hungry

Today the event is replete with pomp and ceremony with classic and specialty teas and scrumptious cakes and

sandwiches In England there is at least one pub in every village and the same almost holds true for tea rooms One can enjoy formal afternoon tea at high society establishments in London such as The Ritz or The Savoy or relax in a rural countryside atmosphere found in local villages throughout

the United Kingdom

Anna Maria Russell Duchess of Bedford (3 September 1783 ndash 3 July

1857) (courtesy Wikimedia Commons)

5

6 6 6

Tea Room Treasures of East Anglia

The Tea Room Awards Stiff Competition

The UK Tea and Infusions Association (formerly the UK Tea Council) is an inde-pendent body promoting tea

and its history

Under the Associationrsquos guid-ance tea experts covertly visit establishments and score them using sixteen different catego-ries including deacutecor cleanli-ness and staff attitudes along with a variety of tea-related tests such as appear-ance flavor and staff

knowledge

For example porcelain bone china or other glazed stone-ware is better for retaining heat and will garner a higher score than pots made from

aluminum pewter or enamel

Visit wwwteacouk or wwwafternoonteacouktea-guild-members or more infor-mation on membership and

more

Whatever your preference there is a style to suit all tastes For

all of its pleasantries and traditions afternoon tea is also big

business and recognition by The Tea Guild (founded in 1985 to

recognize and promote businesses dedicated to brewing and

serving tea) is an incentive Competition is stiff as tea rooms

across the United Kingdom go lsquotea cuprsquo to lsquotea cuprsquo for one of

the coveted Top Tea Places awards For 2013 the Goring Hotel

earned the top London Afternoon Tea award

I am not a Tea Guild expert nor am I a tea room expert of any

kind the criteria I use when visiting tea shops are far less so-

phisticated I look for just-right scones with fresh cream and

preserves and a selection of rich homemade tea cakes finger

sandwiches made with locally sourced ingredients and warm

and friendly service in a relaxing and charming setting

And letrsquos not forgeta perfectly brewed cup of tea

A hearty version of afternoon tea Riverview Guest House and Tea room Earith

6

Summer 2014

The Tea Room Awards Stiff Competition

The UK Tea and Infusions Association (formerly the UK Tea Council) is an inde-pendent body promoting tea

and its history

Under the Associationrsquos guid-ance tea experts covertly visit establishments and score them using sixteen different catego-ries including deacutecor cleanli-ness and staff attitudes along with a variety of tea-related tests such as appear-ance flavor and staff

knowledge

For example porcelain bone china or other glazed stone-ware is better for retaining heat and will garner a higher score than pots made from

aluminum pewter or enamel

Visit wwwteacouk or wwwafternoonteacouktea-guild-members or more infor-mation on membership and

more

Whatever your preference there is a style to suit all tastes For

all of its pleasantries and traditions afternoon tea is also big

business and recognition by The Tea Guild (founded in 1985 to

recognize and promote businesses dedicated to brewing and

serving tea) is an incentive Competition is stiff as tea rooms

across the United Kingdom go lsquotea cuprsquo to lsquotea cuprsquo for one of

the coveted Top Tea Places awards For 2013 the Goring Hotel

earned the top London Afternoon Tea award

I am not a Tea Guild expert nor am I a tea room expert of any

kind the criteria I use when visiting tea shops are far less so-

phisticated I look for just-right scones with fresh cream and

preserves and a selection of rich homemade tea cakes finger

sandwiches made with locally sourced ingredients and warm

and friendly service in a relaxing and charming setting

And letrsquos not forgeta perfectly brewed cup of tea

A hearty version of afternoon tea Riverview Guest House and Tea room Earith

6

Summer 2014

Menu

The menu is an elegant yet simple blend of fresh-baked pastries sand-wiches and Paninis and hot jacket potatoes Why not try a fruit smoothie to start your day Children are very welcome with a special tea room table and menu to satisfy all tykes

Hours______

MonSat 900a-500p

Sun 1000a-400p

Parking_____

There is a small car park in front of the building but better parking can be found on the nearby

side streets

Contact_____

Tel 01480 350863 Facebook wwwfacebookcomserendipitygodmanches-ter

Serendipity Coffee House (Godmanchester)

One of East Angliarsquos newest editions is Serendipity Coffee House is nestled up against the town of Huntingdon in historic Godmanchester where the former rsquoCrazy Glazyrsquo Tea room was located From the first moment you enter Serendipity lives up to its name offering a fortuitous hap-penstance The tea roomrsquos interior presents a soothing

blend of simple elegance and a dash of delicacy that brings a sense a calm The carefully selected pink highlights imbue a wistful atmosphere but fear not

gentlemen they are understated

The staff are warm and friendlymdasha perfect match for the calming interiormdashand are eager to ensure your experience

is all you hoped it would be

43 Cambridge Street Godmanchester PE292AY

I wanted to experience the joys of Afternoon Tea platter This must be ordered in advance as staff are careful to ensure preferences and allergy concerns are addressed I ordered the day before placing my sandwich scone and tea cake preferences When I arrived I had a table specially reserved The service begins with a pot of piping hot Earl Gray and continues with a tier-full of a variety of sandwiches a hearty sultana scone and lemon sponge and red velvet cakes The portions were perfect

making this a wonderfully light yet satisfying mid-day meal

7

Tea Room Treasures of East Anglia

ldquoThe light and airy deacutecor really set the tone for a sumptuous experiencerdquo

A mini chocolate cupcake lemon sponge and red velvet cake (above)

Delicate pink centerpieces (right)

8

Summer 2014

Menu

Peacocks serves up a varie-

ty of snacks creamed teas

and hot meals from light

lunches salads and sand-

wiches to apple pea and

mint soup and beef bour-

guignon And of course a

fine selection of specialty

cakes and set teas

Hours______

Mon-Tues Closed

Wed-Sun 1030a-430p

Summer hours vary check

the website for special

times

Parking_____

Some free parking is avail-able in front and near the tea room or follow signs for Ship Lane car park

Contact_____

Tel 013533661100 Website http

wwwpeacockstearoomco

uk

Email peacock-

steafastmailcouk

Peacockrsquos Tea Room (Ely)

Peacockrsquos is tucked away along a

quiet side street of the popular

market town of Ely and over-

looks the River Great Ouse The

tea room and B amp B is warm and

inviting with a meacutelange of tea

crockery and all things tea

adorning the interior

During the summer the outdoor

terrace is awash with yellow

roses and lush vegetation making

for a truly British tea experience

But this is a tea room with a

twist as the ownerrsquos have a great

sense of humour I recommend

giving the first page a good read

paying attention to the footnotes

(the ldquosmall printrdquo) Revelry aside

Peacockrsquos is a charming tea room

with exceptionally unique offer-

ings Make it your first stop of

the day

10

The Chocolate Dream Cream Tea ensemble looked heavenly but I opted for a classic Devon creamed tea with two fruit scones and I added a slice of lemon and lavender cake I was adventurous selecting the ldquoSherlock Holmesrdquo tea a unique blend of Earl Gray and Lapsang souchong also known as ldquosmoked teardquo The jury is still out on if this ldquoelementaryrdquo tea will unseat my favorite classic but it was definitely a

flavorful and fun experience

65 Waterside Ely Cambridgeshire CB7 4AU

9

Tea Room Treasures of East Anglia

ldquoThe light and airy deacutecor really set the tone for a sumptuous experiencerdquo

A mini chocolate cupcake lemon sponge and red velvet cake (above)

Delicate pink centerpieces (right)

8

Summer 2014

Menu

Peacocks serves up a varie-

ty of snacks creamed teas

and hot meals from light

lunches salads and sand-

wiches to apple pea and

mint soup and beef bour-

guignon And of course a

fine selection of specialty

cakes and set teas

Hours______

Mon-Tues Closed

Wed-Sun 1030a-430p

Summer hours vary check

the website for special

times

Parking_____

Some free parking is avail-able in front and near the tea room or follow signs for Ship Lane car park

Contact_____

Tel 013533661100 Website http

wwwpeacockstearoomco

uk

Email peacock-

steafastmailcouk

Peacockrsquos Tea Room (Ely)

Peacockrsquos is tucked away along a

quiet side street of the popular

market town of Ely and over-

looks the River Great Ouse The

tea room and B amp B is warm and

inviting with a meacutelange of tea

crockery and all things tea

adorning the interior

During the summer the outdoor

terrace is awash with yellow

roses and lush vegetation making

for a truly British tea experience

But this is a tea room with a

twist as the ownerrsquos have a great

sense of humour I recommend

giving the first page a good read

paying attention to the footnotes

(the ldquosmall printrdquo) Revelry aside

Peacockrsquos is a charming tea room

with exceptionally unique offer-

ings Make it your first stop of

the day

10

The Chocolate Dream Cream Tea ensemble looked heavenly but I opted for a classic Devon creamed tea with two fruit scones and I added a slice of lemon and lavender cake I was adventurous selecting the ldquoSherlock Holmesrdquo tea a unique blend of Earl Gray and Lapsang souchong also known as ldquosmoked teardquo The jury is still out on if this ldquoelementaryrdquo tea will unseat my favorite classic but it was definitely a

flavorful and fun experience

65 Waterside Ely Cambridgeshire CB7 4AU

9

Tea Room Treasures of East Anglia

Menu

Peacocks serves up a varie-

ty of snacks creamed teas

and hot meals from light

lunches salads and sand-

wiches to apple pea and

mint soup and beef bour-

guignon And of course a

fine selection of specialty

cakes and set teas

Hours______

Mon-Tues Closed

Wed-Sun 1030a-430p

Summer hours vary check

the website for special

times

Parking_____

Some free parking is avail-able in front and near the tea room or follow signs for Ship Lane car park

Contact_____

Tel 013533661100 Website http

wwwpeacockstearoomco

uk

Email peacock-

steafastmailcouk

Peacockrsquos Tea Room (Ely)

Peacockrsquos is tucked away along a

quiet side street of the popular

market town of Ely and over-

looks the River Great Ouse The

tea room and B amp B is warm and

inviting with a meacutelange of tea

crockery and all things tea

adorning the interior

During the summer the outdoor

terrace is awash with yellow

roses and lush vegetation making

for a truly British tea experience

But this is a tea room with a

twist as the ownerrsquos have a great

sense of humour I recommend

giving the first page a good read

paying attention to the footnotes

(the ldquosmall printrdquo) Revelry aside

Peacockrsquos is a charming tea room

with exceptionally unique offer-

ings Make it your first stop of

the day

10

The Chocolate Dream Cream Tea ensemble looked heavenly but I opted for a classic Devon creamed tea with two fruit scones and I added a slice of lemon and lavender cake I was adventurous selecting the ldquoSherlock Holmesrdquo tea a unique blend of Earl Gray and Lapsang souchong also known as ldquosmoked teardquo The jury is still out on if this ldquoelementaryrdquo tea will unseat my favorite classic but it was definitely a

flavorful and fun experience

65 Waterside Ely Cambridgeshire CB7 4AU

9

Tea Room Treasures of East Anglia

Mismatched crockery is the norm (top) an old bicycle with overgrown vines (above)

Devon creamed tea with two freshly

made fruit scones

10

Summer 2014

Menu The restaurant at the Old Bridge is a full-service res-taurant with all day eating for small and large parties The menu is quite extensive from pudding and cheese to whole grilled lemon sole with steamed mussels Scones and millionaire shortbread are actually only fresh-baked on Sun-day for lunch There is no set ldquoafternoon teardquo menu but with a range of op-tions you can certainly

build your own

Hours______

The Terrace Restaurant is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner hours but can be closed for special events The Bar is also open long hours and meals can be ordered from the menu and taken in the

Bar

Parking_____

The Old Bridge Hotel has private off-street parking behind the hotel off Ring Road in Huntingdon

Contact_____

Tel 01480 424300 Website http

wwwhuntsbridgecom

Email

oldbridgehuntsbridgeco

uk

Old Bridge Hotel (Huntingdon)

Coming around Huntingdons Ring Road to the old bridge one is faced with the grandeur of vine-covered Old Bridge Hotel posi-tioned at the bridgehead of the medieval stone bridge crossing the River Great Ouse The structure now home to the Old Bridge Hotel was built in the 17th century and served as a bank before its conversion to a

hotel In 1969 it became part of the Poste Hotels and today the Old Bridge Hotel is a member of Huntsbridge family which in-cludes The Pheasant at Keystone While not a rsquotea roomrsquo in the classic sense The Terrace at the Old Bridge Hotel does serve up hearty lunches with specially

prepared scones on Sundays

12

I took the rsquoDIYrsquo approach to afternoon tea ordering a thick slice of ba-nana nut breadmdashthe restaurantrsquos rsquocake of the dayrsquomdashand a hearty por-tion of richly flavored (no pun intended) millionaire shortbread to ac-company the toasty warm sultana scone and pot of Earl Gray The healthy portion of nuts added a little kick to the banana nut bread and the feather-light scone was a melt-in-your-mouth experience But it was the gooey caramel and thick layer of dark chocolate smothering a

butter-rich shortbread cookie that stole the show

1 High Street Huntingdon CAMBS PE29 3TQ

11

Tea Room Treasures of East Anglia

Menu The restaurant at the Old Bridge is a full-service res-taurant with all day eating for small and large parties The menu is quite extensive from pudding and cheese to whole grilled lemon sole with steamed mussels Scones and millionaire shortbread are actually only fresh-baked on Sun-day for lunch There is no set ldquoafternoon teardquo menu but with a range of op-tions you can certainly

build your own

Hours______

The Terrace Restaurant is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner hours but can be closed for special events The Bar is also open long hours and meals can be ordered from the menu and taken in the

Bar

Parking_____

The Old Bridge Hotel has private off-street parking behind the hotel off Ring Road in Huntingdon

Contact_____

Tel 01480 424300 Website http

wwwhuntsbridgecom

Email

oldbridgehuntsbridgeco

uk

Old Bridge Hotel (Huntingdon)

Coming around Huntingdons Ring Road to the old bridge one is faced with the grandeur of vine-covered Old Bridge Hotel posi-tioned at the bridgehead of the medieval stone bridge crossing the River Great Ouse The structure now home to the Old Bridge Hotel was built in the 17th century and served as a bank before its conversion to a

hotel In 1969 it became part of the Poste Hotels and today the Old Bridge Hotel is a member of Huntsbridge family which in-cludes The Pheasant at Keystone While not a rsquotea roomrsquo in the classic sense The Terrace at the Old Bridge Hotel does serve up hearty lunches with specially

prepared scones on Sundays

12

I took the rsquoDIYrsquo approach to afternoon tea ordering a thick slice of ba-nana nut breadmdashthe restaurantrsquos rsquocake of the dayrsquomdashand a hearty por-tion of richly flavored (no pun intended) millionaire shortbread to ac-company the toasty warm sultana scone and pot of Earl Gray The healthy portion of nuts added a little kick to the banana nut bread and the feather-light scone was a melt-in-your-mouth experience But it was the gooey caramel and thick layer of dark chocolate smothering a

butter-rich shortbread cookie that stole the show

1 High Street Huntingdon CAMBS PE29 3TQ

11

Tea Room Treasures of East Anglia

ldquoLightly dusted with confectionrsquos sugar this scone was a melt-in-your-mouth experiencerdquo

13

Millionaire Shortbread (above) a nice

DIY afternoon tea (right)

12

Summer 2014

The next ldquoTea Room Treasures of East Angliardquo issue will be released in June and will feature the following tea room treas-ures Unique Tea Room (Castle Rising) charming inside and out a

true gem of a tea room Glebe Farm (Kettering) providing spectacular views of East

Angliarsquos rolling hills Woodfordrsquos Mill (Woodford) offers ambiance and top chef

dining all under one historic roof

Autumn Issue Preview

A special thanks to owners Zyllah Stewart (Serendipity

Cafeacute) George and Rachel Peacock (Peacockrsquos Tea Room)

and John Hoskins (Old Bridge Hotel) for granting me

permission to highlight their establishments

Special Thanks

13

Tea Room Treasures of East Anglia

CA Eccles WriterPhotographer

Member Royal Photographic Society

ArchaeologyHeritage Group

Travel Group

DocumentaryVideo Journalism

Channel 7 Film Production Company

Set Photographer

PADI-certified SCUBA Diver

Earth is home to billions of people with rich cultures traditions histories and perspectives Writer and photographer Cindy A Eccles (aka CA Eccles) seeks to capture these and other wonders of life through both word and sight Her goal bridge geographic and cultural divides to build trust and tolerance so that we can all appreciate and celebrate our uniqueness and

commonalities with mutual respect

Cindy has advanced degrees in archaeologyanthropology and international relations and a post-graduate degree in journalism She has published both fiction and non-fiction works including former Senator William Coxonrsquos papers (1930-1960) on his pursuits to understand and document petroglyphs Cindy also writes for the Heritage Daily magazine on issues

concerning risks to world heritage

Separately Cindy contributes to travel magazines and news outlets on a variety of travel-related topics You can also follow her travel blogmdashldquoON the Beaten Pathrdquomdashhighlighting travel experiences to lesser known gems within already popular tourist destinations One does not need to travel ldquooff the beaten pathrdquo

to have a memorable and unique experience

Cindy is also a professional photographer with interests in the landscape travel and heritage genres Images from her series on life in Sanliurfa Turkey was exhibited by the Los Angeles Pho-to Festival in April and Cindyrsquos images and articles have been published by the Royal Photographic Society heritage and trav-

el magazines

You can keep up with Cindyrsquos adventures and view her latest photo galleries by visiting wwwcaecclescom and she can be

reached by email at caecclescaecclescom

CindyEccles

CA Eccles

14

Summer 2014

wwwpixotocomcaeccles

The next ldquoTea Room Treasures of East Angliardquo issue will be released in June and will feature the following tea room treas-ures Unique Tea Room (Castle Rising) charming inside and out a

true gem of a tea room Glebe Farm (Kettering) providing spectacular views of East

Angliarsquos rolling hills Woodfordrsquos Mill (Woodford) offers ambiance and top chef

dining all under one historic roof

Autumn Issue Preview

A special thanks to owners Zyllah Stewart (Serendipity

Cafeacute) George and Rachel Peacock (Peacockrsquos Tea Room)

and John Hoskins (Old Bridge Hotel) for granting me

permission to highlight their establishments

Special Thanks

13

Tea Room Treasures of East Anglia

CA Eccles WriterPhotographer

Member Royal Photographic Society

ArchaeologyHeritage Group

Travel Group

DocumentaryVideo Journalism

Channel 7 Film Production Company

Set Photographer

PADI-certified SCUBA Diver

Earth is home to billions of people with rich cultures traditions histories and perspectives Writer and photographer Cindy A Eccles (aka CA Eccles) seeks to capture these and other wonders of life through both word and sight Her goal bridge geographic and cultural divides to build trust and tolerance so that we can all appreciate and celebrate our uniqueness and

commonalities with mutual respect

Cindy has advanced degrees in archaeologyanthropology and international relations and a post-graduate degree in journalism She has published both fiction and non-fiction works including former Senator William Coxonrsquos papers (1930-1960) on his pursuits to understand and document petroglyphs Cindy also writes for the Heritage Daily magazine on issues

concerning risks to world heritage

Separately Cindy contributes to travel magazines and news outlets on a variety of travel-related topics You can also follow her travel blogmdashldquoON the Beaten Pathrdquomdashhighlighting travel experiences to lesser known gems within already popular tourist destinations One does not need to travel ldquooff the beaten pathrdquo

to have a memorable and unique experience

Cindy is also a professional photographer with interests in the landscape travel and heritage genres Images from her series on life in Sanliurfa Turkey was exhibited by the Los Angeles Pho-to Festival in April and Cindyrsquos images and articles have been published by the Royal Photographic Society heritage and trav-

el magazines

You can keep up with Cindyrsquos adventures and view her latest photo galleries by visiting wwwcaecclescom and she can be

reached by email at caecclescaecclescom

CindyEccles

CA Eccles

14

Summer 2014

wwwpixotocomcaeccles

CA Eccles WriterPhotographer

Member Royal Photographic Society

ArchaeologyHeritage Group

Travel Group

DocumentaryVideo Journalism

Channel 7 Film Production Company

Set Photographer

PADI-certified SCUBA Diver

Earth is home to billions of people with rich cultures traditions histories and perspectives Writer and photographer Cindy A Eccles (aka CA Eccles) seeks to capture these and other wonders of life through both word and sight Her goal bridge geographic and cultural divides to build trust and tolerance so that we can all appreciate and celebrate our uniqueness and

commonalities with mutual respect

Cindy has advanced degrees in archaeologyanthropology and international relations and a post-graduate degree in journalism She has published both fiction and non-fiction works including former Senator William Coxonrsquos papers (1930-1960) on his pursuits to understand and document petroglyphs Cindy also writes for the Heritage Daily magazine on issues

concerning risks to world heritage

Separately Cindy contributes to travel magazines and news outlets on a variety of travel-related topics You can also follow her travel blogmdashldquoON the Beaten Pathrdquomdashhighlighting travel experiences to lesser known gems within already popular tourist destinations One does not need to travel ldquooff the beaten pathrdquo

to have a memorable and unique experience

Cindy is also a professional photographer with interests in the landscape travel and heritage genres Images from her series on life in Sanliurfa Turkey was exhibited by the Los Angeles Pho-to Festival in April and Cindyrsquos images and articles have been published by the Royal Photographic Society heritage and trav-

el magazines

You can keep up with Cindyrsquos adventures and view her latest photo galleries by visiting wwwcaecclescom and she can be

reached by email at caecclescaecclescom

CindyEccles

CA Eccles

14

Summer 2014

wwwpixotocomcaeccles