COULD we be too late? Was the venue about to close? Certainly there were signs of clearing up and customers were leaving as we arrived. I looked at a sign by the door and thought the variation in closing time must depend on what was ordered. Anything from 4pm to 4.30pm.

The venue is located in that part of Thorp Arch where the major retail outlets are to be found. This means car parking is no problem, and free!

The caf is self service. There is plenty of choice and an excellent opportunity to see what is on offer, and at what price, before ordering.

Ample seating is provided in the caf proper with a large conservatory annexe. Wheelchair access should be good.

It was a warm afternoon so a pot of tea was a must (£1.35 per person).

At a recent talk we gave, Ann was accused of eating nothing but scones and toasted teacakes. Not true, but on this occasion we would pass on those items.

Ann beat me to choosing the mince tart, and excellent it was with acceptably light pastry. I was equally pleased with a slice of lemon cake with thick, strongly-flavoured icing. The combined cost was £2.65.

Duly refreshed, Ann investigated the greetings cards and range of food stuffs on sale. Meanwhile I had a good look around sizing up other snack possibilities.

Jacket potatoes started at £3.35 and with home-made coronation chicken would set you back £4.99. Freshly-baked quiche and chips was the same price. There were also giant Yorkshire puddings and various salads.

For anyone snacking before 11.30am, a full English breakfast could be had for £4.25.

If the caf intended to close as we walked in, our arrival attracted many more customers at the end of an afternoon's shopping. So the staff were kept busy for a further three-quarters of an hour.

It is unlikely the caf will attract people other than those who have chosen to visit Thorp Arch (or perhaps employees from the many industrial units on the site), so from its size and the number of staff it must be busy at times.

But for a leisurely snack this was a very welcome haven.

Updated: 08:31 Saturday, July 10, 2004