Cafe/shop combo! Firstly, the shop. I'm never more interested in jam and dishcloths then when I'm in a National Trust gift shop. Don't know why but they fascinate me. An array of flavours and styles. God! I love jam. I don't often eat the stuff but buying it from quaint shops fills me with joy. It's not all jam (and dishcloths) though, a wholesome range of homely and utterly nice bits-and-bobs from greetings cards and jars of sweets to hand creams and doorstops shaped like hedgehogs. A nice place to peruse and pick up a few bits (and bobs!)
Secondly, the cafe. It's a bit naff, really, which is a shame as it looks pleasant enough but once inside it feels quite soulless. Tables and chairs laid out a little haphazardly and occupied my a few lonely looking elderly types. The staff are nice and friendly but the choice for snacks or lunches are quite limited. Fine for a sit down and a cup of tea/coffee/hot chocolate and a pot of fruit or something similar but hardly holding an appeal that would make one want to return.
The shop and cafe are connected by a short, open corridor which also features a unisex toilet.
TTFN,
Ian read more