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Cafe open for business

THE highly-anticipated launch of Delapre Abbey’s Conservatory Cafe took place in April, ready for the Easter school holidays.

Restoration work on the grade II* listed Abbey, supported thanks to National Lottery players, is now complete and the beautifully presented rooms have been furnished and fitted out ready for visitors.

The full experience will be available from early summer but Delapre devotees are invited to drop in ahead of that for afternoon tea and a walk around the grounds.

Rachael Boyd, director of the Delapre Abbey Preservation Trust, said: “We are delighted to open phase one of the Abbey after so much hard work by so many.

“It’s an exciting stage in the history of the abbey and we look forward to welcoming our first visitors.”

The Conservatory Cafe will be available for walk-in customers while the Billiard Room will be reserved for those wishing to book afternoon tea.

Experienced catering firm, Amadeus, will run the venue, featuring an eclectic seasonal menu with a local twist.

Amadeus prides itself in more than 40 years running venues as part of the NEC Group and plans to take full advantage of the fantastic gastric offering from across Northamptonshire.

Marc Frankl, food and beverage director, said: “We have extensive experience of working with historic attractions and understand the importance of reflecting a venue’s history and personality through its food and beverage.

“For Delapre Abbey we have designed a restaurant setting and menu that reflects its rich heritage, while also offering quality and value for money. As a company we also are committed to supporting the regional economy through our choice of suppliers.

“We hope The Conservatory Cafe will become a destination in its own right for both the local community and visitors to Northamptonshire.”

Visitors have been asked to bring along their locally-inspired ideas for a chance to have their suggestions featured on the cafe menu.

The Abbey’s restoration has been delivered through a £3.65 million Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) grant, with the remainder made up by Northampton Borough Council.

Jonathan Platt, head of HLF East Midlands, said: “Delapre Abbey is one of the most important and iconic heritage assets in Northampton and we are delighted that National Lottery players have been able to support the plans to transform the site.

“A visit to the new cafe is a great opportunity for people to get a glimpse of the work before the formal opening in the summer.”

Council Cabinet member for regeneration, enterprise and planning, Cllr Tim Hadland, said: “We’re enormously proud of what has been achieved at Delapre.

“The cafe launch is just the first step in bringing this magnificent building into full public use for the first time in its 900-year history.”

Anyone wishing to book afternoon tea should email or call 01604 866712.

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