Queen Anne’s Café, located on The Strand in Barnstaple, is a charming and welcoming café set within one of the town’s most historic buildings. Nestled in Queen Anne’s Walk, a Grade I listed building, the café offers a unique setting where history meets contemporary hospitality.
Queen Anne’s Walk, the building that now houses the café, was constructed in 1708 as a mercantile exchange for local merchants. It was designed to serve as a covered meeting place for traders, shipowners, and merchants conducting business along the bustling quayside of Barnstaple. The building’s distinguished colonnade and classical architecture reflect the prosperity of Barnstaple during the early 18th century, when the town was a thriving centre for maritime trade.
At the heart of the building stands a statue of Queen Anne, which was erected in 1708, gifted by Robert Rolle of Stevenstone, a prominent landowner and benefactor of the town. The statue, set upon a grand stone pedestal, remains a striking feature of the building and a lasting tribute to the monarch’s reign.
For centuries, Queen Anne’s Walk played an essential role in Barnstaple’s commercial history, serving as a hub for trading activity when the River Taw was a primary route for importing and exporting goods. Over time, as trade patterns shifted and industrial changes altered the economic landscape, the use of the building evolved. It remained a significant landmark, symbolizing the town’s rich mercantile past.
In 2018, Queen Anne’s Walk was given new life when the space was transformed into Queen Anne’s Café, a vibrant eatery that pays homage to the building’s past while offering a modern, inviting space for locals and visitors to enjoy. With original architectural details carefully preserved, the café retains the historic charm and character of the building, providing a unique dining environment unlike any other in Barnstaple.
Queen Anne’s Café is committed to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create a menu that celebrates the best of North Devon’s produce. The café offers a variety of breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea options, with dishes crafted to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. From hearty full English breakfasts to homemade sandwiches, artisan cakes, and freshly brewed coffee, the café ensures that every meal is made with care and quality ingredients.
The outdoor seating area, set under the historic colonnade of Queen Anne’s Walk, allows guests to dine al fresco while enjoying stunning views of the River Taw. The tranquil riverside setting makes it an ideal spot to relax, unwind, and soak in the history of Barnstaple while savoring a delicious meal.
Beyond its daily café offerings, Queen Anne’s Café serves as a versatile venue for private events, celebrations, and gatherings. The unique historical setting and stylish interior make it a sought-after location for weddings, birthday parties, and corporate events. The café provides a range of catering options, from buffet-style service to sit-down meals, tailored to suit different occasions.
Queen Anne’s Café is also involved in community events and regularly hosts live music evenings, themed dining experiences, and seasonal celebrations. The combination of excellent food, a welcoming atmosphere, and a historic backdrop makes it a go-to destination for both casual meet-ups and special occasions.
Queen Anne’s Café is more than just a place to eat; it is an opportunity to experience a piece of Barnstaple’s history while enjoying outstanding food and hospitality. The setting within Queen Anne’s Walk provides a rare glimpse into the town’s mercantile past, while the café’s modern culinary offerings and friendly service create an inviting atmosphere for everyone.
Whether you’re stopping by for a relaxing coffee by the river, indulging in a homemade afternoon tea, or celebrating a special occasion, Queen Anne’s Café offers a truly unique experience that blends the rich history of Barnstaple with the best of North Devon’s local food scene.
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