WHAT
Tea Room
WHERE
M5, Junction 22; 13 minutes
WHEN
Weds-Sun 10am–4pm
Dog friendly
Vegetarian or vegan options
In a 15th-century former Almshouse on Axbridge's medieval square, this tea shop radiates charm. Step into the Grade II-listed building for lusty breakfasts, made-to-order sandwiches and paninis (try the brie, cranberry and walnut), cream teas with homemade scones and wickedly good hot chocolate made with real Belgian chocolate. Cakes are freshly-baked daily and include all the favourites - coffee and walnut, carrot, lemon drizzle, chocolate. They also stock a tempting range of gifts (and scarves) and local produce, so leave time to browse.
Venture up the spiral staircase to find comfy sofas around a wood-burner in the beams, while outside the grapevine-clad, walled courtyard is an amazing suntrap with a real Mediterranean feel.
Dogs are so welcome they get sausages cooked especially for them. If they or their human companions need to run free, the nearby reservoir provides great scenery for walks and the staggering Cheddar Gorge is minutes down the road. Axbridge is little known and very special.
The Almshouse Tea Shop,
The Square,
Axbridge,
BS26, 2AR
Tel - 01934 733720
Web - www.thealmshouseteashop.co.uk
Buy The Extra Mile Guide
The Extra Mile: Delicious Alternatives to Motorway Services is your essential glovebox guide to good food on the move. The guidebook is a great gift for motorists and foodies who prefer to avoid motorway services and boring, big-brand food. Find independent cafes, pubs, local coffee and tea shops and lovely farm shops near motorway junctions and main roads. To improve your journey, support small businesses and discover real local flavours, order your copy today (edition 4 published March 2023 and available now).
