The Bridge Tea Rooms: Unchanged Since Victorian Times

The Bridge Tea Rooms in Bradford-on-Avon is unchanged since Victorian times.

Housed in a former blacksmith’s cottage dating from 1502, the famous tea room is decorated throughout.

The place positively oozes atmosphere, and the classical music playing gently in the background sets a tranquil tone.

The building has a long history - it was originally built as a single-story cottage and it had a second level added in 1675.

It has been a home and workshop of a tailor, and then a local blacksmith ran his business from the forge next door, and for some time, a sweet shop and antique shop.

Converted to a tea rooms in 1989 Roy and Alison Hayward took over the business in 2006.

Today, The Bridge Tea Rooms offers the very best in traditionally British afternoon tea, lunches, and light meals throughout the day.

With delicate bone china, the finest leaf teas, and friendly staff in Victorian costumes serving homemade cakes, pastries and sandwiches, The Bridge Tea Rooms offers a quintessentially English tea room experience.

According to Visit Wiltshire, it was described as 'near perfect' by the prestigious UK Tea Guild.

Is the tea room haunted

With such an interesting past, you would like to think so… And it seems it may be.

According to their official website, in China, it’s referred to as ‘the ghost house’.

Apparently, a few years back a customer who was a medium said they, ‘could sense a presence’, albeit one with a happy feel to it.

Other customers have mentioned seeing a figure of a woman out of the corner of their eyes, dressed in crinoline and rushing around busily.

A recent paranormal investigate reported some unexplained readings and a closeness in the environment during the visit, creating more questions than answers.

The tea room has lovely reviews on TripAdvisor, one recent customer said: “My daughter and I visited Bradford on Avon for the day and happened upon this charming, historic tea room.

”We hadn't booked but the manager greeted us warmly and led us upstairs to what I think was the best table in the house (the restaurant was busy too).

”I had the Empire High Tea and my daughter the hazelnut coffee cake - all absolutely scrumptious!

Another person added: “We're big afternoon tea fans and The Bridge Tea room did not disappoint.

”Sandwiches could do with more generous fillings but the fresh cream cakes were to die for! Would return for the cakes alone. Hats off to the baker. Definitely worth a visit.”

According to English Heritage, tea rooms first appeared in England in the 18th century. The first tea room, Twinings, has stood in the same spot for over 300 years.

Once the reserve of the rich, tea was popularised by Catherine of Braganza, Queen Consort of Charles II.

It had previously been used as a medicinal drink, but Catherine made it her beverage of choice - and it soon became a court favourite.

Initially, due to the high tax on tea, only the richest could afford it.

And when a spoonful of sugar was introduced, it became even more exclusive.

But the British bias for a brew soon trickled down to the lower classes, so it was smuggled into the country.

Only in 1783, when William Pitt the Younger became Prime Minister, was the tea tax slashed, and the masses could finally appease their craving for a cuppa.

English Heritage says The Bridge Tea Rooms is one of the oldest in England that is still in use today.

It’s situated along the tranquil banks of the River Avon, Bradford on Avon in Wiltshire - a hidden gem with stunning architecture.

Crossing the iconic town bridge is like stepping into a living painting.

Dating back to the 13th century, the bridge's pointed arches and timeless beauty make it a favourite spot for locals and visitors alike.

The view from the bridge is postcard-perfect, with the river gently flowing beneath and reflections of centuries-old buildings shimmering on the water's surface.

The Avon and Kennet Canal adds another layer to Bradford on Avon's charm.

Take a leisurely stroll along the towpath, and you'll be treated to scenic views of the canal, surrounded by lush greenery and historic structures.

Surrounded by picturesque countryside, Bradford on Avon is a gateway to natural beauty.

Take a stroll along the riverbanks, explore the nearby meadows, or embark on a canal-side walk.

The town's setting is a perfect blend of history and nature, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both tranquility and exploration.

If you are a keen foodie, there’s a whole host of cafes, restaurants, and bars for wining and dining, including Timbrel’s Yard, The Dandylion, Ravello, The Bunch of Grapes, and Pablo’s Bistro.

If you’d like to stay for the weekend, it offers plenty of hospitality from local pubs and bars to award-winning hotels.

If you’d like to visit The Bridge Tea Room, the address is: 24a Bridge St, Bradford-on-Avon BA15 1B.

Today, we might be more inclined to have a mug of tea and a biscuit at home.

But if you’d like to experience the refinement of afternoon tea in a historical setting, look no further than the Bridge Tea Rooms.

The tea room has their one website and social media handles that you can contact if you’d like to book a table.

It’s a lovely place to visit and we highly recommend that you add it to your itinerary for when your next trip to Wiltshire!

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