Old Hall Southwold Cafe & Walks in Waveney

Nice enough cafe typical of those around UK. Sadly though waiting staff were rude on our arrival - we went to the back of the cafe to look at the nice view and the map of walks before deciding to stay for a coffee, so we walked through cafe to the front of it to wait to be seated as requested on the entrance sign - we were chastised for not coming through front door and also for taking a can of sparkling drink from the chiller cabinet (we wanted to pay to take it away with us after having coffee). The can was removed from us as we were firmly informed we should have entered through front door, waited to be seated and they would bring us everything we requested. The waitress clearly felt we needed dressing down instead of welcoming us. They showed us to a table (the cafe was pretty empty tbh and this seemed OTT). As a result we didn’t get to see the variety of cakes on display at the check out desk so we didn’t feel we wanted to order one with our coffee. I would suggest the management need to review the processes for welcoming customers so that they are made to feel at home - my husband joked that it felt like the military were running it. Also if you want to offer a variety of cakes, put them where people can view them before they are asked to order. All told it was a bit of a turn off and we won’t return. Not to our taste.

An inaugural visit on holiday following family recommendation. The staff were welcoming and the food was excellent. Perfect before a walk in the Suffolk countryside.

Superb afternoon tea to celebrate a special birthday. Amazing location, service exceptional and the food couldn’t have been better - fabulous selection of savoury and sweet treats - very generous portions and all cooked freshly. Could not recommend more highly.

Poor service today had to wait 15 mins after being seated then another 15 to get food with one being delivered 10 Minutes apart and not busy but lots of staff ‼️

Ok, but could be more more mindful of equality/inclusion in practice. Not being able to see the menu until you've committed to a table isn't great if you have member of your party with additional needs (i.e. with food aversions). The brand of carton drinks stocked are very liable to spillage - not great for kids with support needs or younger, less dexterous children.

This amazing spot is a hidden gem in the North Suffolk Countryside. The food us incredible all cooked fresh to order & the staff are second to none. The is beautiful overlooking the estuary of the River Byth.

Lovely little spot for food and drinks. Beautiful views and walks. The food was very good. I think they stop serving hot food from the kitchen from 11.00 to 12.00 to allow for the kitchen to switch over to lunch preparations. You can still have hot food from the counter (sausage rolls etc). I had a very good hot sausage roll and my wife had the best cheese scone she's ever had. It came with chilli jam which she didn't fancy but it was the perfect accompaniment for my sausage roll.

Excellent afternoon tea in lovely setting overlooking marshes and river. All food yummy, freshly prepared and well presented with choice of sandwiches, type of scones and pastries as well as cheese straws and cake. Easy walking trails down to river through reed beds