Cafe closes at Oxford department store Boswells

The 1738 Tea Room reportedly shut on Friday, and on Tuesday this week contractors had started boarding the site up to prevent access.

At the same time, staff at Boswells have stuck masking tape over the names of several other departments in the store on signs.

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Previously found on the first floor next to the children’s toys section, the tea room was approaching its fourth anniversary later this month.

The cafe prided itself on its afternoon teas, which included sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and an assortment of cakes.

In addition to its afternoon tea service, Boswells’ tea room offered pies, soups and quiches.

The opening of the tea room in 2015 saw the linens department relocated to the second floor, alongside the bedroom and bathroom goods and new customer toilets.

Boswells specialises in homeware, cosmetics, toys, travel and also has a pharmacy and health department.

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The iconic Broad Street store began life under Francis Boswell at 50 Cornmarket Street in 1738.

Boswell initially sold luxury luggage items to the great and good of Oxford.

The store remained family-owned until 1890, when Arthur Pearson of the Oxford Drug Company took over the reins.

The store to this day remains in the hands of the Pearsons.

To celebrate their long and rich history, Boswells last year placed a time capsule containing shoppers’ memories in the building’s roof.

The capsule is due to be opened in 20 years when the store will celebrate its 300th year.

A spokeswoman for Boswells said the 1738 Tearoom was closed at this time 'due to a variety of local factors'.

She added: "We would like to thank all our customers for their support."