Community Waffle House opens new 'dream' premises at Trinity House

A dream became a reality this week for the team behind Axminster's hugely-popular Community Waffle House.

After months of hard work, an official opening was held for the Waffle House's new, larger premises on the first floor of the town's landmark Trinity House building.

Having been opened last year by directors Sophie McLachlan, Matt Smith and Tim Whiteway, the Community Waffle House was first based in West Street, but after a proving huge hit with residents and visitors, the not-for-profit cafe has now moved to premises five times the size.

As well as serving up its menu of delicious Belgian waffles, milkshakes and hot drinks, the new-look Waffle House also include a 'Waffle Work' space, which can be used for business meetings, community groups and those working from home who fancy a change of scenery.

Local computer whiz Luke Lawson will also be on hand at his new station to offer technical support, with assistance from Oliver Miller.

At the other end of the cafe, the 'Waffle Play' area with specially-designed soft play for the under fives will open next year. There are also plans to install a stage for live music and performances in the New Year.

The Mayor of Axminster, Cllr Anni Young, cut the ribbon at the new Waffle House this morning (Tuesday) and it will be welcoming the public from Thursday, open 9am to 9pm. Due to COVID-19 regulations, those keen to try out the new-look Waffle are encouraged to book a table in advance.

Taking over the whole of the first floor of the former Trinity House department store, the cafe has been finished to the highest standard thanks to the team from Axminster Property, who are in the process of renovating the entire building.

The space has been given a new lease of life, with lowered ceilings removed and huge windows previously covered up now unveiled to reveal views across Trinity Square and the Minster Green.

The bright and airy cafe has been fitted with handmade wooden counters and and bars, modern light fittings, and is fully accessible with a lift and plenty of space for prams and wheelchairs.

But there is still a glimpse of the past, with a window in the ceiling of the 'Waffle Work' area revealing the 1940s bedrooms discovered on the top floor.

Speaking at the opening event, Waffle House director Sophie McLachlan said she and the team had been dreaming of how they could best use the space for the community for months, but the result was "100 times better" thanks to the hard work of Axminster Property and all those who supported their successful crowdfunding campaign, which raised more than £25,000 towards the move.

She said that the Waffle House was here for the Axminster community, to help people feel less lonely and isolated and would welcome, even if they just wanted to come in for a chat.

Ian Styles, managing director of Axminster Property, said he hoped the opening of the new Waffle House would be an inclusive place for families and like-minded people to work together - a new beginning for Axminster as the local high street makes a comeback following the coronavirus pandemic.

To find out more about the Communoity Waffle House, visit waffle.org.uk

For more on the renovation of Trinity House, look out for our special feature on Axminster Property, coming to the Axminster Nub News website soon!