For those hankering after the traditional English cup of tea, look no further. Auntie’s Tea Shop serves such a good brew and such delicious homemade cakes that it makes you yearn for a bygone era.

The Venue
On St Mary’s Passage, near some of Cambridge's oldest collegial buildings, sits this charming little cafe which gives locals and tourists a glimpse of a proper English tea room.

It's a bit of squeeze and it's absolutely crammed with small tables, all with lace tablecloths on them.

The wallpaper is a fading green and the photographs and art work are similarly old-fashioned. It’s touches like these that add real charm to the place.

The waitresses are all very sweet and well-mannered and they look pleased to be dressed in their demure black and white uniforms.

Combine all these things together and you'll feel like you’ve stepped back in time, unless you glance at a tourist with their digital camera taking photos of this nostalgic piece of England.

The People
The bulk of the customers in Auntie’s Tea Shop are elderly - they're the generation who appreciate more than most the importance of a good cream tea. But there are also families, tourists and even a few students who want to have a relaxing cup of tea with a bit of charm.

The locals who come here are mostly regulars. They’re a very friendly group who want to relax, but even so they still carry an air of sophistication about them.

The odd tourist does alter the Englishness of it all, but in a sweet way that makes the little old ladies blush at the thought of their daily tea ritual being special.

The Food
Auntie’s Tea Shop caters to pretty much any food craving you have, at any time of the day. From hearty cooked breakfasts without the dollop of grease at £6, to a selection of baked potatoes, baguettes and salads – all between £5 and £10.

The most popular thing to order at Auntie’s is, of course, the cream tea, complete with egg and cress sandwiches, English Breakfast tea and fresh scones with jam and cream will set you back £7.50. Delicious and good value.

The cakes, from £1 to £5 are also a proper treat to go with your tea. They're all moreish, sweet, rich and moist and the portions are the ones your mother would give you. The evidence of how good they are is on the plates - not a crumb in sight.

The Drinks
Teas on offer, for example English breakfast and earl grey, are all £1.95 for a pot. They can be served with milk or lemon and are simple and soothing enough to satisfy most.

There are also some soft drinks and, for those who want a bit of a kick, there are some basic coffees at £3 for a king-size mug.

But if you want to do it properly, it’s all about the tea. It’s worth it for the relaxation it instantly brings.

The Last Word
It’s anything but chic and modern, but Auntie’s Tea Shop is a sweet little place that is great value for money and offers some proper homemade cakes and a brew to help you get away from the stresses of the day.

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