Based on 86 opinions finded in 1 websites
Based on 86 opinions finded in 1 websites
Nº 64 in 207 in Mid Suffolk
Nº 12 of 53 British in Mid Suffolk
Opinions
Love it here, we come at least once a month, we've had breakfast baps, lunches, scones, coffee & cake and a fair few ice creams! Food is always delicious. Staff are always polite and service is good. They do get very busy which can mean a bit of a wait sometimes, but it's rare we've had to wait too long, and you only have to look around to see why you're waiting so it's not a big deal.
thehungryfish . 2024-08-26
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We visited because there are hardstand pathways for wheelchair access - very necessary for two visitors. The cafe is good and serves lovely drinks, cakes and excellent lunches. The compost loos are a bit daunting but there are disabled facilities in the cafe which was helpful.
Sue C . 2024-08-23
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Visited here twice in a week because it was such hood food and the first time we didnt do the walk. Staff are really good and the food is delicious and well priced. Great walks nearby too.
Lisa W . 2024-08-11
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Opening times are 10am now on a Saturday which seems a little late for early cyclist, runners, walkers who'd like refreshments. According to one of the many 'instruction' boards closing times may change ad hoc depending on the weather so don't rely on a cup of tea on a rainy afternoon. Service is very slow especially when park run is on. Staff are not the most welcoming and friendly people. Perhaps a little customer service training would be helpful. Quality of food and drinks is very good though.
Ellen . 2024-03-02
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After lovely walk with our dog in the grounds we always enjoy our lunches here, delicious coffee and food served by friendly staff.
Smilie . 2024-02-25
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Great friendly prompt service, excellent reasonably priced food and a wonderful location all tucked into a forest for lovely dry pathway walks - what could be better.
geocachegang . 2023-11-11
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Perfect pit stop to refuel after the beautiful Thornham Parkrun. Gorgeous coffee and cheese scones to die for. Great service, and staff that can cope with lots of people all at the same time. Well done
Nicola A . 2023-08-05
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Outstanding cafe under new ownership has been transformed into a perfect spot for a reasonably priced brunch. All the scones are homemade every day and the menu was extensive and worth frequent visits. Highly recommended. We will now be regulars !!!
geocachegang . 2023-04-26
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Lovely cafe with friendly staff and good food. Love going on a walk here with our dog Maisie and then having lunch 😃
Jenny C . 2023-04-22
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I don’t understand the negative reviews on here. Went today, staff were brilliant and very helpful, good price, food excellent and hot, what more can you ask.
Voyager17437386687 . 2022-05-19
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We hadnt come across The Forge before as we normally park at the other entrance and walk from that end but this time we used this entrance and thus found the cafe. We were impressed with both the organisation and the quality of the food Service was pleasant and prices reasonable.We will certainly time our visitsforlunchtime in the future.
Allan C . 2022-02-13
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Delicious fresh food, efficient and friendly service in a beautiful setting. We walked here from Swattesfield campsite with several adults and a bunch of children. We all found something we wanted to eat (from vegans to fussy eaters who just wanted a plain baguette). Children enjoyed the play area and we could have stayed all day.
355anniep . 2021-09-27
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Great food, sensibly priced, nice staff and generous tasty portions. The staff have gone out of their way to operate safely. Well worth a visit
nickrashtead . 2021-08-15
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First time at Thornham walks as looking for wheelchair friendly places for the mother in law. Ended the walk at the cafe where we were served by a very friendly waitress. I am coeliac and was very pleased to see that there was a selection of cakes that I could have other than the traditional gluten-free brownies. I ordered lemon polenta cake and it was amazing so much so that I asked for the recipe. Sam, the lady that had baked the cake came out and wrote it out for me. Thank you Sam. Can’t wait to try it. A brilliant place to end a walk
chitchatgirl14 . 2021-05-10
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Awesome day out. Went for a walk came back to the cafe for a pit stop, the brownie and coffee were so good we decided to go back for lunch. Definitely far from disappointed, lunch was fab so we got some cake to go. The food was amazing and the walks awesome, I can't stress enough how brilliant the staff are 👏👌
ElBooto . 2021-05-07
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Really disappointed. We visited today and placed two orders, drinks (and child’s food) then adults food. Both came out with bits missing. Service was slow. We were there two hours and had three diet cokes, two coffees, sausage roll, panini’s and chips. It took at least half an hour for the drinks and forty five for the food. Customer service was poor. When we raised we were still waiting for drinks they then came with half the order and were surprised when we said we were missing some bits. We were polite and civil but the girl just squeaked like she was going to cry and ran away. When ordering the food the waitress clarified what we ordered more than once and still we only got two of the three panini’s ordered and we had to wait for the third (after having already waited 45 minutes). Totally understand everyone is getting back to normal after lockdown and that things maybe slow but after getting our initial order wrong you would expect the effort would be made to be quick and get it right next time. Sadly not the case. Chips are amazing though but that isn’t enough to make us want to go back.
sarahl0uiser . 2021-04-18
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We came in the summer and again today and both times the coffee is verging on cold you have to drink straight away certainly wouldn’t warm you up on a cold day. Shame as a lovely place to visit and walk with the dogs if a bit muddy which is no one’s fault other than the amount of rain we have had recently.
Frankbuthonest . 2020-12-29
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This is the only open cafe on the Thornham Estate at the moment. The food is fresh and they are strictly complying to COVID safe regulations, which is reassuring. There is a small but well cooked menu Portion sizes are substanbtial and the food of a good quality. The cakes are divine! Leave some space for them, definitely!!
Coatesfly . 2020-08-11
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Very disappointed with the unfriendly attitude towards customers with young children. I would not recommend this coffee shop as a family place as the management have minimal patience and although they try to present the impression they accommodate everyone, clearly they are biased towards those without children. Final straw (after witnessing a couple of unnecessarily rude encounters between management and family customers) was a few weeks ago when my friend and I were sat having a coffee and cake after a nice walk with our three year old boys. We began to pack up when the boys starting playing up as young children do. The manager came over and in front of everyone requested that we leave and that next time we should sit in the ‘child friendly’ side of the coffee shop. (At that present time there was no sign or indication that there was a specific area for children nor were we directed to that area either. For those of you who are wondering, apparently it’s on the left side where the loos are). As it was obvious to both staff and customers that we were leaving, it was completely unnecessary to embarrass us in such a manner. Incidentally after we left another mother who had been sat next to us eating lunch with her friend and their two young babies came over to us in the car park to say how sorry she was that the manager behaved in such a manner and that he had a similar demeanour with them too. The only reason I’ve given them two stars rather than one is their cakes are great, particularly their carrot cake. My recommendation to parents is bring your own food and drink and sit in the playground area, as much as the food is nice it’s outweighed by managements customer service.
hannahwP5732WU . 2020-03-21
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My family and I have been to this cafe a few times and never had a complaint before. However, today I was so disappointed. They have since changed the way you queue with a self service area. Which seems to cause a lot of confusion and even the older lady behind the till didn't know who's turn it was. The way I was spoken to by this member of staff made me reluctant to part with my money. I found her unnecessarily rude. I had to make my own tea and the loos were disgusting and very unclean! It has put me off going for future even though the food was good. Unfortunately the whole bad experience has left a lasting impression instead.
sparklyredshoes . 2020-02-02
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I always want to be able to give independent cafe/restaurant owners 5* but just can’t do it this time. We visited on a lovely sunny, crisp Saturday afternoon in January and clearly the cafe had been busy. We asked for a Belgian waffle and were told that they weren’t available anymore because they closed at 4pm. It was 3.35pm. We were also told that we could only have hot drinks in take away cups. The woman who served us, she may have been the owner, was clearly frazzled and rather curt in her manner. Anyway we had hot drinks and a nice piece of lemon polenta cake and sat and listened to her give the same dismissive response to all the customers that followed who also were hoping for a waffle. Running a business is hard work but throwing away an opportunity to take money and build a reputation makes no business sense at all.
debrapO6959FH . 2020-01-20
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My husband and myself popped in for some takeaway cake after our walk. The carrot cake was delicious as was the flapjack.The forge also has a nice original forge fire which made the place feel cozy. We would defiantly visit here again if in the area.
Abbeylls . 2019-11-10
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Had a wonderful walk around the sculpture trail in the blistering heat with our 5&7 yr olds. The only thing that kept them going through the heat was the promise of an ice-cream at the end. Unfortunately, mummy mis-judged the closing time of the cafe!! Disaster!!! However, the lovely man trying to close up saw the distress in my daughter's eyes and unlocked the door so we could get our long awaited and well deserved ice-cream. Disaster averted!!! THANK YOU!! Very good ice-cream as well.
hquinn100 . 2019-08-26
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Lovely coffee. Great home cooked food. Sunday morning big breakfast is a must. Can be a bit of a wait at very busy at times, just sit back and relax and wait in a nice setting.
Paul F . 2019-08-14
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Not overly impressed at all.Came before for a walk with the dog and had a cuppa and cake and it was lovely. So when we said we would meet friends for breakfast thought this may be a nice place to come.Sadly not the case.We all sat down inside the cafe and expected table service - didn’t happen. Had to ask if someone would be taking our order and got told no, come up here (to the till) so we did!We were paying separately but specifically said to the lady can you ensure it all comes out together please, she announced it all get cooks in order so it will come out when it’s ready.She wasn’t joking!! We had 2 full English breakfasts, our friends had 1 full english, 1 bacon roll and mushrooms on 2 slices of toast.Ours came out first, and we had pretty much finished ours before the bacon roll and mushrooms on ONE PIECE of toast came out. Friend had to ask for the other slice of toast. £5 for that was disgraceful, especially when they tried to get away with only providing on piece of toast. When asked she actually huffed and stomped off!! Not impressed at all.Then about 5 mins later the other full English arrives, with the waitress telling our friend his mushrooms will come out in a bit!! No apology with that at all either....The food itself was ok ish, if you like a very greasy food. The bacon was extremely salty and dripping in fat as were the hash browns. Sausages were nice tho. Just terrible all round when you put everything together really and would only recommend their easy food such as flapjacks, cakes and sausages rolls. Perhaps they should stick to this to take the pressure off because it certainly isn’t a happy ship.....As for the waitress who delivered our food. She needs to be given some lessons in customer service or find a job that suits her strops!!
IamSpesh . 2019-08-11
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We had absolutely scrummy cream tea and cakes here! Fantastic treats! Be sure and stop in for lunch or tea. It's a lovely, warm and welcoming setting.
TrvlLovrs . 2019-08-08
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Called in with friends for a snack and decided to have sausage roll with hand cut chips.It soon arrived despite the place being busy.The sausage roll was piping hot and a lovely tasting one.The portion of chips for the price was very good as well. The only downside was you now have to pay for the car park.OK if you are going for a walk and staying a few hours but it would be expensive if you just popped in for a tea/coffee.
Tonyholland233 . 2019-06-27
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Went here for lunch having been previously a number of times. Service friendly and thoughtful. Food and coffee really good but we sat near the Forge and it was in need of a good clean, under the forge was a space littered with food and old napkins, as you looked around you realised that there were cobwebs and dust everywhere. It really needs to be thought of in a food environment, the staff really were delightful and we will go again, but not for a while, hopefully it will allow for a good bit of housework!
Andria R . 2019-05-29
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Lovely setting for cafe after a walk, lots of offer, reasonable priced, all tasted good apart from both portions of chips under cooked. Young waiter spot on very friendly and well mannered but older guy bit rude regarding our dog.
56lindseya . 2019-04-07
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After a good walk, we called in to the tearoom for an early lunch. We were told that we could bring our dog in provided that he was good and quiet, which he was. In fact, he was one of 3 dogs in there. Food was just right for lunch, a lot of favourites and some unusual dishes. All was very reasonably priced and staff were very friendly. A great find.
Jill S . 2019-03-23
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Visited whilst on a circular cycle ride, fancied a breakfast when we went in breakfasts finished at 11-30, it was now 12 ish but they said no problem they would do one, but I changed my mind and had sausage egg and chips it did not disappoint, friendly people good service well worth a visit.
Ducati4 . 2018-12-09
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We were put off by a problem with the drains - huge puddle of foul smelling water from the cafe or toilets? still gushing out on the main road.
g0akc . 2018-09-10
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We popped in to the Tearooms for a couple of hours en route to a local campsite. We were pleasantly surprised by the amount of selection available however we only ordered some drinks and a bowl of chips for the kids. The playground was lovely, nicely fenced in and lots of space between the equipment. There were a lot of families having picnics as the weather was glorious.
Luci T . 2018-08-20
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We normally just pop in for a drink, however today we decided to stop for lunch after a walk. We all ordered the bacon and egg bap.. very generous amount of bacon and a perfectly runny egg!
Mothership17 . 2018-07-08
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I just love stopping here for refreshments whether with family or out with my cycling buddies. The food is delicious and the service outstanding. It’s in a beautiful setting too. (Thornham Walks).
Ellie G . 2018-05-12
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Lovely cafe which we visited today on a long bike ride. Easy to find, tons of parking, toilets available but best of all superb cafe. Lovely, friendly staff, excellent choice of meals and drinks but make sure you leave room for the carrot cake- it is just amazing, superb, incredible. I am told by others in the party that the brownies and cheese scones were equally amazing. We will be visiting again and again and again i am sure.
danrSuffolk . 2018-05-10
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Great place to have a meal or snack before or after a walk. Stopped here for lunch a couple of times, great food both times and lovely service. The owner even settled my baby for me when it wasn’t busy and he cried just as my food was put down - wonderful service! Really appreciated.
Profsnape2 . 2018-04-17
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After a rather wet and long walk at Thornham it was a real pleasure to have coffee, home made cheese scones and sausage rolls beside a lovely lot fire. Friendly service and the lunches looked good but we only had a snack.
TannedMaggie . 2018-04-05
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We treat ourselves to coffee and warm homemade sausage rolls after a lovely walk and always excellent! Very friendly service. Cakes are delicious too! Highly recommend.
hannahhC7655FO . 2018-03-22
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I went here with friends for brunch in the lead up to Christmas and some of us had the the ‘Full English’ while others including myself chose the Bacon and Egg Bap! Oh my word that was as good a breakfast bap as I’ve had anywhere.
James C . 2018-01-21
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We took the children for a walk at Thornham and stopped for a drink and something to eat. Homemade cakes and sausage rolls are lovely and the chips were a big hit. Great coffee and the children loved the freshly made milkshakes. My daughter decided to spill some of hers and she was given another one without any charge. The staff are lovely and thoughtful.
JtJunior . 2017-09-11
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First visit to Thornham Walks today and we spotted The Forge and decided to give it a try. We both had the Ploughmans Lunch. Excellent. Good value for money. We will most definitely come again.
LizandDaveBarrett . 2017-09-01
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Came here with our young daughter for lunch and coffee (our young daughter didn't have coffee as she is too young). The food was really good. I had a jacket potato and it was cooked really well (I am quite fussy when it comes to jacket potato). My husband ate a meal of ham, egg and chips, he said it was very nice but he wouldn't let me try any of it. Our young daughter had a toastie sandwich which she loved.
stvhjn . 2017-08-10
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Under new ownership now and what a lovely place to visit.Lovey Food Menu,Great Service highly recommend.
Rodney E . 2017-07-30
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Visitamos durante la ola antes de salir para el paseo. Mi marido tenía un hermoso pedazo de g/f tarta de limón polenta recién salidos del horno. Sentamos en el sol, encantador!
Caroline J . 2017-06-22
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Siempre nos paramos aquí después de un paseo por el bosque como hacer un montón de otras personas. Muy acogedor y encantador. tartas
Ann L . 2017-06-07
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Conocido este café durante varios años, pero ahora tiene nuevos dueños, y es un lugar encantador para una taza, precioso en invierno con el fuego. Práctico para tomar un helado piruletas para los niños. Lo único es, me parece que es un poco caro, los bocadillos, rollitos de salchicha, etc. principalmente Agradezco aunque estas son caseras y por supuesto hay gastos generales a pagar para alquilar el café, pero puede ser caro si tienes una familia grande. En resumen, un lugar encantador
cccm22 . 2017-05-06
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Pequeña cafetería situado cerca de la entrada principal de Thornham paseos. Bien preparada comida regularmente con nuevos elementos añadidos a menú y buena calidad ingredientes locales. Patatas fritas increíble! Es muy popular entre las familias y los senderistas con un montón de asientos al aire libre
GandKW2013 . 2017-04-22
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Mi familia y yo vinimos aquí para dar un paseo agradable en Lunes de Pascua! Nos detuvimos para aprovechar la sala de té y una horrible forge experiencia que era. . . .
Matthew B . 2017-04-17
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Problem with BT - so check the facbook page first if you intend to pay by card or use wifi (this is not the fault of the cafe)Very comfortable seating - ideal for a rest after enjoying one of the many walks.The owner is very friendly making this venue a real pleasure to use.Parking has gone up and is now £2 mid week, £3 weekends - still great value.
sarah11111430 . 2017-03-04
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Good walks and then a really lovely tearoom.A very warm welcome, great food and service. You are doing a brilliant job Rachel. We will definitely be back.
Jenny M . 2017-02-19
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Popped into the forge after a nice walk around thornham walks. Lovely hot choc with cream & marshmallows. Great customer service, we will be returning again soon!
Caroline F . 2017-02-17
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Authentic forge with original features including furnace, warming and warm welcome. Excelllant home cooking, simple, wholesome food and lovely cakes and coffee
Peter B . 2017-01-29
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The Forge has become a regular weekend treat for us, after a walk at Thornham Walks. The owners are really welcoming and the food is excellent. Plenty of high-chairs, so toddler-friendly, too.
Nick H . 2017-01-14
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Great service and lots of home cooked food, including some great cakes. This is a really nice place to stop after a long walk.
Don e . 2017-01-07
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This is the first time back to the Forge with the new owners and is was a fantastic experiance.It was lovely & warm very friendly.The food was realy lovely.We shall be going back there allot again.
Rodney E . 2017-01-02
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It's warm and welcoming in here and the cakes are delicious! The brownies are especially good! A separate area for the toddlers to play in which is always useful if you don't want to disturb those fortunate enough to be able to take their time over their coffee!Go at any time of year, the welcome is always warm and friendly. The fire burning in the forge is perfect in the winter though!
Bessoby . 2016-12-10
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Popped in for a quick take out coffee after visiting fabulous hair and beauty salon at same site. Such a lovely, welcoming and warm cafe with logs burning in the old forge, wished I could have stayed but had to dash.Mocha was deicious, hot and the right mix of coffee/chocolate.I will be going back very soon I hope, to eat in and to enjoy the fire and cosy atmosphere.
TeresaJP . 2016-11-10
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Warm friendly welcome, not just from staff but from the lovely fire!Just what was needed after enjoying the stunning autumnal surroundings of Thornham Walks.Good menu from cakes, scones, soup, sandwiches etc.
SuffolkMayfly . 2016-11-06
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Warm and welcoming with logs burning on the hearth and delicious food and drinks. Can highly recommend the full English all-day breakfast. Great place to spend some time before or after a walk on the Thornham Estate.
Lucy H . 2016-11-06
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This cafe is one of the most welcoming cafes around. It welcomes customers of all ages. An advantage is the amazing toy room away from the main cafe where your children can play and eat without disturbing adults! Parts of this cafe are a work in progress but it adds to the family atmosphere and compared to the predecessors the new owners have created a friendly family orientated cafe. Food is limited but always amazing. You can get what you expect from a cafe, a sarnie, toastie or soup. Always save room for a cake or two! We often will take one home. Although perfect how it is, the owners seem determined to add to the cafe and are continuing to introduce new things (such as the large option for tea or coffee takeaway) As a regular on a Wednesday I can highly recommend this asset. They will always have things on at different times (crafty Tuesday, half term crafts on a Friday) and to top all of this off, free wifi!If all cafe's were run this family focused and friendly then I would enjoy taking my little boy out. Thank you to the lovely owners who have always catered for us regardless of how wild my little boy is. The location is fab too, with pushchair friendly paths and an amazing path.
hevarrrr . 2016-10-19
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We have been here numerous times, living so locally. Bacon and Egg Roll always a winner and my elderly Dad loves the Bacon andBrie but without tomato and they always accommodate this. Nothing is too much for them to do, always friendly and welcoming. Definitely a place to visit if you are in the area or live locally and want a reliable place to snack. Well done all...
christerry1971 . 2016-08-22
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This is an ideal place for families to come or mums to meet for coffee and play date as there are toys and sofas as well as baby bouncers and playmates in a seperate room so kids can play as well as being on the grounds of thornham walks and play area too! Lovely homemade cakes - best choc brownie I've ever had! My only criticism is the storage, Hoover etc in the kids play area looks unsightly and could be screened off - perhaps another table and chairs in thier would make this room ideal!!!
Belinda H . 2016-08-21
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We were camping nearby and ended up eating in this cafe every day for lunch or just coffee and cakes. I rate this cafe very highly for anyone, especially those with dogs or small children or cyclists.
kenballen . 2016-08-21
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We stopped for a quick bite after a walk around the park. Good selection of sandwiches and paninis. I had the brie, bacon and cranberry panini with a side of chips... Unfortunately the portion of chips was very small and we had to pay an extra £1.50. The waitressing staff were very friendly and the food came out promptly. There's an outdoor seating area which makes things easier if you've got a dog like us.
nearlyvegan . 2016-08-15
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Five old work friends getting together for a quick lunch that is local and easy to find. Such a lovely place. It was a sunny, but breezy day in gorgeous surroundings. Food is good value but exceptionally good - everyone was pleased with what they chose. Staff are friendly and helpful. We will definitely recommend this to others :)
Shaz W . 2016-08-08
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Quick pitstop from the playground for drinks. My daughter loved her hot chocolate esp with the cream and marshmallows a bargain at £1.50 and the homemade flapjack was lovely and sweet & chewy.Friendly staff as well.
Dave H . 2016-08-05
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Nice service and food. Right on the doorstep of the walks - which also had super cool eco friendly toilets.
Samuel J . 2016-08-04
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Friendly relaxed cafe/ tearoom. Good selection on the menu from cream teas to more hearty meals. Excellent value for money. Very family friendly & with the bonus of the play area of Thornham Walks right outside. Planned to return the following Monday, but disappointed that the were closed.
Barbara R . 2016-08-03
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As we were looking after our grandsons dog we decided to go to Thornham Walks. We have been here several times over many years. On arrival we did a short walk with the dog before returning to the Forge Cafe for our morning elevenses. Before we had even sat down and ordered we were asked if we would like a bowl of water for the dog. The dog was well pleased as it was a rather hot day. However for us I had a sausage roll and hot chocolate and my wife had a cheese scone and a cappochino which were the best we have ever had.After taking the dog for a further walk we returned to the Forge Cafe for lunch. Again fresh water was provided for the dog. We decided to have Jacket Potatoes which went down very well.The selection of food available looks really good. Its all home made and at reasonable prices. What more could you want.? We will definitely be back,dog or no dog. Save me a cream tea!!
colfinart . 2016-07-21
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Called in on a warm Saturday morning and surprised to find the place very quiet. With my brother and daughter, we ordered coffee and sausage rolls, great coffee and outstanding sausage rolls. Will definitely be back.
Greatleapforward2016 . 2016-07-16
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Lovely atmosphere - relaxing and comfortable. Haven't found a coffee as nice for several miles around! Well worth the ten minute journey for lovely food/ drinks in equally lovely surroundings. Have been with friends/ husband and with family of 4 young children - caters for all equally well and the children have the added benefit of a park opposite (in view of the coffee shop). Lovely scones and cakes - fresh and light and lovely crisp hand cut chips!
tessmolden . 2016-07-05
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After a very pleasant walk around Thornham Walks it was a pleasure to sit outside and enjoy a coffee and a snack.
Eric W . 2016-07-04
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Me and my wife were in the area, thought we'd pop in for a cup of tea, had one of the nicest cream teas I've ever had, would definitely recommend. ☕️
Darren B . 2016-06-01
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This is by far the nicest cafe I have ever been to on the grounds of a forest or park. Thornham walks it's self is a beautiful nature reserve/forest/park. Short, medium and all day walks are available and well signposted. The cafe sits near the car park and opposite a fairly large playground. There is out door seating. Unfortunately I do not know my local history, but the cafe is in a very old building which houses a beautiful and fascinating forge. The forge complete with giant bellow and old tools. Must be at least 500 years old. Despite its history, the cafe has quite a contemporary feel. The cakes on display look amazing. I had a cream tea. At £3.50 I wasn't expecting too much. However, they came out to us warmed through with a generous helping of clotted cream and jam alongside a pot of tea. Maybe I haven't been to the right places, but I've never had such a nice cream tea for less than double what they charge. This is a long way from some of the council subsidised park side cafes you see in anglia and the south east. This is a beloved business that the owners have put their souls into. Impeccable service, wonderful setting, great food and a huge selection to choose from. They also have a whole room dedicated to children, so families feel welcome and children can make as much noise as they want. Thus pleasing both families and walkers who like the peace and quiet.
Russellineye . 2016-05-20
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Popped in for a coffee and cake before a Thornham Walk. I had the most delicious piece of carrot cake. Sat in comfortable chairs by the log fire that was burning. Lovely.Great service and friendly staff. Will definitely visit again.
newyorkchick042 . 2016-03-22
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Revamped cafe with really luscious snacks. Great scones, cakes and perfect coffee. Well done to the new owners. Service with a smile
Peterboss . 2016-03-20
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We thought this had closed so were delighted to find it under new management. The bacon and egg baps were really good with "real" fried egg and bacon that tasted superb. My mother in law loves scones and the cheese scone came not just warmed but with butter, chutney and slices of a very tasty cheddar. I had seen very home made looking rocky road cake on the way in and treated myself with a piece to accompany the very nice tea from a seemingly never ending teapot! And to top it all it comes with lovely friendly service.
Marke21bc . 2016-03-12
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I popped in after a walk around the walks with my son. What a beautiful place to have a café. The coffee is very good the paninis are great. What beta way to spent a Saturday afternoon.
russ s . 2016-02-22
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We have been to the Forge since it changed ownership in Oct 3 times and have loved it every time. There is a separate family room for children to play in with a toy kitchen and toys and books. The couple who run it go out of their way to make sure you have an enjoyable experience. Even making little hot chocolates in expresso cups for our toddlers to feel like grown-ups. I recommend you have a wander round the woods or a play in the playground and then enjoy a cosy tea or coffee and a homemade slice of cake! Highly recommend!
Caroline F . 2016-01-18
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We had a Excllent meal with very good service in a relaxing atmosphere in surroundings in the winter months the Forge is really cosey with the logs burning
frost2016 . 2016-01-07
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This cafe has recently been taken over and as we regularly used it before we wanted to support the new owners. We parked in the car park which is adjacent to the play area and walked the few yards to the cafe. It felt cosy as we walked in as the forge was alight. We chose a coffee and mocha accompanied by an enormous tea cake with butter and jam and a brownie with cream on the side, delicious! You order and pay at the counter then the food is brought to you at your table. The owners are very friendly and chatty. There were a few other people also in there, some had just been for a walk and another couple were then going for a walk round the nearby Thornham Walks. A woman came in and confirmed a family Christmas meal for later on in the week and a walker came in to book a group of walkers in for coffee and cake on Sunday and the owner was very obliging! They have a good lunch menu of jacket potatoes, pannini etc and a good variety of cakes too all very reasonably priced. There is seating outside for warmer days too.
Roella . 2015-12-09
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We stopped here after a glorious walk for coffee and cake, at the time the choice was limit and the gift shop was a bit of a mess, saying that I have heard that it has now changed hands of Nov 2015
cc-7 . 2015-11-08
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We called in here late afternoon with one wheelchair n one large dog. What a lovely welcome, the lady made room for our wheelchair and PERCI.This was only the third day of opening ,we enjoyed great coffee n cakes.The forge is lovely with it's amazing feature of the lit forge inside .I really wish these people well , there will more more on the menus as they find their feet, I think it will be a great success .
YogaGirl10 . 2015-10-22
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We can highly recommend the Forge for a really warm welcome and an excellent cup of tea, coffee and cake. Today was the first day the new owners had opened and the kitchen won't be fully operational for another week but we will certainly be back for lunch another day soon. Interior has lovely beams with an open fire, very atmospheric. Good place to take children as next to the play area. This was our first visit to Thornham Walks and thoroughly enjoyed the area. We wish the new owners every success in their new venture.
Sue M . 2015-10-17
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114 Opinions
Best fish and chips in Suffolk so far. We had haddock, chips, and peas. Huge portion, All very enjoyable, we will return from Ipswich.
117 Opinions
I think some more up-to-date photos would help. These pictures are from when The Angel was in the High St. They are now in the Civic Centre The breakfast is still as good as ever. The service and welcome are good and the food is still excellent Only one slight moan and that would be the price of a cup of coffee: £3.50 for a small cup is too expensive
339 Opinions
Excellent in every way, the young staff were really attentive and pleasant, will be going back very soon.
431 Opinions
We used to enjoy our outings to the Gladstone, but it has turned into a dirty, smelly and "clicky" place to eat or drink! Instead of being dog friendly it is more like a dog kennel - dogs annoy non-dog owners by licking them etc and sitting on the seating instead of under the tables. The seats and tables are dirty and the whole place is unhygienic - we will not return and will leave it to the arrogant dog owners who think everybody wants to be licked and dribbled on by their pets!