Featured Farm Shop – Flitvale

​Situated near Flitwick, Flitvale Farm Shop is an independent, family run farm shop.
Located on site along with Flitvale Garden Centre, this fabulous farm shop offers an amazing selection of fresh produce sourced from local independent suppliers.
​The licensed cafe offers an extensive menu including delicious lunches, homemade cakes & freshly prepared breakfasts.    
Flitvale not only have a florist, a pet store (including food & accessories, even for the hedgehog!) fencing, indoor & outdoor plants and fresh farm produce they even offer a loyalty card where you can earn yourself points and/or promotions.  
​Great stuff…definitely a Fabulous Farm Shop.
​
​To locate Flitvale Farm Shop & all other Bedfordshire farm shops, click HERE

 OPENING TIMES:
 Mon-Sat 9am-5pm
 Sun- 10am-4pm
 

Featured Producer – Corrymoor Socks

Corrymoor Farm is the home of Corrymoor Mohair socks. We have been breeding Angora goats and producing socks from mohair since 1992.
​Since 1986 we have lived and farmed 128 acres in the beautiful Blackdown Hills AONB. As well as the lovely Angora goats which produce the mohair for Corrymoor Socks, we run a herd of beef cattle. The farm has been fully organic (Soil Association accredited) since 1990.
Known as the “diamond fibre”, mohair is renowned for its strength and durability, lustrous silky smooth fibres and unique wicking properties – the perfect natural material for socks.
The fibres of mohair are 3 times more resistant to abrasion than are the fibres of sheep’s wool and so socks made with mohair last longer and are much more difficult to wear out.
Mohair fibres are smooth and so don’t trap bacteria which cause smells and bad foot
health: no bacteria = no smell.

Corrymoor’s 150 goats are shorn twice a year and produce stunning silky mohair fleeces of between 2kg and 5kg at each shearing. The goats do their best to grow as much mohair as possible but as we sell around 20,000 socks a year, we do have to purchase mohair from other sources as well. The mohair used in the Corrymoor “Devon Stripes” range of socks is shorn entirely from our own flock.
​All our socks are knitted for us on traditional 
machinery in Leicestershire.

Corrymoor Socks enjoy a worldwide reputation for comfort and durability. We offer a
colourful, luxurious and hardwearing range of socks for men, women and children.
​

Whatever the activity, whatever the weather, the hardwearing and ‘no sweat, no smell’
properties of mohair are a massive selling point. From bedsocks to elastic-free socks; from trainer socks to long socks; from hard-wearing cushioned socks to lightweight everyday socks, we have socks for every walk of life.
Corrymoor has a huge loyal following and many of the farm shops we supply find that
people come back again and again for socks. Although Corrymoors are available from our website, for many people seeing and feeling what you buy is all important.

All trade customers are listed on our website with a direct website link.

Corrymoor Mohair Socks
Corrymoor Farm  
Stockland  
Honiton

Devon
EX14 9DY
01404 861 245 

www.corrymoor.com   
​socks@corrymoor.com 

Product Review – Charles Sainsbury-Plaice



If you’re looking to stock quality stationary in your farm shop or country store, then this company is sure to be of interest to you!
​

Charles Sainsbury-Plaice offer the most fabulous range of inspired gifts and cards for all us countryside lovers, from vintage humour greetings cards, traditional birthday cards, ​Christmas cards, wrapping paper, wall planners, British made Aga covers, notebooks & much, MUCH more.   
  
​
​Firstly, ​I have to say, that this review has been one of my most difficult as I love so many of the wonderful designs that it’s nigh on impossible to choose which one to hone in on!

Take ‘​Hare‘ for example…
How beautiful is this? And so fashionable too! 
This stunningly bold greeting card is 15cm x 15cm,  ​(individually wrapped with envelope) & printed on woodland carbon board. 

You’ll find a superb range of artistic greetings cards such as these…
The Goose and Hen are painted by Clare Brownlow using pheasant feathers!
Ot
her artists featured include Bryn Parry, Alex Underdown, Heather Blanchard, Debbie Harris, Colin Blanchard and of course, Charles Sainsbury-Plaice himself.
And it’s not just our feathered friends that are featured either.
There’s a whole range of quality images and prints to choose from including dogs, wildlife & landscape, farming & country, sports, equestrian and cats.
Simply put, there’s a greetings or Birthday
card suitable for anyone and everyone!
​I’ve found that Charles Sainsbury-Plaice’s range of cards, makes me feel rather proud. These images truly celebrate the beauty of Britain’s countryside and the pleasures of rural living…
We all recognise this, don’t we?
Thelwell has to be the most popular countryside cartoonist in Britain and Charles Sainsbury-Plaice is the U.K’s main licence holder.
You’ll find many timeless Thelwell gifts that aren’t 
available anywhere else, including mugs, door signs, wrapping paper, books and greetings cards.
Absolutely the PERFECT gift for pony lovers.
Take a look at the brilliant selection of Christmas cards and gifts available, there’s so much to choose from!
From cutesy, festive cards & British farming related mugs to humerous calender’s & topical hardback books.
Hear the sound of  the countryside with this brilliant range of  ‘noisy cards‘.
​Birdwatchers will love the 
nightingale card as it bursts into birdsong!
These terrifically fun cards are totally unique, are blank (with envelope) and the batteries will last at least 150 openings. You’ll hear the sheep dog barking, the tractor engine revving and the Mallard duck quacking when opening these thoughtful greetings cards.
Spot on
 for Birthday, Father’s Day, Valentines and numerous other occasions, don’t you think?

Why not have a browse through Charles Salisbury-Plaice’s ​brochure and then apply for a wholesale account?

If you have a farm shop product and fancy a review, get in touch with
theteam@fabulousfarmshops.co.uk

Product Review – Tractor Ted

​If you’ve yet to come across Tractor Ted’s series of books then your kids have been missing out…well, the kids AND you!

This week, I thought I’d try Tractor Ted’s ‘Who Goes Moo’ story book. I say TRY because to sit my ‘very busy’ 3 year old nephew down quietly for more than 2 minutes is no mean feat!
WELL, blow me down, a miracle occurred, he was immediately engrossed!

The story, in short, is about Midge the farm dog, a gorgeous little terrier & friend of Tractor Ted’s.
Midge needs to find milk for his owner’s morning cuppa and good old Tractor Ted gives Midge clues as to where he can find it! 
Along the way, in his search, Midge encounters a range of farm animals. The imagery is fabulous and any child and certainly any budding young farmer, would be enthralled & mesmerized by the detailed and ‘real life’ pictures all photographed within the heart of the countryside, in the West Country.

​It’s educational, engaging and entertaining and I have to admit, a really fun read. 
​​
Personally, I love the fact that both Midge and his owner, Farmer Tom, really ARE a genuine, real life, bonafide, farmer and his dog!  
How novel is THAT?

Tractor Ted is a tractor…obviously, BUT he’s a bright green, loveable, tractor and this I believe, goes a long way in helping children get in touch with caring for our
countryside, our animals and to understand at the very heart, of where some of our foods come from…our U.K farms. 
​

Tractor Ted stories are not only educational, they also bring REAL farm adventures to life and it’s easy to see why this little green tractor is already loved by millions of
children.
I can guarantee that reading any one of Tractor Ted’s books will lead ​to the purchase of his whole series.
Tractor Ted isn’t just loved by tractor fanatics you know…
​…I’m rather looking forward to his next adventure myself!

​If you have a farm shop product and fancy a review, get in touch!
email theteam@fabulousfarmshops.co.uk

Product Review – Silver Swift

This fabulous company is just a baby at only 2 years old, but their vision to create a unique range of completely natural, low calorie, ready-to drink spritzers has already come to fruition. 
​

We all know, many ready-to-drink beverages are packed full with sugar & additives, but you can rest assured, that Silver Swift’s range of 100% natural botanical pre-mixed
spritzers have NO artificial nasties, no gluten and they’re vegan friendly too!

By using the delicious fruits and berries Britain’s countryside has to offer,  Silver Swift actively support home-grown industries and are dedicated to operating with the lowest carbon footprint possible.

​

Wild Rose Gin is a light and refreshing, beautiful blend of premium British gin, sparkling water, rose, raspberry, blackberry and a dash of lemon.
This is absolute, floral perfection when served icy cold, better still, garnish with frozen raspberries for a very civilized and very British, tipple.
​


​

​At just 98 calories you can really indulge with Silver Swifts smashing, Orchard Pear Gin Tonic.
This  gently sparkling, deliciously fresh n’ juicy blend of gin, tonic water, pear & elderflower has NO artificial flavourings or colourings and is best served with ice & a slice!
​A perfect alternative to a regular G&T.

​Tipsy Iced Tea Vodka Spritz and Basil Blush Vodka Spritz have won Silver awards in The Global Speciality Spirits Masters.
 
Tipsy Iced Tea Vodka is created using 5 x distilled vodka, sparkling water, gooseberries, elderflower & Earl Grey.
Sounds interesting doesn’t it?
It is! 
This delicious and somewhat unusual sounding blend is not only refreshing and light, it’s also an award-winning tipple. At just 98 calories and only 5% alcohol, I reckon this is the perfect bottle of fizz to accompany your BBQ,
​

​Being rather partial to vodka based products, Basil Blush Vodka is what I was most keen to try….and I wasn’t disappointed! 
By blending premium vodka, sparkling water, strawberries and basil, Silver Swift have really created an exciting an innovative flavour here.
Not only is this low in calories, but by being only 5% alcohol, I can happily sip away at these until the cows come home, and I do, with zero guilt!

All of Silver Swift’s pre-mixed spritzers are created using British Vodka or Gin, contain 100% natural ingredients and are available in glass bottles and handy 250ml, slim cans.

The big, BIG advantage and what I love the most (apart from their unusual flavours that is) is that Silver Swifts range are low enough in alcohol that you can have a few without feeling too tipsy, whilst being light & refreshing – pretty perfect for those warmer days.


​If you have a farm shop product and fancy a review, get in touch with:
theteam@fabulousfarmshops.co.uk

Product Review – Cuckoo Gin

The family-owned Brindle Distillery produce lovingly handcrafted, ‘grain to glass’ gins.
From their base in the heart of Lancashire, Brindle’s small batch and award-winning Cuckoo gins are not only distilled using fresh, natural spring water from their own spring but EVERY ingredient used is ethically & locally sourced or home grown on their farm…even the waste materials are used to heat their still! 
​How’s THAT for
 sustainability?
Currently, there’s 3 gins in Cuckoo’s range, although there’s also limited editions and gin gift hampers available. I’ve been lucky enough to sample Cuckoo’s ‘Collection’ which consists of Cuckoo Signature Gin, Spiced Gin and Sunshine Gin. 

Available in a good range of bottle sizes Cuckoo Signature Gin is a classically smooth, juniper gin with a creamy orange note and a rather unique and lingering peppery aftertaste, a truly spectacular tasting gin.

If you’re considering a winter warmer, look no further.
Let me introduce
 Cuckoo Spiced Gin! 
Made with Tellicherry black pepper, this delicious tipple 
will heat you up from the inside out. 
It sure is bold, certainly warm and really does offer a superb spicy twist!

​​The Cuckoo Collection arrived in this super-duper gift pack and what a fabulous gift this would make…We all know a gin lover, right?
I was really keen to try Cuckoo’s ‘Sunshine Gin‘ and we can confirm that its name lives up to my high expectations!
This summery gin is smooth, sweet and wonderfully refreshing.
By being infused with Lancashire honey and fresh raspberries this mouthwatering gin gives a zingy, fresh n’ fruity taste. 
It’s not shocking to learn that Cuckoo’s Sunshine Gin’ has been voted the BEST flavoured gin by the renowned ‘The Gin Guide’
​I couldn’t agree more!
​….AND THERE’S MORE!
​
Brindle Distillery offer tours AND even a workshop where you can really be ‘hands on!

This 3-4 hours experience is a wonderful opportunity for any gin lover to not only learn, but also see, just how a distillery works, and by selecting your own botanicals you can create your very own gin recipe.
Obviously you’ll be served a few gins along the way (hic!) AND you take home your creation once it’s been signed off by the Master Distiller, of course.
Brindle will also keep your recipe on file so you can re-order your creation via their website in the future!  How brilliant is that?
This fantastic eco-friendly company are clearly committed to making a difference whilst creating their sustainable gins and it comes as no surprise that they’ve already bagged themselves a ridiculous amount of awards including The World Gin Awards, The Spirit Masters Award & The Gin Guide Award (to name but a few!)

If you have a farm shop product & fancy a review, get in touch with
theteam@fabulousfarmshops.co.uk

Product Review – Thornleys Natural Foods

Located in Lancashire, Thornleys Natural Foods is family run business and produce terrifically tasty, gluten AND wheat-free, recipe mixes. 
Not only that, 
​each product in Thornleys range has been approved by the Coeliac Association and are lovingly handcrafted using only 100% ​and carefully sourced,
natural ingredients that are free from additives, colourings, MSG and preservatives!

Sounds good, right?
​Every sauce and mix is suitable for vegetarians and Slimming World approved…

The light and deliciously creamy Parsley Sauce is the perfect accompaniment to a fish dish, whilst the rich Spaghetti Carbonara recipe mix, laces your spaghetti with a
scrumptious garlic coating.
 

Thornleys Creamy Chicken & Herb sauce mix is rich and creamy with a delicate hint of herbs & garlic and the well balanced Chilli Con Carne mix will add a little kick to your dish.
​
​Thornleys sauces give you the ability to cook the tastiest of meals in the most convenient way possible and it’s good to remember, that all these well thought out mixes are 100% natural, so if you follow a gluten & wheat free diet or you’ve chosen to simply say NO to the usual and excessive chemicals, additives & preservatives found in your foods, then the Thornleys range is definitely for YOU!

If, like most of us these days, your time is precious….cheat!
​
A
s it’s a firm favourite in my house, I’ve sampled Thornley’s Tuna Pasta Bake recipe.
You simply add milk to create this incredibly tasty sauce which contains a carefully selected blend of herbs and spices. 
This really 
is packed full of natural flavours & the subtle taste of the herbs brings out the flavour of the tuna. I added a sprinkling of cheese to my creation but you could add any crunchy or crispy topping…scrumptious!

​​​This quick & ridiculously easy mix will provide your whole family with a hearty,
healthy and homemade meal, in a jiffy.

​
 
     See all in Thornleys
  range. Buy online here.
       Get inspired with recipe
           ideas & share yours!
​
Do you have a farm shop product?
​Fancy a review?
Get in touch with theteam@fabulousfarmshops.co.uk

Product Review – Garbanzo Gourmet Snacks

You know what they say about little pickers & what they wear don’t you?
Well, if you’re not overly happy wearing those, you might well want to check out Garbanzo’s healthy range of gourmet snacks.

All of Garbanzo‘s snacks have been approved Vegetarian & Vegan by the Vegetarian Society and Garbanzo state that they take the Chickpea, the whole Chickpea and nothing but the Chickpea…
I’ve taken their advice this week and have had the pleasure of sampling three great flavours.

Firstly & importantly, you can put the lid back on that biscuit tin!
​Garbanzo’s Chickpea snacks are packed with fibre & protein, helping keep your tum fuller for longer, which makes them an incredibly healthy alternative for those in-between meals, nibble.
By working closely with local farmers, Garbanzo can ensure the very best crop of Chickpea’s are selected for their gourmet snacks.

If you’re looking for a light snack that’s still a crowd-pleaser, rest assured, I’ve found it! 
P
acked full of good stuff: antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, Bombay Twist has a spicy curry flavour with a hint of ginger and these nutty and crunchy Chickpeas will have everyone munching… They’re wholesome AND addictive!

Chickpeas are a fabulous source of fibre and great for maintaining a healthy digestive system and Garbanzo’s Mediterranean inspired, Tomato Salsa is bursting with flavour.  
These filling & 100% natural beauties can even help with weight loss. ​they’re
deliciously tasty, low in fat and full of protein, what’s not to love?

Garbanzo’s Sweet Chilli is definitely my bag….no, it really is, hands off!
These are incredibly moreish. I’m not sure if it’s because I can’t resist the unique blend of sweet n’ spice (these are seasoned perfectly & have a great kick) OR if it’s because I know these crunchy nibbles are actually HEALTHY, low in calories and I can actually enjoy a snack without the guilt?
Whatever my reasons… I’m throwing caution to the wind!

​If you have a farm shop product and fancy a review, get in touch!
​Email theteam@fabulousfarmshops.co.uk

Product Review – The English Cream Tea Company

Picture

​On my travels, I came across this…


Who’d have thought you could receive BY POST, a ‘typically British’ afternoon tea, packed neatly in its own cool gift tin? 
And can you imagine a chilled, luxury cream tea hamper box arriving by courier to your door?
​No, me neither, BUT guess what?
​….The English Cream Tea Company do just that & it’s not only cream tea’s they offer either, no sirreee.
There’s bake at home kits, jams, scones, specialist tea tins, even Prosecco hampers, you name it! 
Brilliant if you want to recapture that childhood picnic experience (in the drizzle obvs) or you’re really stuck on what to give Auntie Flo for her Birthday?
I’m treating the love of my life to an award winning, Valentines Brownie heart kit.  It’s definitely NOT for the ‘chocolate’ faint-hearted & sure to get her all in a flutter!
These handpicked hampers are freshly made & packed to order by gnomes. 
Honest.  Check their website.
You choose your date for dispatch & add a personalised message – make this a super duper thoughtful gift for the tea lover in your life!
Come onnn….what could be nicer than traditional, afternoon tea with friends?

Product Review – SMART INFUSED FÜD

The Smart Infused Füd team have created a fabulous new range of nutritious ready meals that are perfect for primary school age kids…BUT, with a difference!

With 1 in 8 children in the UK experiencing mental health issues, Fúd’s mission is to create delicious recipes that support healthy brain function, energy & development in children.
​Being developed by nutritional therapists, Fúd’s ready-meals optimise key nutrients, vitamins & minerals, helping children’s cognitive function, concentration, energy, immune & nervous system support. 

Their well thought out recipes go above & beyond the ‘5-a-day’ thinking, as each meal, not only contains 5 different vegetables, they are also enriched with minerals such as iron, omega 3 and Magnesium.
​
Busy mum’s (and lets face it, there’s a lot of them) who don’t want to compromise on taste or nutrition and simply don’t have TIME to cook from scratch, can finally feel guilt free with Smart Infused’s frozen meals.

​There’s six healthy and convenient ready meals in Fúd’s range, including Salmon, Mackerel & Haddock Fishcakes, Iron Rich Chilli Con Carne and vitamin A Sausage Casserole.

Fúd’s vegan, lentil Shepherds Pie certainly has a modern twist as not only does it contain vitamins A, C and B9, it’s 100% meat free (shhhh, they’ll never know) and the generous portion of the slow cooked Lamb Tagine is laced in a scrumptious, lip-smacking, sweet apricot sauce…
​
WOW! What a fabulous menu to offer the little ones.
I’ve been lucky enough to sample Fúd’s Fruity Chicken dish. 
This naturally brain boosting & mouth-watering dinner is not only generous in size ​(it actually serves 2, but hey…)
It’s sweet, succulent AND it’s packed with vitamins and nutrients. 
Good to know that all the ingredients in Fúd’s range are natural and ethically sourced 
Here’s something for the super-busy mummy in your life! 
Why not help her out with an incredibly thoughtful gift such as a Smart Infused, Gift Box?
Each box contains 8, 100% natural, frozen ready meals, one of each dish (you choose the remaining 2). Mum can serve up a brain boosting and guilt free dinner in 35 minutes!
Better still, how about signing up to Fúd’s brand new subscription service? You can order 12 brain boosting meals & have them delivered straight to your door every month!

​There’s FREE delivery on orders over £35 AND a further 10% off your first order when you sign up to Fúd’s newsletter!
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If you have a farm shop product & fancy a review, get in touch!

Reviewed Farm Shop – Tre, Pol & Pen

   We’ve been out and about in
                    Cornwall
We had the pleasure of paying Tre, Pol & Pen Farm Shop a visit! 
This fabulous farm shop is nestled in the Tamar Valley in Cornwall. 
​
The site’s name derives from the Cornish saying, “By Tre, Pol & Pen Shall Ye Know All Cornishmen” with ‘Tre’ meaning farm or homestead, ‘Pol’ meaning pond or spring and ‘Pen’ meaning hilltop or headland. ​​
​On arrival at this beautiful location, the large and modern building had us intrigued and although it was a wet, grey and miserable day, we sure had a bright and sunny reception.
We immediately headed to the spotless and incredibly spacious restaurant to refuel…

Tre, Pol & Pen believe that the ‘best meals come about when friends, food and family meet’ and it’s pretty clear that this magnificent space with its huge glass windows and wonderful views, is such a meeting venue.
From the extensive menu, we chose the full English breakfast with great expectations and we weren’t disappointed!
Far from it!
Great care had obviously been given to the presentation of this delicious platter of sausage, bacon, eggs, sourdough bread, tomatoes and fresh local mushrooms.
A truly beautiful looking AND tasting, locally sourced breakfast.

We just had to try the homemade milkshake made with local ‘Cornish Moo’ milk.
Thick, creamy and very, VERY tasty. Of course this milk, along with all the items we had just devoured are all available within the farm shop. 

​

​The bottled and local ‘Cornish Moo’ milk is available in the farm shop with a return bottle and refund, policy.

Being in Cornwall the farm shop is stocked up with a fantastic range of local & Cornish produce & products.
There’s plenty of l
ocal artisan gifts, ranging from children’s wooden toys, to hand crafted jewellery, all presented beautifully with a little background information regarding each maker and producer, giving a truly local feel.

There is a well stocked butchery counter with a vast selection of meats from their very own Ruby Red herd.
Of course we didn’t go away empty handed, we took on some sirloin steak and cooked it as recommended by Tre. Pol & Pen’s knowledgeable, in-house butcher.
We recommend!
​U
tterly delicious and extremely tender!

​You’ll find a zero-waste, refill section, containing nuts, grains, cereals and pulses as well as household cleaning products, encouraging customers to reuse and refill.
There’s a fabulous play area for the little ones and dogs are welcome in the outside seating area and surrounding grounds. 

Tre, Pol & Pen is an absolute gem of a farm shop and a definite ‘must visit’. 
The building, its layout and its interior itself, are stunning, the produce is local, fresh & plentiful, the gifts are interesting & imaginative, the staff are helpful & knowledgeable, the breakfast, well…that was just plain delicious and now we have to ask ourselves,
is Tre, Pol & Pen the most Instagramable farm shop?

OPENING TIMES:

Mon – Sat
Shop:         8.00am – 6.00pm
Cafe:          8.00am – 4.30pm

Sunday
Shop:         8.30am – 5.00pm
Cafe           8.30am – 4.30pm

​If you and your farm shop fancy a visit & review  from The Fabulous Farm Shop Team, get in touch!

Product Review – Greensand Ridge Distillery

​We all know that ‘GIN’ is ‘IN’ don’t we?
…I mean it’s the nations favourite tipple right?

But, what’s different about Greensand Ridge’s gin and what stands out, is their ability to create their gin from surplus produce or byproducts. 
Not ONLY that, but Greensand Ridge have actually built their own carbon-neutral micro-distillery with the mission to reduce food waste by fermenting and distilling quality produce that those big chain supermarkets just wont take.

Located in the heart of the Weald of Kent, Greensand Ridge Distillery create & craft unique & wonderful Gins, Fruit Brandies & Rums, all of which are distilled with 100% renewable energy… How fabulous is THAT?

Greensand Ridge Distillery’s aim is t​o build a truly sustainable business & produce the finest spirits possible that reflect the flavours of the Kentish woods, orchards, fields & hedgerows. 
With 
their quest for great flavours and by rediscovering, long forgotten ingredients, Greensand Ridge have created an unusual set of spirits.
London Dry Gin, Raspberry Ghost, Wealden Rum, Apple Brandy, Rye Cask Gin and PX Cask Gin
​Greensand Ridge’s London Dry Gin is distilled in small batches from a carefully selected combination of fifteen botanicals, 8 of which are found on their doorstep, in the heart of The Weald, such as poppy seeds and cobnuts, and each one plays an important role in creating this delicately balanced flavour.  

This premium and incredibly flavoursome gin is very well balanced, it goes down smoothly and leaves a pleasant sweetness on the tongue*
It’s wonderfully fresh, spicey, zingy AND moreish (probably a little TOO moreish as I’m trying to write)
​It’s really no surprise to me, that this bottle of loveliness has already bagged itself some pretty prestigious awards. 
Well deserved, I say!


*NB No arms were twisted when asked to review this product

Check this out!
On top of all that Greensand Ridge Distillery create and make, they also offer a fabulous gin experience.
This has to be the PERFECT gift for any gin lover? 
Take a tour of their fantastic distillery, learn about the art of distilling and the different gin botanicals and THEN (this is the best bit) you’ll distill your own full bottle of gin on an individual copper pot still, selecting from their amazing range of over 40 botanicals, whilst enjoying a complimentary G&T!
When the day is done and if you’re still standing, you will take home your very own handmade bottle of gin…brilliant…SIGN ME UP!

If you have a farm shop product & fancy a review, get in touch with THETEAM!

​

Featured Farm Shop – Ben’s Farm Shop

Conveniently located just outside the beautiful village of Yealmpton, situated between the thriving Ocean City of Plymouth and the hidden South Hams gem Mothercombe beach, Ben’s Farm Shop is the ideal destination for anyone wanting to buy good, simple food from good, sustainable farming. 
​Ben’s are renowned for their traditional butcher’s counter that provides a wealth of free range or organic meat from trusted local farmers and offer an excellent range of fresh organic meat as well as their famous sausages and dry cured bacon. 
The shelves are packed full with seasonal fresh fruit, veg and produce that is sourced directly from small, local producers and growers.
​
​With ample free parking, there’s plenty of time to browse the impressive range of store cupboard essentials, wines and beers, chilled and frozen products and much more. 
​

​Relax in the bright, airy café or pretty walled garden and enjoy a coffee, cake or light meal from Ben’s specials board or visit our deli counter for a homemade pasty, cake or pie, all fresh from Ben’s farm kitchen.
Ben’s farm kitchen cater for vegetarians and vegans and their fabulous breakfast makes a perfect post-surf feast. 

Ben’s Farm Shops are located at Staverton, Totnes, Yealmpton & Exeter and also have Ben’s Wine & Tapas in Totnes High Street.

YEALMPTON FARM SHOP OPENING HOURS:
Mon – Sat   9.00am – 6.00pm
Sun –        10.00am – 5.00pm
rs

To locate Ben’s Farm Shop & all other Devonshire farm shops, click HERE.
If you would like see your farm shop featured, please email
theteam@fabulousfarmshops.co.uk
​
​

Featured Farm Shop – Lye Cross Farm Shop

Located in Somerset, Lye Cross Farm have over 50 years of cheese making experience  and continue to use old-fashioned cheese-making skills to make their fantastic and award-winning cheeses. 
Lye Cross Farm are the UK’s only cheese-maker of 100% certified grass-fed Cheddar!
Lye Cross Farm offers a fantastic range of handmade cheeses, both conventional and organic and the entire production & packaging process takes place here, ensuring maximum quality control as well as a minimum carbon footprint.
The Farm Shop is filled with fresh, locally sourced produce and boasts a fantastic butchery. The beef here is reared on the family farm and is sold alongside locally sourced lamb, pork and poultry…
You’ll find great range of local ciders, beers and wines, not forgetting the deli & fresh bread counter. 
​Fresh fish is available every Thursday. 
​
How about a wedding day, cheese tower?
​
For you cheese lovers, Lye Cross Farm will make your special day, just a
little more special with a bespoke cheese tower!
Choose your budget & select your cheeses from Lye Cross’s vast range. 

​You can earn points every time you buy at Lye Cross Farm Shop. 
Pick up a Loyalty Card in the Farm Shop and spend your collected points in store
​You can save money whilst 
enjoying exclusive offers!

O​PENING HOURS:

Monday – Friday 8.00am – 6.00pm
Saturday –            8.00am – 5.00pm
Sunday –             10.00am – 4.00pm

To locate Lye Cross Farm Shop and all other Somerset farm shops, click HERE

If you fancy a farm shop feature, get in touch with The Team!

Featured Farm Shop – Hunscote Farm Shop

​Hunscote Farm Shop, established in 1980, is a family run business in Warwickshire supplying quality home grown & affordable local produce.
Understanding that traceability is important to their customers they endeavour to supply local Warwickshire produce whenever available.
​Hunscote is well known for the quality of their home grown potatoes and boasts a loyal and regular customer base. An excellent choice of fresh fruit & vegetables are always available as Hunscote themselves cultivate vegetables including leeks, beetroot, carrots, marrows and rhubarb, to name but a few!
​Within the farm shop you’ll find honey, homemade cakes, pies, cheeses, jams, chutneys, ice cream, biscuits, gluten free products, frozen veg, pastries, tea, coffee, juices, dairy produce, clotted cream…
​
​​Hunscote’s own, home-reared lamb is available all year round including locally sourced bacon, pork & sausages.
​The plant nursery is ever expanding and each year the choice of quality plants increases.
As these are raised in-house from young seedlings, customers are not expected to pay garden centre prices!
​

To locate Hunscote Farm Shop & all other Warwickshire farm shops, click HERE

Opening Times:
Monday-Thursday 8am – 5.30pm
Friday 8am – 6pm.
Saturday 8am-5.30pm
Sunday CLOSED

If you fancy a farm shop feature, get in touch with
​theteam@fabulousfarmshops.co.uk

Product Review – Old Curiosity Distillery

Once upon a time, set in an enchanting botanical nursery at the foot of the Pentland Hills, just outside Edinburgh, the Old Curiosity Distillery was founded. 
Creators of unique gins that are 100% natural, Old Curiosity have the passion AND knowledge to grow, hand-pick, harvest and infuse over 600 different kinds of herbs and flowers & are forever experimenting and creating new & exciting magical colour-changing gins.
Every bottle is naturally distilled and free from chemicals, sugars & fruit extracts.
Sounds like a fairy tale?
​I reckon it is…
Just how aesthetically pleasing is this?
I feel somewhat ‘Alice in Wonderland’ when I pop the stopper. This beautiful bottle will never be hidden at the back of my dusty old drinks cabinet as, let’s be honest here, it’s a work of art!

The aromatic Lavender and Echinacea gin not only boasts the restorative qualities of the lavender but the medicinal petals of the echinacea flower too, all 100% natural of course.
Serve this chilled, add a splash of tonic whilst watching the miracle of nature unfold with its colour-changing reaction.
If ever a gin could heal the soul, this would be IT…! 
Old Curiosity’s Apothecary Rose Gin is a superbly elegant, fresh n’ floral gin.
The unique and delicate rose flavour makes this an incredibly soft tasting tipple.  
The Rose, of course is freshly picked from the Secret Herb Garden. 
You could really jazz up your cocktail evening with this little beauty as it’s pretty perfect to add to cocktails with its magical colour-changing qualities.
That said, this is neat…NEAT!
How’s this for a special & unique ‘gin lover’ gift? 
​Three magically & deliciously natural gins within this gorgeous miniature gift set.
This wonderful, handcrafted gift set contains colour-changing, Apothecary Rose, Lavender & Echinacea and Chamomile & Cornflower. 

I mean, REALLY, who in their right mind, would be disappointed to receive THIS on their birthday?
​​

By subscribing to Old Curiosity’s GIN CLUB,  us gin lovers are in for a treat! 
We can expect a monthly delivery of a brand new and exclusive gin such as ‘Hot Pink Tulip’ & White Heather & Rose (for example), along with garnishes, mixers and exclusive offers and events.
​Sign me UP!

If THAT’S not enough, then how about spending an hour touring The Old Curiosity Distillery where you can wander around the beautiful secret gin garden and see behind the scenes with the distillery tour?  

If you have a farm shop product & fancy a review, get in touch:
theteam@fabulousfarmshops.co.uk

Featured Farm Shop – Ben & Ella’s Farm Shop

​Ben & Ella’s Farm Shop is a brand new and exciting farm shop situated on the Essex/Suffolk border, run and owned by a young and incredibly passionate couple.
Specialising in local British produce, Ben & Ella’s cheese counter boasts an enviable array of over 40 different varieties of British cheeses.
This environmentally conscious business, insists that all their packaging is biodegradable and  have a strict 100% no palm oil policy within the shop
Ben & Ella work closely with other independent businesses that share those same values.
Being a ‘guilt free’ and affordable one stop shopping experience, Ben & Ella’s sell fresh fruit & vegetables, freshly baked artisan sourdoughs, breads and pastries all created in their in-house bakery.
In fact, ALL their baked goods are handmade by Ben himself whilst Ella manages the shop – what a team!
They’re a dog friendly farm shop too-and even have their very own ‘Dachshund Deli Dog’ ‘Crunchie’
Ben & Ella’s now stock a great range of outdoor and potted plants and are soon to open their own gift shop opposite the farm shop. 
They also are onsite at Baythorne Hall, along with an independent butchers, cafe, antiques store and wine shop.

Opening Hours:
Monday – CLOSED
Tues–Sat  9am-5pm
Sunday – 10am-4pm

Click HERE to locate Ben & Ella’s Farm Shop and all other Essex farm shops.

If you would like to see your farm shop featured, please email:
​theteam@fabulousfarmshops.co.uk

Product Review – The Taunton Cider Co.

Incredibly, The Taunton Cider Co. was established way back in 1911 and thankfully,  relaunched in 2016 by a small group of cider enthusiasts (well done you people!) 
Today, once again, The Taunton Cider Co. produce a range of award-winning ciders, using traditional methods and crafted using only the finest & locally sourced apple varieties.
I’ve had a tough weekend sampling Taunton’s Original Dry Cider.
I can sum this
 dry cider up in one word: APPLES!
This is a very easy drinking cider, (too easy some may say) 
It’s refreshing & crisp but nothing overpowers the apples used. There’s an incredibly moresish twang to it which brings the feel of the countryside to me, without me even being there… 
This is a fantabulous tasting craft cider and it’s definitely not just a refreshing summer or festival tipple, this is a lip-smacking cider that’s appropriate to drink year-round.
Taunton Cider Co. combines timeless traditional methods with the contemporary craft to create outstandingly tasty ciders & as well as their Original Dry, The Taunton Cider Co. also produce Taunton Original Medium Cider AND Taunton Original Vintage Cider.
​​Both of which are bold & fruity with outstanding taste.
​This is 
​real craft cider at it’s best… 
If you know a cider drinker who’d like to drink it all of the day…then here’s the perfect gift!
​Taunton’s Original Cider Gift Pack.  
Let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want to receive THIS?
You can buy online HERE

If you have a farm shop product & fancy a review, get in touch:
theteam@fabulousfarmshops.co.uk

Featured Farm Shop – Trevilley Farm Shop

​Trevilley Farm Shop pride themselves on good quality Cornish foods. This traditional family-run farm, produces and sells quality Cornish meat & artisan produce and are uncompromising when it comes to ONLY selling Cornish produce. All products are locally grown or produced and supplied from Newquay and the surrounding region and virtually all are organic and traditional.
Trevilley themselves, produce a wide range of vegetables including cauliflower, leeks, cabbage and swede & have even been awarded ‘Cornwall Life’ ‘Food Producer of the Year’.
Alongside the abundance of fresh vegetables, you will find a good range of meats, preserves, pastries, eggs, breads, poultry, hampers and an incredible selection of produce from over 100 local suppliers!
Not only do Trevilley supply produce to many local restaurants, they also offer a variety of other services too, including delivery of hampers and produce boxes to local self-catering cottages and even offer a field to hire (with wonderful views) for marquee events such as weddings!

Trevilley have recently launched a mail order service, so there’s no need to miss out on farm fresh produce!
You can purchase ALL your farm shop goodies online, with delivery throughout the U.K.

Opening Hours:
Monday – Saturday 9.30 to 5.30pm
Closed Sundays

You can find all farm shops located in Cornwall HERE

Fancy a farm shop feature?  Get in touch with The Team!

Product Review – The Ilex Wood

If, like me you’re keen to support cruelty free, palm oil free AND 100% natural beauty & herbal products, then you’re reading the right review!
I’ve rather pampered myself this week with The Ilex Wood range of natural beauty products (I know, I know, tough job)
The Ilex Wood are based in Northamptonshire and create the most wonderful, herbal remedies and luxurious skin care products, including face creams, lip balms, salves and serums that smell oh-so-natural!
Top of my hit list was the ‘Boo Boo Balm‘
Apart from its fabulous name and the cool looking tin, The Boo Boo Balm is an all natural and soothing balm for minor cuts, sores and bruises. This little tin of healing,  herbal salve will help sooth n’ heal a wide range of common ailments.
Pop one in your handbag or in the car, as this’ll make a very handy companion, especially if 
you have little one’s, as this magical stuff will ensure there’ll be no more boo boos!

Dandelion is a natural, mild analgesic, (who knew?) so if you suffer with joint pain, sore muscles, tired limbs or even very dry and chapped skin, this luxurious Dandelion & Rosemary Salve is a herbal, vegan and a 100% natural, pain reliever, ideal for everyday aches and pain.
​I’m liking this a lot…
sure is nice to know that nothing and no one has suffered for my pain relief!

​The Rose & Frankincense Facial Serum is created using a blend of oils, infused with rose and lavender, sounds delicious doesn’t it?
Well, it is!
This natural, but luxurious & gentle serum, has left my skin glowing!
Yep, my skin is super-soft AND hydrated, so if you’re needing to perk up that tired & dull face (AND feel like a million dollars) then this natural and anti-ageing serum certainly does what it says on the tin…so to speak.
The Ilex Wood range is beauty without cruelty at its finest, with simplicity being the key.
If you’re looking for a special and thoughtful gift, then you might want to check out Ilex’s beautifully wrapped, vegan gift box with free U.K delivery.  
You’ll find
 nothing unnatural, nothing complicated & nothing toxic in ANY of Ilex’s range, which is oh-so important for today’s conscientious buyers.
Yep, The Ilex Wood proves that ​beauty really doesn’t have to cost the Earth…

If you have a farm shop product & fancy a review, get in touch:
theteam@fabulousfarmshops.co.uk

Featured Farm Shop – Oakchurch Farm Shop & Garden Centre.

​Located in the beautiful Herefordshire countryside, the family run Oakchurch Farm Shop offers EVERYTHING from fresh and local produce to a butchers, clothing, gifts, a garden centre and even a restaurant!
The farm shop is stacked with an abundance of locally grown, quality fruit & veg and during the summer months all the soft fruits available, including Oakchurch’s famous Strawberries, are grown and picked daily on the Oakchurch farm. You’ll also find a seasonal and very popular, organic pic ‘n mix veg section!
Be sure to visit Berries Restaurant & Coffee Shop located within Oakchurch farm shop.
This fully licensed restaurant, serves up freshly prepared and locally sourced foods, from breakfast to lunch along with sandwiches, a specials menu, drinks, snacks and delicious Herefordshire Cream Teas.
You can enjoy a traditional carvery every Sunday and during the summer months, you can make good use of the large patio area. The kids can be entertained in the play area with the addition of a herd of Dwarf Goats to keep them interested!
You’ll find all that you need for your gardening requirements in Oakchurch’s garden centre, be it garden tools, pet foods, wild bird feed and accessories. The outdoor area hosts an array of bedding plants and trees.
Oakchurch is a great family day out, with ample and free parking!

​To locate Oakchurch Farm Shop & Garden Centre and all other Herefordshire farm shops, click HERE

Opening Times:
Mon-Sat 9.00am – 5.30pm
Sun         10.30am – 4.30pm

Product Review – Chapman’s Seafoods

​The Chapman family are incredibly proud to be part of the rich fishing heritage that Grimsby is famous for and quite rightly too!
With their strong values & superb quality, Chapman’s offer a truly scrumptious & utterly unique range of handcrafted fish & seafood dishes.
​If you like a little fishy on your dishy, read on!
My hardest job this week was to actually CHOOSE one of Chapman’s dishes to review as they all look so darn good!
Using only the very best quality fish and ingredients, Chapman’s range varies from luxury fish pies, smoked haddock & breaded fish to prawns, scallops and fillets.
I reluctantly selected the Haddock Bake. I say ‘reluctantly’ as I also had my eye on the ginormous fish fingers… FOMO.

Firstly, Chapman’s sure don’t cut corners on size, what a great sized portion this is! 
This AWARD WINNING Haddock Bake is full of exciting flavours and for a moment, I feel I’m eating freshly caught fish. The crumbly crushed croutons, broccoli, leek and melted cheese are incredibly mouthwatering. This dish is different, it’s exciting & I reckon these Haddock Bakes wouldn’t be out of place in a Michelin star restaurant.

And why should I miss out on Chapman’s fish fingers?? 
OK, I admit it…I usually opt for the high street BIG name fish finger and never really thought they’d be THAT much difference. 
Oh how wrong I was!
​Firstly and yes, childishly, the size amused me. I reckon these jumbo deluxe, fish fingers are equatable to 4 ‘regular’ fish fingers.
Another huge and very obvious difference is that Chapman’s fish fingers are PROPER, as in proper chunks of cod, chunks that you can get your teeth into.
Fish finger sarnies will never be the same again as these blow any high street bought fish fingers out the water (so to speak)
If you’re rather partial to a fish cake then you should know that Chapman’s AWARD WINNING (yep, more awards) gourmet Fish Cakes are handmade using the best fish and carefully selected ingredients.
The innovative flavour combinations such as ‘Thai Style Salmon‘, ‘Haddock & Leek’ and ‘Smoked Salmon & Horseradish’ are just a few of the truly scrumptious fish cakes Chapman’s create.
​I cannot write a review without mentioning Chapman’s Classic Fish & Parsley Fish Cakes.
This is THE original Fish Cake…the Fish Cake that started it all off…YEP, the mother of all fish cakes. These Cod & Potato fish cakes are handcrafted and yes, you got it AWARD WINNING!
These guys must be quite literally, tripping over their awards!
Once you’ve tried and tasted Chapman’s Fish Bakes or Coated Fish products, you will want to try them all.
I do.
And will.

If you have a farm shop product & fancy a review, get in touch:
theteam@fabulousfarmshops.co.uk

Product Review – Zepice

​Been feeling a tad hot under the collar this week after a little box arrived on my doorstep!
Might have been a little box but BOY, it sure was bursting with the most incredible aromas!
Zepice produce handmade artisan Mauritian spice blends, using traditional family recipes that have been passed down the generations and after nigh on a week of getting creative with some of these spices, I thank the lord that these authentic blends have made it through the ages…
Using only freshly ground ingredients, Zepice blends of spices & their authentic curry powders are available in varying strengths depending on your pallet.
I sampled the versatile, Oak Smoked Medium Curry blend and the immensely rich aroma had my mouth watering before I had even laid the table! 
​W
hat more can I say, other than delectably delicious.
Good to know that each blend is carefully created & prepared to compliment various proteins and you’ll find NO artificial colourings, NO thickening agents and NO artificial flavourings in Zepice’s range.
Yep, it’s ALL natural and is even suitable for vegans AND vegetarians! 
The aromatic and authentic, oak smoked curry blend is rich, deep and intense with an exotic burst of flavour. The carefully selected combination of spices ensures that this really DOES taste as good as it smells!

Zepice’s oak smoked sea salt is perfect to season your dish or simply to use as a rub to enhance your adventurous Asian creation!

The carefully balanced ratio of green, black, white, pink & green peppercorns in Zepice’s mixed peppercorn jar, will ensure your dish achieves its full flavour.

You’ll enjoy a taste from another era with Zepice’s Maple & Cherry Demerara sugar.
Tantalise your taste buds and add this smoked & aromatic sugar in your morning coffee. 
​OR you could try this versatile sugar on your waffles, cereal, in your baking or simply as a topping?

​​It’s pretty clear that Zepice are passionate about their spices and curry powders (I am too now)
There’s no excuse NOT to spice up your life with Zepice.
Check out their recipe page for all the inspiration you may need and ENOUGH of those dull dinners!

​

If you have a farm shop product & fancy a review, get in touch:
theteam@fabulousfarmshops.co.uk

Product review – Keepr’s Infused Spirits

​​This week, I came across this fabulous company and I reckon this is going to beee an easy review!
Let’s put it this way…no one had to physically twist my arm to sample Keepr’s Gin.

Having launched in 2013 in the heart of the Cotswolds, The British Honey Company actively supports beekeepers & the British honey bee, ensuring their future in our environment and with each one of their hives working endlessly to pollinate British meadows & hedgerows, you can guarantee scrumptious and, more importantly, traceable, 100% raw honey.
​Now, with not only the most incredible range of honeys and jams under their belt, The British Honey Company presents ‘Keepr’s, an imaginative & exciting range of handcrafted honey and honey infused spirits!
Taking inspiration  from the British countryside, your taste buds will certainly come to life with Keepr’s Rum. Gin’s & Vodka’s.
I sampled (quite a decent amount of) Keepr’s fragrant & rather unique ​Strawberry & Lavender Gin. 
If you’re a gin lover, like myself, I’m sure you’ll find this elegant, fresh n’ fruity flavour spectacularly lip-smacking, particularly on the rocks (try saying THAT after 3 samples!)
Keepr’s ​adventurous range includes Honey Gin, Strawberry & Lavender Gin, English Raspberry & Honey Gin, British Honey & Salted Caramel Vodka, Elderflower Vodka, Apple & Honey Vodka, Cotswold Honey Spiced Rum, Christmas Spiced Cotswold Honey & English Vodka and After Dinner Mint & English Vodka.
Sounds tempting right?
Even better,  you can buy direct HERE.
You could even treat a special someone with a Keepr’s Gin & Jam Gift Set.

As well as being absolutely delicious, by drinking it, I’m supporting our vital and incredibly busy bees and I really love that each bottle is traceable to its hive. ​​
Yep…it’s definitely a win, win, win, win from me!

If you have a farm shop product and fancy a review, get in touch with
theteam@fabulousfarmshops.co.uk​

Product Review – Sin Gluten Free Artisan Bakers

If you’re looking for premium, quality, gluten free products, then you’ve come to the right place!
I still find it surprising AND frustrating with the lack of choice when it comes to great tasting, gluten-free treats.
​That is, until I discovered SIN!
Since starting back in 2011, SIN have bagged themselves numerous ‘taste’ awards for their great tasting cakes ‘n bakes & are continuously developing and adding to their range, all of which are created in their dedicated gluten-free commercial kitchen!
Thanks to SIN, you can forget those dry and bland tasting gluten-free treats from the past. These artisan bakers have created some terrifically tasty cakes, cookies & tray-bakes with moist treats such as their ​Shameless Oaty all Butter Flapjack, their Wickedly Fruity, Oat & Nut Granola Bar.
​SIN’s Chocolate Tiffin Bar tastes delicious as does the Truly Lovely Chocolatey, Biscuit and Marshmallow Rocky Road (my favourite!)
For ‘on the go’ munch, SIN offer freshly baked, sealed & wrapped, individual servings too! Perfect for lunch boxes or for a quick sweet-fix.
These ‘Little Black Box‘ cakes can even be delivered to your door so you can feast your taste buds on these fancies anytime.
Within this range you can choose from Chocolate Orange Brownie, Pecan Brownie, Lemon & Cranberry Cake & Orange Polenta Cake. 

SIN certainly are helping make people happy with cake and you don’t have to be gluten intolerant to enjoy these great tasting bakes, so how about signing up for a freshly baked, gluten-free cake subscription?
Yep, SIN offer that service too! 

​

If you have a farm shop product & fancy a review, get in touch!
theteam@fabulousfarmshops.co.uk