There is one particular leisure activity that is searched for above all, and that is the opportunity to enjoy something quintessentially English - the cream tea. Home made scones fresh from the oven, oodles of raspberry jam and piles of whipped cream on top make the food part of your "cream tea" something special. These days a wide range of teas can be selected, but few beat the ordinary "English Breakfast tea" as it is called. First the large teapot should be warmed by swilling a little boiled water in the bottom of it. Then the tea leaves (or if you must - the tea bags) are placed in the bottom of the tea pot and the pot is filled with freshly boiled water. The teapot is left for a few minutes for the tea to brew. Then a little milk is poured into the bottom of your bone china cup followed by the freshly made tea. There is nothing like it. A second pot of boiled water placed by the teapot is used to top of the tea until you have had your 2 or three cups of tea.
In Ely, Cambridgeshire, George Peacock and Rachel Lemkov have opened a tea shop that offers this special soothing and timeless experience in their newly furbished restaurant by the river within easy walking distance of Ely railway station.
George's skills acquired as a lawyer soothe the customers with enthusiastic words of welcome and his experienced hands have permeated the spacious restaurant with critical touches that stem from his real understanding of the need for fine detail. Rachel's culinary skills fill the menu with homemade scones and cakes that are packed with flavor no stinted ingredients here. Her knowledge of antiques ensures an environment graced with the usually elusive qualities of the best of Victorian gentility ranging from the lace table cloths and the finest bone china to decorous black and white portraits of people in dated costumes taking tea.
Catering for local people and visitors world-wide, their menu offers all that you need for a light lunch and morning and afternoon tea. Drinks include traditional, flavored, and herbal teas as well as Oolongs (semi-fermented teas known for their healthy qualities). There is also a range of decaffeinated and filter coffees, soft drinks and milkshakes available. A variety of salads and sandwiches are served and range from smoked salmon to brie and cranberry sauce.
The details in the menu listings provide a mine of information for the specialists in beverages and foods and for those who are interested in gardening, the property boasts a special moss garden to view.
