Fulham Palace est 704 (Museum Cafe 01)

Along with another Kids in Museums volunteer (Laura) I set out on a very sunny Tuesday to view the charming setting of Fulham Palace museum. Neighbouring the Thames but hidden away in the autumn colour trees the retired Bishop of London’s residence has been on this site since 704. We decided to first ramble around their beautiful walled garden and the orchard, before we entered the house through the main court yard and past the exquisite fountain centre piece. As we had some time to kill while waiting for the exhibits to open (Saturday – Wednesday, 1pm – 4pm) we headed to the Drawing Room Café.

 

                                   

Situated at the back of the property the café offers a fine view onto the lawn. The waiters were incredibly welcoming and we sat contemplating what to snack on. We both ordered a latte and agreed that it was good quality coffee. We were easily persuaded to get a cake as they promptly rolled out of the kitchen and into our view. There was a vast collection including for the free-from eaters a gluten free cake and some seasonal spooky snacks. I had a toffee chocolate brownie and Laura ate carrot cake. Both were delicious, reasonably priced and of high quality.

The space was modestly decorated and had hints of its previous use as a drawing room. The Fire was lit while we sat there but it was already very cosy. The facilities were outstanding, I especially liked the extra family room that housed toys for the young children and also the outdoor tables that meant the children could go off and play while their parents relax, keeping an eye on them from a distance.

When the museum spaces opened we ambled through. Although the exhibits aren’t particularly big the research information and displays were well laid out and presentable. Staff were chatty and even told us unique stories that weren’t on the display boards. The only thing it could have done with was more obvious signage to say the Chapel was also open as this area is quite a distance from the main visitor area.

                               

I’ll finish by saying that it was a tranquil and sweet little place with the fattest squirrels I’ve ever encountered. Overall they have done a very good job with the exhibition space and created a family friendly atmosphere.

For more information on the museum click on the links.