BRIDGWATER residents of a certain age may get a sense of nostalgia when they visit The Old Vicarage's newly-restored tearooms.

Peter Starling and his partner Candida Leaver took over The Old Vicarage Hotel last year and have been busy renovating the historic building area by area.

The hotel and restaurant re-opened in June, and today (Tuesday, January 21), the latest addition is ready to re-open - the former Steyning Farm Tea Rooms.

Mr Starling said: "We know the Steyning Farm Tea Room was popular in Bridgwater in the 1950's and 1960's.

"It stood out because it roasted its own coffee, with the distinctive aroma drifting around nearby, which was rare in those days.

"We hope people will come and visit the Old Vicarage Tea Room and reminisce about those days."

The Old Vicarage is thought to be Bridgwater's second oldest remaining building, and dates back to 1327.

It is Grade II listed, and has important links with Bridgwater's past.

It is reputably the place Judge Jeffreys stayed and, also provided lodgings for Isambard Kingdom Brunel, who designed the train station and a bridge in the town.

The team at the Old Vicarage have stayed true to the building's heritage when updating the building, and as well as the new tea room, have also completed the restaurant, the majority of the 20 en-suite bedrooms, the bar area and oak dining room.

The new tea room is complete with chic vintage decor and traditional furniture, and also has a delightful garden area which visitors will be able to make the most of in the spring and summer.

Peter Starling and Candida Leaver ran The Bower Inn in Bridgwater from 2010 to 2017 before selling the business.

The Old Vicarage tea room opens from Tuesday, January 21 and will serve tea, coffee, cakes and light snacks from 10am to lunchtime.