Opening Times: Mon - Fri: 10.00-5.00 Sat: 10.00-5.00 or 6.00 Sun: 9.00-6.00 (ish) Phone to check late visit Location 10km (6m) NW of Leicester SK521097

Nearby places to visit: Bradgate Park Groby Pool (1.5km, 1m) Beacon Hill (5km, 3m) Great Central Railway Rothley Sta. (6.5km, 4m)

Being a fan of Tudor history, I love visiting Bradgate Park. On weekdays, when it's a little less crowded, I imagine Lady Jane Grey strolling around the park watching the deer. Such a tragic end to a sweet young girl. With all those royal connections there really should be a quality tea room, so you can imagine my delight when Janine and Richard launched Jade Tearooms.

A young couple, with a great deal of hotel experience, Richard and Janine have really put their heart and soul into this tea room. Whilst pawing over the menu at the counter, I was greeted with the magic phrase "Can I help you madam?"! The fact that they won the Leicester Mercury award for Best Tea Room In Leicestershire for 1999 says it all.

The tea room building is from the late Victorian era and the interior design continues that theme. One picture of Victoria and Albert made me smile - I wonder how many times she'd be saying "I'm not amused" when boisterous children arrive! However, children are most welcome, and a high chair is available. The pretty lace table cloths and framed watercolours go towards creating a relaxing, yet charming tea room. All home made, the range of food on offer includes a delicious selection of light lunches such as baguettes with a range of tempting fillings. Hot dishes are available between 12.00 and 3.00, and cake lovers will drool over the large slices of home made cake set before them.

Being opposite the gates to Bradgate Park, it's very convenient to visit after a long walk. The chairs outside mean visitors with dogs are welcome to sit and relax. It may get busy at weekends, but it's well worth a wait.