ELSIE'S VINTAGE TEA ROOM

A treasure trove of vintage foodness!

If there’s anywhere you’d expect to find a vintage tearoom, the quiet village of Nassington near Oundle would surely be a worthy contender.

This quaint and picturesque location is home to Elsie’s, a 1950s-themed tearoom. And it really is like stepping back in time into your ancestors’ living room as soon as you walk through the doors.

But we’re here to talk food, of course – and the pictures of the inside of this hidden gem speak for themselves.

The menu offers a wide selection of lunchtime treats, from sandwiches to jacket potatoes. A cabinet displaying a collection of mouth-watering cakes sits near the till – this is a tearoom, so it wouldn’t be complete without a slice of cake.

Before arriving with a friend to check it out, I preordered an Elsie’s afternoon tea – booking is essential for this as everything is made fresh and from scratch. The portions were small and dainty, but it was very filling and we left feeling very satisfied.

Alongside the traditional sandwiches, we each had a scone with jam and clotted cream, followed by a selection of mini cakes and desserts to finish. It was all served up on colourful vintage china - a pot of tea covered in a knitted tea cosy completed the picture. I truly felt like I was sitting in someone’s house.

The couple who run the tearoom were more than happy to chat about the café and take pictures of us outside. One thing is for sure – Elsie’s is an experience not to be missed. And repeated.

Elsie’s Vintage Tea Room is open on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. You can drop in, but booking is essential if you want a spot of afternoon tea. Call 01780 783313.

Kelly Jackson