HOW come we hadn't visited this venue before? Has it been around for some time? Perhaps having to run the gauntlet of sweets from by-gone days and an array of teddy bears to reach the stairs had put us off in the past?

Once aloft, you encounter a 'little quiet corner' as I overheard one snacker proclaim on arrival. We were lucky to secure the last of the six tables.

Simple decor sets off exposed beams and wooden uprights. The menu says the property dates back to the 15th century and once belonged to a sea captain, hence the prow from a ship that surmounts the entrance door.

This is not a venue for the hearty eater. In fact, it is a genuine snack spot with scones, teacakes, cakes and biscuits being the staple fare. A specials board offered hot cross buns (£1.25), hot chocolate fudge cake with cream or ice-cream (£2.75) and sandwiches at £2.95.

Ann chose a toasted teacake (£1.25) while I asked for cinnamon toast (£1.50). Expecting bread toasted with cinnamon butter applied, I was quite surprised to be given slices of toasted cinnamon and fruit loaf which was jolly good.

Our pot of tea (£2.30) was very strong but a jug (well actually it was a small teapot) of hot water was produced without fuss.

The china bore the Teddy Bear Tearooms' motif and tables had small vases of fresh freesias.

Full marks to the two pleasant young assistants who ran up and down the stairs to the kitchen and were quick to clear tables. They were even able to confirm that the background music was the Andrew Sisters. Now that took me back!

Before we left the shop we were tempted by cinder toffee or black bullets but good sense prevailed!

Updated: 09:02 Saturday, April 13, 2002