PAYING a second visit to the Castle Howard estate in as many weeks, we spotted what looked like a barn conversion. Beside it was a prominent sign, "caf".

There is a large car park and wheelchair access to the caf is excellent.

The building is shared with a specialist travel agency that was previously located in Hovingham.

The caf has a smart tiled floor and vaulted roof. We sat on comfortable tip-up seats at one of the glass-topped round tables.

The menu was simple. Tea (£1.25 to £1.60), coffee and hot chocolate (£1.25) were very reasonably priced in comparison to some venues we have visited recently. Ann required little persuasion to order a pot of tea which came with fresh milk, and without asking, a jug of hot water.

Ann also requested shortbread. Two large triangular pieces (75p) provided excellent value for money, especially as one piece found its way home for my supper!

Deciding on something more substantial than a scone or muffin was not difficult. A roasted vegetable plait (£1.60) was tempting but, in the end, croque monsieur (£3.25) won the day. This toasted sandwich contained grilled ham and cheese. The garnish of tomato, cucumber, apple, grapes and leaves was just right.

In the interest of my waistline I declined the apricot tart.

Our mid-afternoon visit was too late to sample the daily specials which are available from midday to 2.30pm.

This is not a venue that is on a busy tourist route unless heading for Castle Howard or Hovingham. However, it is only two miles or so from the A64 and could be worth a short diversion.

Updated: 08:39 Saturday, November 27, 2004