The Castle Cary train station cafe, known as The Creamery, is a unique dining establishment located at the heart of Somerset’s transportation hub. This cafe offers a blend of local cuisine, historical ambiance, and convenient access for travelers and locals alike. The Creamery stands out for its diverse menu, featuring locally-sourced ingredients and innovative dishes, all served within a beautifully restored railway building. With its strategic location and commitment to quality, The Creamery has become a notable destination for food enthusiasts and casual diners passing through Castle Cary station.
What Makes The Creamery at Castle Cary Station Unique?
The Creamery at Castle Cary station distinguishes itself through several key features:
- Historical Setting: Located in a restored railway building, the cafe offers a unique dining atmosphere steeped in local history.
- Local Cuisine: The menu showcases Somerset’s culinary heritage, featuring locally-sourced ingredients and regional specialties.
- Convenience: Situated directly at the train station, it provides an ideal spot for travelers to dine or grab a quick bite.
- Diverse Menu: From hearty main courses to light snacks and desserts, The Creamery caters to various dietary preferences and meal times.
What Can You Expect from The Creamery’s Menu?
The Creamery offers a diverse range of dishes that cater to different tastes and dietary requirements. Here’s a snapshot of their menu offerings:
Main Courses
- Butcher’s cut steak (1172kcal)
- Lloyd’s lamb merguez sausages
- Fish of the day (1087kcal)
- Roasted smoked aubergine (vegetarian/vegan option)
Starters and Light Bites
- Newt-produced mozzarella with lemon zest and Babylonstoren olive oil
- Glasshouse tomatoes with waterlip cheese
Desserts
- Buffalo milk gelato and sorbets
- Hangop (Dutch/South African yogurt dish) with Somerset strawberries
While specific prices are not fully listed in the available sources, the menu reflects a commitment to quality ingredients and creative culinary approaches.
When Is The Creamery Open for Business?
The Creamery operates with different hours for its Grab & Go service and full restaurant dining:
Grab & Go Hours
- Monday to Friday: 7am–5pm
- Saturday and Sunday: 8am–5pm
Restaurant Hours
- Monday and Tuesday: Lunch 12–3pm
- Wednesday to Friday: Lunch & Dinner 12pm–10pm
- Saturday: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 8am–10pm
- Sunday: Breakfast & Lunch 8am-3pm
These varied hours accommodate both early morning commuters and evening diners, making The Creamery a versatile dining option throughout the week.
How Do Customers Rate Their Experience at The Creamery?
Customer feedback for The Creamery has been mixed, with an overall positive leaning:
- Tripadvisor Rating: 4.0 out of 5 stars
- Ranking: #6 of 11 restaurants in Castle Cary
Positive Feedback
- High praise for the building’s design and historical value
- Appreciation for certain dishes like the pollock and Newt-produced mozzarella
Areas for Improvement
- Some customers found the steak tough and overcooked
- The vegetarian/vegan option was criticized for lack of substance and flavor
It’s worth noting that individual experiences can vary, and the cafe may have addressed some of these concerns since the reviews were posted.
Where Is The Creamery Located and How Can You Access It?
The Creamery is conveniently located at Castle Cary railway station, making it easily accessible by various modes of transportation:
Address
Station Wharf, Castle Cary, Somerset, BA7 7PE
Access Options
- By Train: Direct GWR services from London Paddington, Bristol, and Exeter
- By Car:
- From London: M3 > A303 > A371
- From Bristol: A37 > A371
- From Exeter: A303 > A371
- On Foot: Accessible via a footpath from Castle Cary town centre
Parking
- Station car parking available
- East Car Park: £1 for two hours
- Main Car Park: Blue Badge holder parking
What Are The Creamery’s Sustainability Practices?
While specific sustainability practices are not detailed in the available sources, The Creamery’s use of local ingredients suggests a commitment to reducing food miles and supporting local producers. Some examples include:
- Locally-sourced meats (e.g., Lloyd’s lamb merguez sausages)
- Newt-produced mozzarella
- Somerset strawberries for desserts
Further information on their sustainability initiatives would require direct inquiry with The Creamery or The Newt in Somerset, which operates the cafe.
How Does The Creamery Cater to Dietary Restrictions?
The Creamery appears to offer options for various dietary needs:
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Roasted smoked aubergine dish
- Gluten-Free: While not explicitly mentioned, dishes like the fish of the day may be adaptable
- Dairy-Free: The presence of vegan options suggests dairy-free alternatives may be available
For specific dietary requirements, it’s advisable to contact The Creamery directly or check their most current menu for detailed allergen information.
What Special Events or Promotions Does The Creamery Offer?
Information about special events or promotions at The Creamery is not provided in the available sources. However, given its association with The Newt in Somerset and its unique location, it’s possible that the cafe may participate in:
- Seasonal menu changes
- Railway-themed events
- Local food and drink festivals
To stay informed about any special offerings, interested diners should check The Creamery’s official website or social media channels regularly.
The Castle Cary train station cafe, The Creamery, offers a unique dining experience that combines local flavors, historical charm, and convenient access for travelers and locals alike. While there’s room for improvement in some areas, its distinctive setting and diverse menu make it a noteworthy destination in Somerset’s culinary landscape.
References:
1. https://wineddinedandrested.com/2024/07/13/the-creamery-at-castle-cary-station-what-a-building/
2. https://thenewtinsomerset.com/TheCreamery
3. https://thenewtinsomerset.com/assets/misc/creamery-menu_place-mat-paper_463x334_prices_30may24.pdf