Member Article

Local businesswoman launches new Northumberland National Park cafe

The Northumberland National Park Authority has partnered with local businesswoman Sheila Robinson, a move set to enhance the visitor offer in the Ingram Valley.

Sheila has taken over running the NNPA Visitor Centre in the valley, which as well as providing information for tourists, is now home to the newly renovated Valley Cottage Café.

Since launching in the summer, Sheila has welcomed visitors from the local area and tourists from across the country, proving that the centre offers a valued service in the area.

The venture has also boosted employment locally. Sheila is currently employing two staff from the Northumberland area and has plans to increase these numbers as the business grows.

Sheila, who also produces her own jam and chutneys, said: “I live locally so to be able to run the café and information centre at Ingram is fantastic. The response we have had since opening has been brilliant and the feedback from both the local community and tourists has been really encouraging.

“We have plans to expand our offer in the future and we are currently exploring the possibility of doing an evening menu. It’s a very exciting time and I’m very pleased to be able to work closely with Northumberland National Park Authority to restore this excellent facility to its former glory.”

Glen Sanderson, Chairman of Northumberland National Park Authority, said: “The Ingram Valley is a popular location for visitors to the Park and these new facilities will enhance the visitor experience in the area all year round.

“By providing the visitor services at Ingram through the private sector, it offers improved services to those visiting the Park while also maintaining the vitality of the local community.

“It’s such an important facility to the local area as it provides employment opportunities and also supports other local produce businesses. I look forward to seeing the business grow with Sheila at the helm.”