Gem that is Blue Walnut cafe set to sparkle again under new owners

The Blue Walnut Café Bar and Cinema in Chelston, Torquay, is one of our hidden gemstones - a diamond seems appropriate, given its re-opening this April.

For those who are unaware, the beloved venue has now changed hands. Immense appreciation goes out to Richard, who was the custodian of the Blue Walnut for the last seven years where he continued the legacy set in motion by Mike Edmonds over 25 years ago when he founded the community cinema. 

From open mic nights to film clubs and everything in between, Rich played an amazing part in making the Blue Walnut a place where people felt they could belong. A hub of artistic expression, where creativity comes alive and happiness spreads like wildfire - quite the spectacle. 

We wish you well in your future endeavours, Rich. We also welcome on board Marisa, Jamie and Josh Harding who are next in line and will be putting their spin on the place. 

You will be glad to hear that the new team are enthusiastic about getting the space open again during the daytime and evenings, serving food and drinks, continuing with the current community clubs, building off these clubs and helping to champion the arts and culture scene in Torbay. 

Just around the corner, art lovers are also encouraged to check out the open-air gallery that has been set-up. 

The renowned National Gallery have brought the “Art on your Doorstep” pop up exhibition to Torbay, with reproductions of famous paintings appearing in outdoor locations. 

Positioned around Torre Abbey and along Torquay sea front, creating a unique experience where excellent art moves on from museum walls into everyday spaces, where people can encounter them unexpectedly. 

Families walking along the promenade, visitors exploring the abbey grounds and locals enjoying the coastline may suddenly find themselves face-to-face with iconic works of art. 

It is an opportunity to inspire curiosity, spark conversations and encourage people of all ages to engage with culture in a relaxed and accessible way. 

Meanwhile, another significant development has taken place in nearby Cockington. Often seen as a backdoor to Torre Abbey, with the site hidden from public view. Cockington Visitor Centre recently sold at auction after the repercussions of Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust going into liquidation. 

I am glad to deliver news of the outcome, for those unaware. The new owners are Lindsey and Gordon England, who run Weavers Cottage Tea Garden in Cockington Village. 

They are intent on keeping the visitor centre as intended and are welcoming people with an interest in volunteering to make contact. 

They will be extending business into the building as well to return on their investment. You can expect Ice Cream and other goodies of public interest. 

The team hopes to create a welcoming space that celebrates the heritage, nature and creativity of the picturesque village. Cockington has long been one of the most visited areas in Torbay, known for its charming cottages, craft studios and beautiful green spaces. The visitor centre plays an important role in helping people discover everything the village has to offer. It is great to hear that the space is going to be utilised in this way. Please do pop by and show your support for the Cockington community. 

It has been great to see SWISCO in Cockington after taking on the former duties of the Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust and to see the volunteers back and helping to keep the gardens looking splendid for visitors. 

I am also thrilled to share that Cockington Court’s theme for this year is “Show Business”, starting with an Easter egg trail from Good Friday called “Movie Magic”. Reach Outdoors have taken on Warren Barn in Cockington, so you can expect greater opportunities for young people to explore, be imaginative and playful in the area. Excellent news.  Let out your creative side this April and open yourself up to something new.