The Queen Victoria Pub behind Henley Town Hall has been sat silent for a while but not for much longer. Watercolour Arts & Play Cafe is due to open the beginning of November.

So what’s this new venture all about? We spoke to team member Tarcila Broder about the new concept.

“We know the story. ‘Another coffee shop in Henley!’, it doesn’t sound very exciting does it?. But we wanted to open a coffee shop with a different twist that would bring something further to the community. The concept behind Watercolour Arts and Play Cafe, is a very child friendly, child focussed coffee shop which provides a play area, party room and art classes for little ones.

Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic meant that some of our ideas have had to go on hold for now, but we will be able to open as a cafe with a play space by the end of October 2020. There will be lots of wooden educational toys for the little ones to engage with. When our basement space is ready, we will be running instructional art classes for children and relaxation sessions for parents, offering the opportunity to participate in modern mindfulness techniques.

The Watercolour Arts and Play Cafe will offer great coffee, delicious artisanal meals, traditional Italian style pizza and tasty desserts. All the food will be made with local ingredients, as we know the importance of supporting local businesses and fortifying our community.

We see this venture as becoming the heart of Henley where children, parents, carers and friends can meet and have fun together.”

Behind this exciting new project is Esther Payne, supported by her husband Matthew Payne. Residing in Henley and mother to 3-year-old twins, Oliver and Thomas, Esther felt the need for a place where she could meet her friends for food and coffee and where she could take her children without making them feel bored, unsettled or unwelcomed. Without the venue options nearby, Esther decided to embark on this exciting project. Esther’s daughter, Laura Roberge, will manage the cafe.

You can follow Watercolour on Instagram www.instagram.com/watercolour_cafe/