Why we love river cottage!

One of the many great reasons to visit The Old Bakehouse is its convenient location, situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and close to the culinary delights of River Cottage.

We’re just a ten-minute drive from its HQ, a 100-acre organic farming venture created by the television chef Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall.

River Cottage has featured in a long running Channel 4 television series, but it’s also become a draw for visitors to East Devon for its many different offerings, including feasts in the 18th century threshing hall and courses in cookery, gardening and craft, ranging from bee-keeping to cheese-making. There’s even the opportunity for a seasonal feast with Hugh himself on occasional dates in the calendar.

The prices range, depending on activity – beekeeping starts from £245 and a seasonal feast with Hugh from £195. But for those on a budget, there’s also the option of lunch at the River Cottage Kitchen and Store at the entrance to the farm estate.

Recently opened, it serves breakfast from 9am to 11.30am and lunch from noon to 3pm. The store sells organic food and drink, and is open from 9am to 5pm. The website advises booking but we visited on the off-chance of a table and were in luck! We enjoyed a fantastic two-course lunch for the special offer of just £15 per person, but individual courses ranged from £7.50 to £16*.

We relaxed in stylish surroundings and watched our food being prepared in the open kitchen. Before long, we were tucking into a mouthwatering lamb tagine, followed by a delicious dessert of carrot cake. Perfect for a winter’s day, but the kitchen also includes outdoor seating at a balcony overlooking the stunning valley and River Cottage HQ. It makes for a beautiful view on warmer days.

The Old Bakehouse is perfectly placed to stop over for a visit to River Cottage. We recently hosted guests who enjoyed a feast at the cottage and a peaceful night’s sleep in one of our four en-suite rooms.

Now is the time to plan your spring and summer break, especially as River Cottage reservations fill up fast. For best prices to stay at The Old Bakehouse, book at our website.

*Prices correct at time of publication