A ‘quintessentially English’ tea room has been given a zero food hygiene rating and told ‘urgent action’ is needed to improve standards.

The Bridge Tea Rooms in Bradford on Avon has been told that ‘major improvements’ are necessary.

At the time of writing the tea room is closed following the latest inspection by the Food Standards Agency on Tuesday, August 6.

The ‘Sorry We’re Closed’ notice on the door at The Bridge Tea Rooms. The ‘Sorry We’re Closed’ notice on the door at The Bridge Tea Rooms. (Image: Trevor Porter)

Owners Roy and Alison Hayward have blamed the problems on rodents coming over the road from the Bradford on Avon library car park and the banks of the River Avon.

Mr Hayward said: “There is in the area a problem which Wiltshire Council are sorting out which affects our business and that is the appearance of rodents.

“We want to make sure there is absolutely no evidence that they have come into our place before we reopen and know that it is safe.”

Mr Hayward says they have been working with the council and Nurture Pest Control (previously known as Rokill) to eradicate the rodents from the tea rooms.

Officials found major improvements were necessary in all three categories: hygienic food handling, cleanliness and condition of facilities and building, and management of food safety.

Cllr Dominic Muns, cabinet member for Public Protection, said: “Having been made aware of issues with rats we have been working with the business to try and resolve this situation as quickly as possible.

“As a result, the owner voluntarily decided to temporarily close the business.

“We have provided detailed advice and guidance for the business to follow which, if carried out, should result in it being able to reopen.

“We understand situations like this are difficult for those involved and it’s always our aim to provide support as much as is required, but it is the responsibility of the businesses we work with to carry out the necessary action to resolve any issues.

“We continue to be in regular contact with this particular business.” 

The Bridge Tea Rooms were previously given food hygiene ratings of four and ‘Good’ in June 2023 and November 2021.

The tea rooms are located in one of Bradford on Avon’s oldest buildings, a former blacksmith’s cottage dating back to 1502.

Once described as 'near perfect' by the prestigious UK Tea Guild, The Bridge Tea Rooms say they offer the very best in ‘quintessentially English’ afternoon tea, lunches, and light meals throughout the day.