Thanks for the info, ladies - it sounds as though it hasn't changed since I was there a while ago. It's a shame as I loved the Japengo restaurant they had many moons ago, I was half hoping there might be something similar there now...! Costa sounds a touch too quiet for my purposes though - on to plan B!
There is a costa coffee in the arts centre, and a small kiosk in the main reception building.
The main restaurant has been closed for a while - should be reopening soon.
My information is hardly current, but when I went in the summer there was a Costa on site, in the part where they sell handicrafts (on the right hand side as you stand in the car park). I'm a non member so I know it was OK to enter without membership, but it was completely dead in there so whether you'd want a private chat with your friend in there is a different matter - anyone who is in there will hear everything you are saying as there are no distractions! You will certainly get quiet if that's what you really want!
Does anybody know if there is a cafe in the ladies' club which is open in the evening? Last time I went they were refurbishing and there wasn't anything much open. And, secondly, is it possible for non-members to use the cafe? I'm looking for a quiet venue to meet a friend... all suggestions gratefully received!
Many thanks!