Get to know us
The Ark is Northampton’s first and only boat venue. It is the realisation of Northampton local Jack Patel’s dream. He looked at the River Nene and thought it would be the perfect location for a boat to bring people together. After eight long years of planning and gruelling year in build, The Ark was finally finished in 2014.
The result is a beautiful white barge consisting of the dining area, bar, front decking and the open air top deck.
Yes It's A Real Boat
It's been 10 years since we moored up at Midsummer Meadow and we are still constantly asked if the boat is real. Yes it is a real barge which is floating on the river. Thankfully we don't experience much choppy waters so the boat itself is very stable.
Family Business
While the boat is Jack's idea, the cafe and events are managed by his daughter Hema and wife Charlie is the chef on board, responsible for the best Indian food in town.
