St Neots vintage tea room described as 'a real gem' closes doors to customers

A much-loved tearoom in St Neots has closed its doors to customers. Betty Bumbles Vintage Tea Rooms, on Market Square, had its last day on Saturday (August 24).

The tearoom was one of a number of businesses who spoke out about the renovation works taking place in the area. Many said that the project, which would see the high street square resurfaced, has decimated footfall and put livelihoods at risk.

The venue, which was incredibly popular among locals, is the latest to shut in the town centre. It follows only a weekend after the closure of Bertie's Cocktail Bar, which was under the same ownership.

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In a statement posted online, business owner Sue Noades said: "This is it, it is our last Tea Room day. We've had a great time serving our amazing customers but the works outside in the end have won."

The tearoom offered customers a unique and memorable afternoon tea experience, including an authentic 1940s atmosphere as well as a wide selection of savoury and sweet treats. It has a four star rating on TripAdvisor, with one customer describing it as "a wonderful experience" and another saying it was "beautifully run".

Many people have also expressed sadness over the venue's closure. One person said that they would be missed dearly, while another commented that "St Neots is losing a real gem."

A petition was launched last month (July 22), calling St Neots Town Council to provide "suitable compensation" for the businesses that have been affected by the renovation works. At the time of writing, it has received a total of 882 signatures.

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