Scone Spy finds a hidden gem in Bothwell’s Chapterhouse Cafe

THERE’S a perception about church cafes…they’re a bit too homely or they’re only for members of the congregation.

But pulling up a pew at The Chapterhouse Café, I soon realise this couldn’t be further from the truth.

After a wander around the simply stunning Bothwell Castle, we’re a little parched, a little peckish and a little in need of a seat.

The mighty medieval relic, perched on the banks of the Clyde, is bigger and grander than we gave it credit for and we’ve worked up an appetite.

Finding somewhere to stop in the tiny town of Bothwell was a challenge. There are plenty of pubs and restaurants, but not much in the way of cafes.

It was only on stopping a local to ask that we were pointed in the direction of The Chapterhouse, which sits in the shadow of the beautiful Bothwell Parish Church.

And what a hidden gem it proved to be.

The café, housed in a glass-fronted conservatory, is part of a bustling building which hosts an array of community classes, from toddler groups to adult yoga.

It’s a hub which brings people of all ages, from too cool for school teenagers to yummy mummies with their bonnie babies in tow, not to mention the group of golden girls in the soft seats in the corner who love to lunch.

In fact, there doesn’t seem to be a generation this establishment hasn’t connected with.

And we can only guess that’s something to do with the hearty, homemade food.

There’s a varied menu, from all-day breakfasts to soups, salads and sandwiches.

It all looks so good that we’re hard pushed to choose but eventually opt for the French toast with bacon and maple syrup and a B.L.T panini.

It’s a busy lunchtime, but the staff are serving speedily with a smile – and the waitress swoops in like an angel in disguise when an elderly lady knocks over her coffee.

Within seconds, the table has been wiped, the floor mopped, the woman’s blushes spared.

We only saw the drama unfold as we were at the next table, but the rest of the customers are oblivious.

When lunch arrives, both are wholesome portions but disappear faster than a nervous bride hurrying down the aisle.

And then, of course, it’s time for a cuppa and a scone.

The freshly-baked treats are clearly a favourite as by 2pm there are no plain ones left. We do have a choice between fruit and treacle, though.

The generous-sized scone is served with jam and butter.

It’s perfect…crumbly but not too hard on the outside, nice and spongy inside and with just the right amount of raisins.

The marvellous mural on the skylight provides the perfect view to kick back, relax and pour another cuppa.

We don’t mean to preach, but this is one church café everyone should visit.

Warm Welcome 9/10

Location, Location 9/10

Scone Score 9/10

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