A ‘QUINTESSENTIAL’ English tearoom on Exmoor has been let for the National Trust to a new business owner for the first time in nearly 10 years.

The ‘charming chocolate-box thatched cottage Kitnors, in Bossington, has been run by chef and nutrition coach Katy Lampard and her husband Tony since 2015.

Now, David Jenkins and Linzy Ottley have taken over for the tearoom’s reopening at the start of the tourism season next spring.

Mrs Lampard said: “We are now moving onto pastures new and handing over the tea garden keys to new owners.

The large tea garden of Kitnors Tearoom, in Bossington. PHOTO: Christie & Co.

“We have been supported by so many wonderful customers over the years and I am confident that David and Linzy will take it from strength to strength.

“The new owners have some exciting new ideas, I cannot wait to see what 2025 looks like for Kitnors.”

During the Covid pandemic lockdowns Mr and Mrs Lampard supported residents and shops in the Porlock area by delivering food orders, including cream teas, to their doorsteps.

Mr Jenkins and Ms Ottley said: “We are tremendously excited about taking over Kitnors and have big plans for its future.

“We look forward to welcoming back all our customers when we reopen in the spring.”

The sale was handle by specialist business property adviser Christie & Co, whose associate director Tim Widdows said: “We received plenty of interest and I am delighted it has gone to such enthusiastic new operators.

“I wish them the best of luck in their new venture.”

Mr Widdows said the tearoom attracted high levels of trade from visitors exploring Exmoor National Park and its nearby coastline.

The South West Coast Path and a host of nearby country walks, trails, and historic sites were also popular with both tourists and regular visitors.

Kitnors traditionally serves teas, coffees, light lunches, and afternoon teas daily throughout the summer months and boasts a large tea garden with more than 50 covers and a fully-fitted outdoor kitchen.

The cottage is under a National Trust lease and has three-bedroom owner’s accommodation, including a large lounge-diner with an open fire, making it attractive as a lifestyle business.