Christmas at The Longholme
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Brunch with Santa
Mark your calendars for December 13th or 20th and join us for a delightful festive brunch at The Longholme! Rumour has it that Santa and his trusty elf will be making special appearances at select tables to spread some holiday cheer. While there is no entry fee, a £10 per person minimum spend will apply. This amount is paid at the time of booking and will be deducted from your food and drinks bill during your visit. Please note that these deposits are non-refundable. Children will also receive a fun gift! Parents, don’t forget to leave Santa some hints in your booking notes, including your children's names, ages, and hobbies to enhance the magic at your table! -
Book now! Space will be limited.
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Festive menu
Indulge in the enchanting spirit of the season with our irresistible limited offerings. Wrap your hands around a cup micro-bubble rich Baileys hot chocolate. For those who crave a little spice, our aromatic spiced amaretto chai will tantalise your senses with its perfect blend of exotic flavours. No festive celebration is complete without a glass of our sumptuous mulled wine, infused with the heartwarming essence of Christmas spices. This special menu will be available alongside our main menu from November 14, 2025, until the season's closing. Don't miss the chance to indulge in these seasonal delicious delights. Take a look here and let your festive journey begin with The Longholme!
More about The Longholme
Our unique venue
Hidden back from the main road over the river you can find us on Longholme Island between the upper & lower River Great Ouse. Join us for breakfast, lunch or hire one of our boats. Our humble venue is open to all and has been refurbished to benefit all who use the river & local area. The Longholme Café sits lake side with ever changing views, plentiful wildlife and a guarantee that you and your party take away with you something that we like to call 'The Longholme Life' - let us look after you, enjoy the view, love the people you're with and let us do the rest.
Our food and Drinks
With many years hospitality experience, this independent cafe in Bedford won't let you down. We are one of the few places to offer recreational boat hire in Bedfordshire & proud of it. Our food and beverage choices have been carefully selected and lovingly prepared to ensure the best quality at an affordable price. We pride ourselves on good coffee and local fresh foods with regular seasonal changes and special dishes available. Vegan and Gluten free options.
A brief history
Established in 2017 the previously known "boating lake cafe" is loved by many for it's location. In the years since we have established a new, hospitality focussed offering with all areas of the property modernised. We peak into our prime through the summer season but remain open all year. Owned and managed by experienced local hands, we operate with the consistency of a bigger brand but keep the personal touches you would expect from your local cafe.
Mini Landmark Golf
Over at our sister location, The Kiosk in Russell Park we have recently opened a new 12 hole landmark miniature golf course. Click below to find out more about this activity - links to website.
Work with us!
Take a look at some open or up coming job opportunities here. Seasonal and full time positions updated on our jobs page.
What to expect
Quality Food
Homemade Drinks
Quality Food
Order from our menu or pick from our display fridge. Don't forget our dedicated children's choices & delicious fresh cakes!
Great Coffee
Homemade Drinks
Quality Food
Ground to order every time.
We love coffee and want you to enjoy every cup with us. All varieties served with decaffeinated choices & Organic herbal teas also available.
Homemade Drinks
Homemade Drinks
Homemade Drinks
This summer try our homemade Iced teas or one of our iced coffees. Enjoy them to stay or to take away
in a biodegradable cup on your walk.
Loyalty card
Our Sister site
Homemade Drinks
Rewarding loyalty -
Collect stamps on hot drinks and get one on us! T&C's apply.
Dogs welcome
Our Sister site
Our Sister site
With lots of places to roam and run The Embankment is a perfect dog walk, more so with a coffee or light breakfast. Treats available!
Our Sister site
Our Sister site
Our Sister site
Fresh juice, smoothies, great coffee
18 hole putting, table tennis + more
Across the river in Russell Park.
Other Services
Boat Hire
Event Catering
Event Catering
Our boat hire is open seasonally from Easter break - October.
Opening times and days vary.
Event Catering
Event Catering
Event Catering
We bring the buzz to you! Meet Floss our mobile coffee bar. Available for private, corporate and pop up events.
Mini Golf
Event Catering
Mini Golf
Over at The Kiosk in Russell Park we have recently opened a new 12 hole landmark miniature golf course!
Gift cards and experiences
Give the gift of choice with our cafe gift cards! Perfect for any occasion, these cards can be used for a variety of beverages and snacks at our cozy cafe. Treat your friends, family, or colleagues to a relaxing coffee break or sweet treat. Purchase a gift card today and share the love of good food and great company.