Chapelfield Gardens, Norwich.

This buzzing, friendly and inviting café is a true gem. Situated in a beautiful Victorian park with its flower beds, green lawns and bandstand, is a lovely setting and an oasis of calm. The pavilion is often used for events and concerts, and at the time of our visit the funfair was in town, much to the chagrin of our youngest daughter needing to blindfold and drag both her young girls swiftly past.

Having spent the week with family and allowing just enough time for a hearty breakfast before facing the challenges of the rail journey home, we were lucky to locate a table in this busy, bustling hub of a café. Packed with families and helpful attentive staff – our banquet was a joy. From vegan meals, cakes and mouthwatering pancakes to name but a few, our choice was The Beast, and OMG that was the most appropriate name for this feast. I honestly couldn’t eat it all, but it was so scrummy.

The cafe is dog friendly and is situated next to a children’s play area, absolutely ideal to wear out your two-legged little darlings, while you relax with a coffee and a pastry.  

We parked at the nearby Chapelfield car park (renamed Chantry), with its busy shopping centre and over 90 shops. Just a ten-minute walk from the bus station and twenty minutes’ walk from the train station.

Luckily, daughter Rebecca drove hubby and I to the train station, cos after ‘The Beast’ I genuinely don’t think I would have been able to walk any further than the car park!

Pop in for great food and a great atmosphere. Bon Appetit.