Y Caffi at Greenfield Valley in Holywell celebrates a busy first six months

There is a new heart to Greenfield Valley. Y Caffi, the café at the 70-acre heritage park in Holywell, has enjoyed a busy first six months since reopening, and it has quickly become a meeting place for families, walkers, runners and dog owners.

Café manager Carrie-Anne Jones lives a stone's throw from the Valley. Originally from Maes Gwyn, she spent much of her career in hospitality and retail, taught herself to cook and always dreamed of running her own café. "I grew up coming to Greenfield Valley and have brought my own family here over the years, so to now be running the café is a dream come true," she said.

"The first six months have been incredible. We already have loyal customers who come in every week, alongside dog walkers, runners, walking groups, families and visitors from across North Wales and further afield. What I love most is that it's becoming a real community hub."

The café has created 12 local jobs, and more than 50 people applied following an open recruitment event before it launched. The growing team includes young people learning barista, customer service and hospitality skills, with chefs Sally Pritchard and Andy Jackson leading the kitchen.

The refurbishment was supported by UK Shared Prosperity Funding as part of a wider £493,629 programme backed by UKSPF and Flintshire County Council. Trustee Conrad Jones said profits are reinvested into Greenfield Valley.

As winter approaches, the new seasonal menu features locally sourced and homegrown ingredients, including apples, honey and vegetables from the Valley and its allotment. "We want the menu to reflect where we are and the seasons," Carrie-Anne said. Every Wednesday the café hosts Community Wednesday, with a community cuppa, puzzles and book swaps, and plans include a sheltered dog-friendly outdoor area and a click-and-collect service.

Greenfield Valley itself is a registered charity, home to woodland, lakes, streams, ancient monuments, historic factories, a museum and an adventure playground, with around 2,000 years of history to explore.

Y Caffi is open seven days a week, with free accessible parking. Find out more about the café and the park's events at greenfieldvalley.com.