New Victorian-style café inspired by Freddie Mercury quote opens in Northumberland

A quote from Freddie Mercury inspired a Blyth business woman to set up her own unique café in the heart of the town’s Victorian Ridley Park.

In 2014, Beverly Gallon came upon an advert on Facebook for a disused, derelict pavilion building in Ridley Park. With a passion for antiques, upcycling, and the Victorian era she decided to convert the pavilion.

The result is Mister Ridley’s Parlour, a Victorian-inspired café restaurant that uses upcycled “quirky and vintage” furniture acquired from night clubs, bars and auction houses. Unusual lamps, tropical plants in the rafters, and a plush zebra situated at the internal gable end make up the property’s distinct appearance.

Beverley said: “During the last two years we’ve taken the opportunity to really develop the business and change it into something which is a lot quirkier and more fun yet still in keeping with the Victorian park where it is situated.

“I basically bought a wooden shed and renovated it. It was no different to when I upcycle furniture but on a much bigger scale.”

Inscribed in large letters on one internal wall is a quote from Beverley’s musical hero, Freddie Mercury: “I want to live the Victorian life surrounded by exquisite clutter.”

“That sums up Mister Ridley’s Parlour,” she noted. “I really love that quote because when you are in her, it is exquisite, and you can see the clutter which is really pretty and eye-catching, and the building has such a nice atmosphere.

“We’ve taken Victorian style and transported it into the 21st Century. It’s unlike anywhere else in the North East and finally opening to the public is like a dream come true.”