Curlew Cafe, Railways and Shanties:
5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Curlew Cafe at High Farm Holiday Park
I recently had the pleasure of attending an evening at the Curlew Café with the Auckland Shanty Singers and the Friends of the Stockton & Darlington Railway, and the experience exceeded expectations on every level.
The Curlew Café itself is a welcoming and characterful venue. The interior strikes a balance between comfort and charm, making it an ideal setting for both casual dining and special events. The staff deserve particular recognition: they were attentive, respectful, and genuinely polite, ensuring that every guest felt well looked after without being intrusive. Their professionalism enhanced the overall atmosphere and made the evening flow seamlessly.
The food was superb — fresh, flavourful, and well-presented. Each dish was crafted with care, offering a standard of dining that rivals many larger establishments. The drinks menu was equally impressive, with a range of options to suit different tastes. The cocktails, in particular, stood out; balanced, beautifully made, and highly recommended for anyone visiting.
Adding to the evening was the performance by the Auckland Shanty Singers. Their music brought history vividly to life, transporting the audience back in time with stirring renditions that perfectly complemented the heritage focus of the Friends of the Stockton & Darlington Railway. The combination of live music, heritage storytelling, and excellent hospitality created a unique cultural and culinary experience.
The Curlew Café is not just a place to eat — it is a venue worth seeking out. Whether you come for the food, the drinks, the service, or the events they host, it is a must-visit destination in the area. I left thoroughly impressed and look forward to returning.
Tonight was my first time seeing the Auckland Shanty Singers live in person — and what an absolute treat it was! 🎶
As someone who adores shanties, this performance was the perfect way to spend an evening.
The Friends of the Stockton and Darlington Railway created such a warm, welcoming event, (we purchased our tickets from them) and the singers’ harmonies and energy were nothing short of captivating. I’m so glad I finally made it along, just as I promised — thank you for an unforgettable night of incredible vocals!
Sarah Wingfield ❤️