We braved the snowy walk this evening to find out all about the plans for The Boathouse, coming to Glencaple Quay in April. It turns out a lot of other people were unhindered by the conditions and were keen to find out more too!
Lady Mary’s executor Nigel Draffan introduced Lady Clare to the gathering, and suggested that Lady Mary was with us in spirit – she had been very keen to turn the devastating fire at the old teashop into an opportunity for something new and exciting.
Without giving everything away at once, Lady Clare set out her vision for The Boathouse – to serve the local community and to bring people in. She spoke enthusiastically about the considerable changes to the new Boathouse – the physical changes – removing the entrance corridor to provide more space, more windows for the views out to the Nith and Criffel, new decor, a comfy snug area with sofas and armchairs as well as the bistro-style restaurant – whilst maintaining the fundamental purpose of serving the local community with a shop. A ramp for wheelchair access and an accessible toilet have been prioritised.
Lady Clare introduced manager and head chef, Alanna Rogerson, who reiterated the importance of The Boathouse being a core hub for the community – albeit a financially viable one. Emphasis was placed on sourcing quality, local produce to be sold in the shop and used in the restaurant.
Muddy boots will be welcome – the aim is for a warm and welcoming café environment! The team are adaptable and responsive – actively seeking feedback…
What would you like/not like to see sold in the new shop, what’s needed, what will you buy etc.
Alanna told us that the restaurant will serve healthy, fresh food using local, seasonal produce – all made in-house. There is a big push nationally to accommodate vegan and vegetarian diets, and allergies; food will be adapted to suit dietary requirements.
The café will be open six days a week from Tuesday to Sunday, and provisionally for three nights a week around the weekend, with days and times yet to be confirmed. A drinks licence is being considered. It is proposed that the shop’s opening hours will be from 10am ‘til 4pm initially, with earlier access to newspapers depending on demand. The team are open to being responsive to demand, and have some ideas for possible food delivery if the need is there within the community.
Ideas are not short on the ground – a community book swap, a meeting space, film nights and supper clubs to name a few. Tourism will be actively pursued, with consideration also of walkers, cyclists and motorhomers. Parking was discussed and it is hoped that working together to find common ground will bring benefits to all. Look out for information on the community discount membership card – in honour of Lady Mary.
If you couldn’t be at the meeting tonight, or have thought of things you’d like to be considered, please get in touch with The Boathouse team using the email address below. They are keen to listen, and expect the business to change and evolve and to be seen as a community venture. They are also planning another Preview event soon – date to be confirmed!
info@theboathouseglencaple.com
All in all, there was a real buzz of anticipation and excitement about the prospect of The Boathouse at Glencaple Quay, and what it will bring to the Caerlaverock community. We look forward to further details as they emerge!