Carriages of Cambridge, Afternoon Tea

Carriages of Cambridge Afternoon Tea

Wednesday, 18th February

 

Carriages of Cambridge Story

Carriages is the visionary concept of Michael Attle, inspired by a memorable visit to

a restaurant housed within a colonial railway station in India.

Upon his return, Michael was offered and purchased the station platform from Oakham.

This experience, combined with his passion for celebrating the vibrant food scene across

East Anglia, marked the beginning of an exciting journey.

 

We are in the Lancelot Carriage

The Lancelot carriage (Mark 1 SK 24458) was originally built in Swindon Works in 1954.

Designed with eight compartments featuring two bench seats opposite each other, it

primarily served the Eastern Region of British Railways. After its withdrawal from BR

service in 1982, it was purchased by the Mid Hants Railway, then later operated on the

Battlefield Line until 2002. In June 2007, it was transferred to the Bluebell Railway.

Recognizing its potential, Carriages acquired SK 24458 and transformed it by removing

the original compartments to create an open-plan layout, reminiscent of the luxurious

first-class dining cars of its era.

The carriage was rechristened Lancelot in honor of Lancelot Capability Brown, the

renowned English landscape architect and "England’s Greatest Gardener," who is buried

in Fenstanton Parish Church.

 

Building the Station

Michael’s vision extended beyond the carriage. He embarked on creating a complete

station, including a signal box, sourcing Pullman-style carriages, constructing a 1920s-style

station house, and laying authentic flagstones for the platform. This project has been a true

labour of love, with meticulous attention to detail right down to the weight of the cutlery,

the quality of bone china, and vintage-style glasses and cake stands.

Together, Michael and his dedicated team have crafted a truly enchanting venue nestled

within the beautiful display gardens at Bannold, Fen Drayton, Cambridge.

 

Carriages Afternoon Tea

Two freshly baked scone plain or fruit, served with Cornish clotted cream and jam or lemon

curd and butter.

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A selection of homemade petit fours made with our own free range eggs

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A selection of freshly made finger sandwiches.

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Accompanied by a choice of single estate teas or single origin coffees

 

Pick-Up Times:

You'll receive a Final Confirmation a few days before with a Departure time from your

chosen pick-up location, this is because we finalise a pick-up route and timetable once

all bookings have been received.