Daylesford Organic Farm Shop

Farm shops are on the increase, that's for sure. A few of them leave something to be desired, but in general the standards are good and a prime example exists at Chatsworth House. Another contender to enter the scene is the Daylesford Organic Farm Shop, run by the Bamford family and based on their family estate and farm in Gloucestershire. This is now well on the way to becoming one of the Cotswold hot spots, and a favoured gathering place for the well-heeled. Not only is the produce on sale of the very best; the café provides a service of which many a professional restaurateur would be proud, a statement supported by their winning of the Restaurant of the Year in the 2004 Organic Food Awards. Meat, cheese, fish and wine are also available for purchase on-line

From a daily changing menu expect to find white onion and thyme soup with Daylesford bread, a selection of charcuterie with red onion, red pepper, capers and grilled sourdough or soft boiled egg set in a Tarragon jelly. The grilled burger is best quality and is served with gherkins, tomato, red onion and Daylesford Cheddar, or try the risotto of broad beans with parsley and parmesan.

It is refreshing to go somewhere to eat and know with conviction that the ingredients will be nothing but the best, and standards throughout will be of the kind that you would be proud to see in your own home. Lest that reads like an advertisement let me advise you to go to Daylesford and see for yourself. Furthermore, dog-owners of the world rejoice, there is a pooch-park, with shade, water and organic dog biscuits. In view of campaigns being waged elsewhere this meets with our complete approval.