Mottisfont Cafe - Test Valley

The Natty Trust always has delightful cafes with delicious cakes in beautiful settings. They offer traditional cakes like Victoria sponge, flapjacks, and coffee... read more The Natty Trust always has delightful cafes with delicious cakes in beautiful settings. They offer traditional cakes like Victoria sponge, flapjacks, and coffee walnut, which is a rarity in today's world of vegan alternatives. The staff are always extremely polite and helpful. However, I am unsure why they provide disposable wooden cutlery and throwaway cups, which does not seem sustainable.

There are two cafes located at Mottisfont Abbey. Last year, we only visited the Old Kitchen cafe because the Coach House cafe and courtyard were full. However,... read more There are two cafes located at Mottisfont Abbey. Last year, we only visited the Old Kitchen cafe because the Coach House cafe and courtyard were full. However, this time, on a quiet weekday afternoon, the Coach House cafe was empty with staff having very little to do. The menu at the Coach House is light and snack-based, served on plant-based disposable tableware. In contrast, the Kitchen cafe offers hot meals, salads, and more substantial options on standard tableware. We decided to try both cafes this time and found that although the Kitchen cafe was bustling during lunchtime, it was challenging to find a available table due to customers occupying large ones. The courtyard cafe, on the other hand, had plenty of seating options, albeit with a more limited menu selection. Nonetheless, the courtyard setting is a lovely spot to enjoy your meal outdoors if the weather permits.

The restaurant is a bit expensive, but acceptable. They did not have many options for people with food intolerances, as the staff had to check a folder to see w... read more The restaurant is a bit expensive, but acceptable. They did not have many options for people with food intolerances, as the staff had to check a folder to see what options were available. This caused a slight issue at the checkout, which was a bit embarrassing. It would be greatly improved if the food items were properly labeled.

Having entered Mottisfont in high temperature we decided that we would have a drink to boost the fluid intake before our walk. There was plenty of seating in th... read more Having entered Mottisfont in high temperature we decided that we would have a drink to boost the fluid intake before our walk. There was plenty of seating in the courtyard (dogs allowed) and also inside. I choose a bottle of sparkling water whist my wife inexplicably opted for a latte! The latter came in a plant based cup that was fully recyclable. (Well done NT). There was plenty of food and drink options available.

We visit Mottisfont regularly and usually make time for coffee and cake while there. The setting and food/drinks offer in the main courtyard cafe are great but... read more We visit Mottisfont regularly and usually make time for coffee and cake while there. The setting and food/drinks offer in the main courtyard cafe are great but something just doesn't work when they get busy even when there are plenty of staff around and it is common to wait 20 plus minutes at the self service counter. Not sure exactly what the issue is but there isn't the same efficiency you see in a well run coffee shop or roadside services at peak times. Am sure a bit of tweaking could improve things and a good old fashioned time and motion study might be in order!