If you thought that the latest trends in the restaurant industry are signalling the end of many small yet much loved dining venues and bringing good news for the larger ones, you might not be wrong. However, things are a little different in Rock Cottage, Clungunford, where a tearoom called Bird on the Rock is going as strong as ever.

Owned and run by Doug and Annabel Hawkes and located in a 17th century former alehouse, the tearoom gives visitors a chance to sip tea from pretty blue and white china cups while listening to dance band music from the 1930s.

Close to fifty rare and award winning teas are selected from all around the world. Choices range from blends such as Russian caravan and Nilgiri, to Old English Fruits and the strong old-fashioned Shropshire blend. For those who avoid the tempting teas there is ginger beer. Choose from a delightful range of home-baked sandwiches, apple, banana and cinnamon scones or fresh cakes.

Bird on the Rock Tearoom organises tea tasting events and sells chutneys, teas and gifts.