There was a reasonable sized aquatics centre at Dobbies, Newcastle. It was attractively laid out  with a good selection of fish and accessories.

There was also a pet centre which stocked a range of feeds and accessories. A small range of live animals for sale included hamsters, rabbits and other small mammals.

Dobbies have devoted a large percentage of space to the indoor sales area in common with many of their other garden centres. The range of indoor and outdoor furniture was exceptional. Gifts, cards and books were also well-represented. There was also a large delicatessen with chesses, wines and lots of other tasty-looking food. The butchers stocked an excellent range of meats. Thoroughly recommended by us.

The cafe was modern, clean and laid out in the typical Dobbies formula. The decorations are pleasant and the whole area spacious. The drawback is that the cafe lacks any charm or atmosphere.

The food is to a similar standard. reasonable quantities, and taste but lacking in any area of inspiration.

If you want to grab a snack or meal then this cafe does well. But if you frequent it often or you want to relax over a meal then the clinical atmosphere is a drawback. One definite positive, if the weather is good, is the outdoor seating area.

The service was prompt and pleasant, the range of food on offer rather restricted for a cafe of this size. When we visited there were no main meals specials unless you visited after 5 in the evening - weird, or maybe we misunderstood.

One little gripe we had was the price of the salad. �4.50 for a small salad with one main portion, �6.99 for a larger salad and two main portions. Was it really possible to charge around �2 extra for that small piece of salmon or a slice of ham? Click the meal picture above to get a larger view and form your own opinion.