Northampton's floating vegan cafe announces sad closure after seven years on River Nene
Northampton’s floating vegan cafe has announced its sad closure after seven years on the River Nene.
The Ark, located on the River Nene, off Bedford Road, opened in 2018 as ‘Northampton’s first and only vegan cafe’. However, the business took to social media on Sunday January 18 to announce that the venue will not reopen in 2026.
The decision to close was made to allow one of the owners to “take a step away and take some much-needed rest”, due to ongoing medical issues.
The social media post said: “Back in October 2018, we took a leap and opened Northampton’s first and only vegan café.
“Our boat felt like the perfect setting for this new venture, and we were so excited to showcase a way of life rooted in compassion, community, and good food.
“Fast forward seven years and it’s been a wild ride. We’ve learned so much along the way, fostered the kindest community spirit, and done our very best through some incredibly challenging times.
“But all good things must come to an end, and with heavy hearts we share that The Ark will not be reopening in 2026.
“We want to extend our biggest and most sincere thank you to everyone who has supported us over the past seven years. We especially want to thank our regulars and VIPs who showed up week in, week out. You truly kept us going for as long as we did.
“We hope veganism continues to thrive in Northampton and beyond, and we encourage you to keep supporting your local vegan and independent businesses wherever you can.”
The post was met with hundreds of reactions, as well as dozens of comments from loyal customers who are sad to see the business close.
One said: “This is so sad. Visiting The Ark has been an important part of our weekends. Another wonderful ethical Northampton business going.”
Another added: “So very sad to hear this. The Ark for me started as a mother/daughter meet up venue. Becoming a place I, even though I'm not vegan, would visit on my own for good food, great coffee and even better company.”
The Ark joins many Northampton businesses who have announced their closure since the start of the year, including Saints Coffee and Eccentric Englishman – to name just two.