The Running Duck

Nestled in the heart of Blandford Forum, Dorset, lies a charming café that has become a beloved local gem. The Running Duck, situated at 30A Salisbury Street, is more than just a café; it's a community hub that offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, delicious food, and exceptional service. This comprehensive guide will delve into the main services, location, unique features, and practical information about The Running Duck, ensuring you have everything you need to know before your visit.

• Breakfast and Brunch: The Running Duck is famous for its extensive breakfast and brunch menu, catering to various tastes and dietary preferences. From the traditional full English to vegan options, each dish is prepared with care and fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
• Lunch and Light Bites: For those visiting later in the day, the café offers a range of light bites, sandwiches, and jacket potatoes. Their specials board changes regularly, ensuring there's always something new to try.
• Speciality Coffee: Coffee enthusiasts will appreciate the café's attention to detail in creating the perfect cup. They source their beans from local roasters and offer a variety of brewing methods, from espresso to pour-over.
• Catering and Private Hire: The Running Duck also offers external catering services for events and functions. Their charming café space can be hired for private events, providing an intimate and unique setting.

The Running Duck is located at 30A Salisbury Street, in the heart of Blandford Forum's historic town center. The café is easily accessible on foot, with several parking options nearby. Nearby attractions include the 18th-century Blandford Forum Market, the picturesque River Stour, and the historic Blandford Camp.

• By Car: Several public car parks are available within walking distance, including the Crown Meadow Car Park (DT11 7HZ) and the Market Place Car Park (DT11 7AP).
• By Bus: Several bus services stop near the café, including First Bus services 30 and X10 from Bournemouth and Poole.
• By Train: The nearest train station is Dorchester South, approximately 12 miles away. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to Blandford Forum.

What sets The Running Duck apart is its commitment to sustainability, community, and exceptional customer service. Here are some of its standout features:

• Sustainability: The café strives to minimize its environmental impact by sourcing local, seasonal produce, using biodegradable packaging, and recycling where possible.
• Community Spirit: The Running Duck actively engages with the local community, hosting events, supporting local charities, and providing a space for people to connect and socialize.
• Exceptional Customer Service: The café prides itself on its friendly and attentive service. The staff goes out of their way to accommodate customers' needs, as reflected in many of the positive reviews.
• Dog-Friendly: The Running Duck welcomes well-behaved dogs and their owners, with water bowls and treats available upon request.

• Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM - 4 PM; Saturday, 9 AM - 4 PM; Sunday, 10 AM - 3 PM
• Contact Information: Phone: 7800746219; Address: 30A Salisbury St, Blandford Forum DT11 7AR, United Kingdom
• Payment Methods: Cash, card, and contactless payments accepted
• Wheelchair Access: The café is wheelchair accessible, with a ramp at the entrance and an accessible toilet.

With an average rating of 4.6/5 from 10 reviews on Google My Business, The Running Duck has consistently received praise for various aspects of its business:

• Food Quality: Customers commend the café for its delicious, well-presented, and generously portioned food. The vegan options are also highlighted for their tastiness and variety.
• Service: Staff are frequently praised for their friendliness, attentiveness, and willingness to cater to customers' needs. One customer noted, "The staff were so helpful and polite, and didn’t mind changing anything around."
• Atmosphere: The charming, welcoming, and relaxed atmosphere is often remarked upon, with one customer describing it as "a little slice of heaven."
• Value for Money: Many customers appreciate the reasonable prices and the excellent value for money, with one reviewer commenting, "The food is amazing, and the prices are very reasonable."

These positive aspects highlight The Running Duck's commitment to providing a high-quality, enjoyable experience for every customer.