Lakeside Bistro, Beacon Park, Lichfield

In the last couple of years Lichfield’s Beacon Park has benefited from a multi-million pound makeover, which included a major upgrade to the play areas.  From baby swings and sandpits to a go kart track and rope swings, there is plenty here to keep children of most ages entertained.  My Thomas the Tank Engine obsessed son loves the red train in the middle of the younger children’s play area and the huge pirate ship where he likes to steer and walk the plank. 

 

There is also plenty of space for ball games and paths for riding bikes and trikes, benches and seats for picnics and on selected days you can ride donkeys.  The whole area is clean and well maintained, and the play area is very sensibly gated to keep your toddlers from straying into the lake!

 

Built as part of the overall upgrade, the Lakeside Bistro opened in spring 2012 in a great location next to the children’s play area.  This, and Chandlers Café at the Bird Street entrance to the park are owned and run by Chandlers, one of Lichfield’s favourite restaurants.  The Bistro does a full range of coffees, drinks (including alcohol) and snacks and has a reasonable breakfast and lunch menu, including specials from the restaurant.  It also does takeaway coffee if you want to drink your latte while your children play. 

Round up

Café Latte price:  £2.20

Favourite cake: the homemade chocolate chip cookies at £1.50

Child friendly highlights: high chairs and baby changing in the Bistro, kids menu from £3 - £4.50 for mains, party packages

Buggy friendly: yes, park and Bistro are all very accessible

Car parking: Easiest and cheapest parking is on Shaw Lane (20p for 2 hours up to 3.30pm).  But don’t park on the lines, or in anything other than a marked space –the Lichfield parking attendants are merciless.

Verdict
So far we’ve only been there when it’s been quiet, and I’ve yet to see how they cope with a busy day, but the Bistro has added a lot to the park.  Even on a cold day we can spend a happy hour here.