Larkstone Café and Sportsgrounds c1954
Originally there were 12 Tennis Courts, 8 grass and 4 hard. There was also a mini Pitch and Putt course in the adjacent field. At that time, Hillsborough and the surrounding land stretching down to Raparee and Larkstone beaches sported far fewer mature trees and much less undergrowth than today, so Larkstone Tennis Courts as it was known, must have been a significant landmark for walkers on the coastal paths and day trippers pouring off the Paddle Steamers in the harbour.
Mr and Mrs Teeling in front of the Café c1960
Years of unchecked natural growth and some development above Larkstone beach have obscured the view of the Harbour somewhat, but the wonderful aspect remains, and early summer sunsets framed by Capstone Hill and St. Nicholas Chapel are truly a Shepherd's Delight!
In about 1935, a local couple, Gordon and Irene Teeling took on the Tennis Courts under lease and Larkstone Café and Sportsgrounds was born. They ran it continuously until Mr. Teeling's death in 1963.
In those 30 odd years which included WW2 they established a fine reputation for hospitality, serving locals and tourists alike with delicious Cream Teas, and providing Tennis and Golf for the more energetic ones!
Mrs. Teeling made her own Scones, Jam, Devonshire Cream and even Ice Cream, while Mr. Teeling would hand out sports equipment and tend the spectacular gardens helped by his son Reg. Visitors would come from miles around to take tea at Larkstone. Their legacy remains years later as some locals of a certain age still refer to the Café as 'Teelings'.
Today, the Café and Leisure Park is managed by Mike and Katie Hayward, who are very conscious of the continued importance of maintaining a Café and Sports facility on the site for locals, tourists and families in particular. We are determined to restore some of the peace and tranquility of those earlier times, where Tea and Coffee can be taken out of bone china cups, and traditional Cream Teas, Homemade Cakes and Freshly Prepared Food can be enjoyed all day in unrivalled surroundings.
As parents of 3 children, we realise the importance of Mums and Dads being able to relax while the children play safely, so there is plenty for all ages to do. Younger ones can use the Play Area with climbing frame, tricycles and scooters, or pet Georgina, the Café's resident pet rabbit. Mango and Pepper the cats are usually dozing nearby too. Older children and adults can choose from 6 different games spread across the grounds. Just Pay and Play!
Dogs on leads are also very welcome as we know that there are few places where dog owners can enjoy refreshments, and there will always be a bowl of water for thirsty hounds!
You can see some old pictures of Larkstone Café by clicking here.
Many Thanks to Alison Teeling for kindly providing the photo of her Grandparents, as well as her memories of Larkstone Café in the 1950's and 60's.