Turnford and Cheshunt Ponds
A local gem centered around the beloved Old Pond Cafe, offering hearty meals and a friendly atmosphere amidst the tranquil ponds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Enjoy fresh, tasty food
Turnford and Cheshunt Ponds
Best Time
Enjoy fresh, tasty food
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A local gem centered around the beloved Old Pond Cafe, offering hearty meals and a friendly atmosphere amidst the tranquil ponds.
"The Old Pond Cafe is always welcoming, has very good quality food, always friendly, very tasty food."
☕ Cafe is a Must-Visit
The Old Pond Cafe is highly recommended for its tasty food, friendly staff, and good value. A local favorite!
🚴♀️ Great for Cyclists
Perfect spot to refuel after cycling in Lee Valley. They offer hearty portions and a welcoming atmosphere.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Old Pond Cafe Delights
Cheshunt Old Pond
Hearty, well-cooked meals like humongous fish and chips or perfectly cooked steak. Great value and friendly service.
The Iconic Roundabout Fountain
Cheshunt Old Pond
The central roundabout with its fountain is a recognizable landmark, symbolizing the heart of the town.
Cycling Routes in Lee Valley
Surrounding Lee Valley
Perfect post-cycle refuel spot. Explore scenic cycling paths in the nearby Lee Valley before or after your visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Local Charm
Cafe Focus & Local Life
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☕ Cafe is a Must-Visit
The Old Pond Cafe is highly recommended for its tasty food, friendly staff, and good value. A local favorite!
🚴♀️ Great for Cyclists
Perfect spot to refuel after cycling in Lee Valley. They offer hearty portions and a welcoming atmosphere.
💰 Excellent Value Meals
Reasonably priced food, especially if you catch special offers. Portions are generous and satisfying.
🌟 Hygiene Rated
Rest assured, the cafe boasts a 5-star hygiene rating, ensuring a safe and pleasant dining experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
☕ Cafe is a Must-Visit
The Old Pond Cafe is highly recommended for its tasty food, friendly staff, and good value. A local favorite!
🚴♀️ Great for Cyclists
Perfect spot to refuel after cycling in Lee Valley. They offer hearty portions and a welcoming atmosphere.
💰 Excellent Value Meals
Reasonably priced food, especially if you catch special offers. Portions are generous and satisfying.
🌟 Hygiene Rated
Rest assured, the cafe boasts a 5-star hygiene rating, ensuring a safe and pleasant dining experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Old Pond Cafe for its delicious, generously portioned food and friendly service, making it a local favorite. While the surrounding area has seen changes, the cafe remains a strong community hub. Some note the area isn't a major tourist destination but offers a pleasant local experience.
"What is on my plate isn't on the standard menu as I almost never have standard menu foods as I like variety 😅
The old pond cafe is always welcoming, has very good quality food, always friendly, very tasty food.
The sirloin steak was cooked to perfection and it was perfect thickness for a steak.
I would 💯 recommend this cafe and I do visit the old pond cafe almost once a week.
Keep up the good work 👏 👍🙏🧿"
Nidai Omar
"Cheshunt old pond is amazing. It's my home town and I love it. The roundabout with the old pond fountain is the centre of the town. A bit disappointing that all the banks and independent shops have closed. We still have Tesco's!. Small restaurants and cafes mainly. Would require a few pubs as all have shutdown!!!"
Nada Rusich
"Tried this cafe with my 10 year old son after a day of cycling around Lee Valley... They do a good variety of 'cafe food' - all day breakfasts (veggie option too), roast, baked potatoes, omlete, salads and much more. We both opted for the fish & chips and when it arrived the portion size was humongous! Was well cooked and very tasty.... It is already very good value but as they are taking part in eat out to help out - it really did make it a real bargain... The staff were also friendly and helpful and I was happy to see 5 stars on the hygiene rating certificate. We will definitely pop in again when we are in the area :)"
Reema Dreaming
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Turnford and Cheshunt Ponds are accessible by car, with parking available near the Old Pond Cafe. Public transport options include local bus routes that serve the Cheshunt area. For those arriving by train, Cheshunt Station is the closest, requiring a short bus or taxi ride to reach the ponds.
Yes, there is parking available, particularly near the Old Pond Cafe, which serves as a central point for visitors. It's advisable to arrive earlier on weekends to secure a spot.
Absolutely! The area is well-connected to cycling routes within Lee Valley Park, making it a popular destination for cyclists looking for a scenic ride and a place to rest.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, visiting the ponds themselves is free of charge. Access to the natural areas is open to the public. The Old Pond Cafe operates independently and does not require an entry fee.
The ponds and surrounding parkland are generally accessible from dawn till dusk. The Old Pond Cafe has its own operating hours, typically serving meals throughout the day.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main activities include leisurely walks around the ponds, bird watching, and enjoying the natural scenery. It's also a popular spot for cyclists to stop and refuel.
Yes, there are paths around the ponds suitable for gentle walks. These trails offer pleasant views of the water and surrounding greenery.
The ponds offer scenic views, especially during sunrise or sunset, making it a pleasant spot for casual photography. The roundabout fountain is also a notable feature.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Old Pond Cafe is the primary dining option, located centrally. It's highly praised for its quality food, generous portions, and friendly service. +1
The cafe offers a variety of 'cafe food,' including all-day breakfasts (with veggie options), roasts, baked potatoes, omelets, salads, and popular dishes like fish and chips.
The Old Pond Cafe offers a veggie option for their all-day breakfast, and other dishes like baked potatoes and salads can often be adapted. It's best to inquire directly about specific vegan options.
Reviews suggest the food is reasonably priced and offers excellent value, especially considering the portion sizes. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Families can enjoy gentle walks around the ponds, providing a safe and pleasant environment for children to explore. The proximity to Lee Valley Park also means opportunities for cycling or simply enjoying open green spaces, making it a versatile destination for a family day out.
🚴♀️ Active Travelers & Cyclists
Visitors can plan a route that incorporates a visit to the ponds, enjoying the scenic beauty before or after their ride. The cafe's welcoming atmosphere and substantial food offerings make it an ideal reward after a period of physical activity.
🚶♀️ Leisurely Walkers & Nature Lovers
It's also a spot for bird watching and enjoying the simple beauty of the local environment. Combined with a visit to the highly-rated Old Pond Cafe for a comforting meal, it makes for a perfectly unhurried day out.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Cheshunt: The Old Pond Cafe
Beyond the food, the cafe is recognized for its commitment to hygiene, proudly displaying a 5-star rating. This attention to detail, combined with reasonable prices and good value, makes it a reliable choice for a satisfying meal. Whether you're a local or a visitor, the Old Pond Cafe offers a taste of authentic community life and hearty, well-prepared dishes.
It's worth noting that while the cafe thrives, the surrounding town center has seen changes, with many independent shops closing. However, the Old Pond Cafe stands as a testament to enduring local businesses and a place where good food and warm service continue to be celebrated.
Exploring the Lee Valley Connection
The park itself provides extensive walking trails and opportunities for bird watching, making the ponds a peaceful spot for nature enthusiasts. The natural beauty of the ponds, combined with the accessibility of the wider Lee Valley, offers a refreshing escape into nature without straying too far from urban amenities. The area encourages a blend of active pursuits and relaxed enjoyment of the outdoors.
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