How to Collect Old Recipe Books

There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about old recipe books. 

From wartime ration guides to quirky 1970s jelly mould marvels, vintage cookbooks are time capsules of how we used to live, eat and entertain. 

If you’ve ever been charmed by browned pages, handwritten notes in the margins, or curious recipes using ingredients long forgotten, then collecting old recipe books might just become your next passion.

Here’s how to get started.

Why Collect Old Recipe Books?

Old cookbooks do more than provide recipes—they tell stories.

They reveal social history, culinary trends, and even regional ingredients that might no longer be in common use. You’ll learn how families made do during rationing, what counted as exotic in the 1950s, and what the average Sunday dinner looked like a century ago.

Where to Find Them

1. Charity Shops & Car Boot Sales

The British high street charity shop is a treasure trove for vintage books. Cookbooks are often donated in bundles, and older titles can go unnoticed on crowded shelves. Likewise, early mornings at car boot sales often uncover quirky or rare finds for pennies.

2. Online Marketplaces

eBay, AbeBooks, and Etsy are filled with vintage and antique cookbooks. Use search filters for decade, publisher, or region, and don’t be afraid to ask sellers for more info or internal page pics.

3. Library Sales & House Clearances

Public libraries often rotate stock, including donated or older cookery books. Estate sales and house clearances can yield full collections from a single person’s lifetime.

4. Specialist Bookshops & Fairs

Second-hand and antiquarian bookshops sometimes specialise in food and domestic history. Visit a rare book fair for curated selections and expert knowledge, though prices can be higher.

What to Look For

🔹 Age & Condition

Books pre-1950 are usually considered vintage. While condition is a factor, slight wear or notes often add to the charm—especially handwritten family additions.

🔹 Unique Themes or Eras

Look for niche topics: jelly and aspic from the 50s, microwave cookery from the 80s, or vegetarianism from the 70s. Each offers a cultural snapshot.

🔹 Local & Regional Titles

Cookbooks produced by churches, schools or local societies often contain regional gems you won’t find in mainstream publications.

🔹 First Editions or Signed Copies

These are collector gold, especially if the author was well known or the book became a culinary classic.

Caring for Your Collection

Store books upright in a dry, cool room.

Keep away from damp, sunlight, and food spills.

Use archival-quality sleeves for very old or delicate books.

If you want to try a recipe, photocopy the page instead of using the original.

Bonus Tip: Start a Digital Archive

Scan or photograph your favourite recipes and create your own searchable digital archive. You can even transcribe and share long-lost gems on a blog or social media to bring them back to life.

Final Thoughts

Collecting old recipe books is a beautiful blend of history, nostalgia, and culinary adventure. Each volume you find could be a glimpse into another era’s kitchen, waiting for you to rediscover its secrets and stories. Whether you're a casual browser or a serious collector, there’s a whole world of food history out there—one dog-eared page at a time.

Explore More for Less: Learn Your Local Bus Routes for Lunches, Picnics and Mini Adventures

Sometimes the best adventures start at the bus stop down the road. 

With a little curiosity and planning, your local bus routes can unlock a treasure trove of lunchtime escapes and countryside picnics—without breaking the bank on fuel or parking fees. 

Whether you’re craving a pint and pie in a cosy county pub, or fancy a peaceful afternoon in a scenic city park, your local public transport might just be your ticket to a brilliant day out.

Why Learn Your Local Bus Routes?

Public transport isn't just for commuters or school runs. With services running to towns, villages, nature reserves, and parkland, buses offer a relaxed and eco-friendly way to explore your area. You can watch the world roll by from the window, skip the hassle of traffic and car parks, and enjoy a pint without worrying about driving home.

Plus, many local councils and bus operators offer day saver tickets, group travel deals, or even capped fares—perfect for spur-of-the-moment plans.

County Pub Lunches with a View

Buses can take you off the beaten track to places you'd never consider driving to just for lunch. Check out:

Historic coaching inns nestled in market towns

Canal-side pubs with sunny beer gardens

Village greens with a pub serving up local ales and hearty roast dinners

Do a bit of online sleuthing, or simply follow the bus route map and pick a village or town you’ve never visited. Call ahead to the pub if you're unsure about service times or booking policies—especially on Sundays. And check the bus timetables, too.

Picnic Spots and Rural Escapes

There’s something beautifully British about hopping on a bus with a picnic in your rucksack and heading for a quiet spot under a tree or by a babbling brook. Ideal destinations might include:

Country parks just outside town

Woodland trails with picnic tables

Meadows and nature reserves with well-signed footpaths

Bus stops are often within walking distance of these spots, and some local authorities even provide downloadable walking guides linked to bus routes.

Urban Green Spaces and City Surprises

Not all great picnics or lunches happen out in the sticks. City buses can whisk you to:

Botanic gardens and peaceful arboretums

Hidden pocket parks you’ve never noticed

Food markets with plenty of benches for a laid-back lunch

Grab your sandwich and a cold drink from a nearby deli or bakery and enjoy watching the world go by.

Tips to Get Started

Get the map – Most bus companies offer route maps and timetables online. Apps like Traveline or your local council’s transport portal are goldmines.

Check weekend services – Some rural routes only run Monday–Saturday or have reduced hours on Sundays.

Layer up and be prepared – The UK weather is famously unpredictable. Pack a brolly and a jumper.

Bring a mate or go solo – These trips are ideal for solo explorers, romantic dates or spontaneous catch-ups with friends.

Stay flexible – Part of the charm is seeing where you end up. You can always hop off and explore if somewhere looks interesting.

Final Thoughts

Reclaim the joy of slow travel and rediscover the gems on your doorstep. By simply learning your local bus routes, you’ll uncover new places to dine, unwind and enjoy the world beyond your usual haunts. So next time the sun shines—or even when it drizzles—check the bus times, pack a snack or plan a pub, and make a mini adventure of your lunch hour or lazy weekend.

Last-Minute Lifesavers: How to Buy an Emergency Father’s Day Gift

So, Father's Day has crept up on you—or worse, the gift you ordered hasn’t arrived. Whether you completely forgot, got caught up in a busy week, or a trusted vendor let you down at the last minute, don’t panic. 

There are still plenty of thoughtful, fun, and meaningful gifts you can sort out today without it looking rushed.

Here’s your That's Food and Drink guide to buying an emergency Father’s Day present that Dad will love—and won’t look like you threw it together in five minutes (even if you did).

1. Go Digital: Gift Vouchers to the Rescue

When time is tight, gift vouchers are your best friend. These days, they’re far from boring—especially if you tailor them to his interests.

Foodie Dads: Vouchers for Deliveroo, Just Eat, or his favourite takeaway spot mean he can skip cooking and enjoy a night off.

Tech & Gadgets: Amazon, Currys or Apple Store vouchers let him pick out that gadget he’s been eyeing up.

Hobby-Specific: Garden centres, golf shops, fishing gear outlets—many have e-gift cards you can print at home or email directly.

Tip: Add a personal touch by writing, “I didn’t want to guess, so you get to treat yourself—guilt-free!”

2. Meal Experiences for Future Feasting

Meal vouchers and dining experiences make fantastic last-minute gifts and feel much more personal than they are.

Local Pubs & Restaurants: Many now offer e-gift vouchers or pre-paid meals online. Choose somewhere with character—a cosy inn, a steakhouse, or a countryside gastropub.

Afternoon Tea or Sunday Roast: Give him the gift of a leisurely afternoon at a favourite spot (and maybe tag along yourself!).

Cook-at-Home Kits: Some meal kit companies (like Pasta Evangelists, Dishpatch, or Gousto) let you send future deliveries with vouchers—perfect for a foodie dad who likes to get stuck in in the kitchen.

3. Printable Gifts With a Personal Touch

If you have a printer handy, whip up a “Dad IOU” or homemade gift voucher. Ideas include:

One cooked breakfast in bed

An afternoon pint (my treat)

A day out of your choice—no complaining allowed

Present it in an envelope with a snack, drink, or his favourite chocolate bar for extra thoughtfulness.

4. Subscription Services You Can Activate Today

There are loads of digital subscriptions that you can purchase instantly, including:

Magazines & Newspapers: The Times, Top Gear, Men’s Health, BBC History or food magazines

Streaming Services: Netflix, NOW TV, Spotify Premium, or Audible.

Monthly Boxes: Beer subscription? Coffee delivery? Socks with swagger? Choose one, send the first month digitally, and let the surprise arrive later.

5. Local Shops & Supermarkets – Think Fast, Think Smart

If you need something physical today, try:

Supermarket gift sections: Many carry shaving kits, socks, quirky mugs, local ales, or pre-packed Father’s Day gift boxes.

Farm shops or delis: Pick up some quality cheese, chutneys, or beers to make a quick but classy hamper.

Garden centres: A new plant, seeds, or tools are perfect for the green-fingered dad.

6. Send a Heartfelt Message

If all else fails, take five minutes to write a proper message in a card or email. Let him know what he means to you and why he’s appreciated. A kind, genuine message is often more memorable than anything bought in a shop.

Don’t Forget Next Year…

Put a calendar reminder in your phone now for two weeks before Father’s Day 2026. Future you will be grateful.

In Summary:

✔ Digital gift cards

✔ Meal or pub vouchers

✔ Printable homemade IOUs

✔ Instant subscriptions

✔ Local shop gems

✔ Thoughtful words

Dressing the Part: Why Your Restaurant or Pub Needs Staff in Uniform

In hospitality, first impressions matter. Before a customer tastes the food or hears a word of welcome, they’re already forming an opinion—based on what they see. 

We are writing this blogpost based on a recent experience when it wasn't possible to distinguish staff from customers in a lounge bar.

That’s why having your restaurant or pub staff dressed in uniform isn’t just about appearance; it’s about trust, professionalism, and reinforcing your brand identity.

Here’s why having your team in uniform is more than just a nice touch—it’s a smart business move.

1. Professionalism Builds Confidence

Uniformed staff immediately look more professional. Customers are more likely to feel confident that their food and drink are being handled by trained, capable individuals. Whether it’s a crisp white chef’s jacket or a polished front-of-house apron, uniforms show your team take their roles seriously.

In a busy restaurant or pub, looking the part builds trust before a single plate leaves the kitchen.

2. Brand Identity in Action

Your staff are part of your brand—walking, talking ambassadors for your business. Uniforms are an easy way to reflect your venue’s identity and style:

A modern bistro might go for smart-casual polo shirts with the logo embroidered.

A traditional village pub could opt for checked shirts and waistcoats.

A fine dining establishment may choose full black-and-white formal wear.

Consistent uniforms help create a cohesive and memorable image, reinforcing your brand every time a customer walks through the door.

3. Easy Identification for Guests

Nothing’s more frustrating for a customer than trying to work out who actually works there. Clear, uniformed attire solves that problem instantly. Whether it’s placing an order, asking for the bill, or getting help with a booking, customers should never be second-guessing who to approach.

Especially in large or busy venues, uniforms bring clarity and ease to the customer experience.

4. Improved Team Morale and Unity

Uniforms can boost a sense of pride and belonging among staff. When everyone wears the same attire, it fosters teamwork and equality. It removes the pressure of choosing what to wear, and instead creates a collective mindset: We’re in this together.

Well-fitted, comfortable uniforms can also improve productivity. No more fretting about stains, unsuitable shoes or overly casual outfits.

5. Health, Safety and Hygiene Compliance

In foodservice environments, uniforms aren’t just about looks—they’re essential for safety and hygiene:

Chefs’ whites are designed to withstand heat and protect from spills.

Aprons prevent cross-contamination.

Hair nets, hats, and non-slip shoes are vital in many kitchen settings.

Uniform policies also make it easier to spot when hygiene standards aren’t being met and ensure compliance with food safety regulations.

6. A Strong Visual Presence on Social Media

Let’s face it—if you're active on social media, visual consistency is key. Uniforms look sharp in team photos, help promote staff introductions, and create brand recognition online. Whether it’s a photo of your front-of-house team or your kitchen brigade plating up dishes, a smart uniform ties it all together.

Final Thoughts: Uniforms Mean Business

Having your restaurant or pub staff in uniform isn’t just about appearances—it’s about creating a positive, professional atmosphere for customers and staff alike. From hygiene and safety to branding and team spirit, a good uniform policy is one of the simplest ways to elevate your hospitality business.

So whether it’s time to refresh your team’s look or introduce a dress code for the first time, remember: your staff are the face of your business—make sure they’re dressed to impress.

How to Keep Chef’s Whites, Linen, and Waitstaff Uniforms Spotlessly Clean. And Why You Should Do This

Several years ago my wife and I regularly dined in a restaurant that was of high quality. However, over time we noticed that the standards were slipping. 

The final straw came when we realised that the chef's whites worn by the chef had become soiled to the point of being virtually black in places. We left without ordering.

When it comes to running a successful food and drink establishment, appearance matters just as much as flavour and service. 

One of the first things your customers notice is the cleanliness of your staff—particularly their uniforms. 

Spotless chef’s whites, crisp linen, and immaculate waitstaff attire create an immediate impression of professionalism, hygiene, and pride in your work.

Here’s how to keep your team looking their best, shift after shift:

1. Invest in High-Quality Fabrics

Start with quality. Durable, professional-grade uniforms and linens are designed to withstand regular washing, heat, and stains. While the initial outlay might be higher, they’ll last longer and clean more effectively over time, saving you money and hassle.

2. Pre-Treat Stains Immediately

In a kitchen or front-of-house setting, spills are inevitable. The trick is to treat them before they set in:

For grease: Apply a bit of washing-up liquid directly to the stain and gently rub it in before laundering.

For wine or sauce: Blot immediately with cold water, then soak in a mix of water and baking soda or use a commercial stain remover.

For protein stains (like milk or egg): Use cold water only—hot water can cook the stain into the fabric.

3. Create a Daily Laundry Routine

Consistency is key. Establish a daily laundry routine that includes:

Sorting by colour and fabric type to avoid cross-staining or damage.

Washing whites separately, using a professional-grade detergent with optical brighteners or a touch of oxygen bleach.

Using the appropriate temperature: Whites generally benefit from hotter washes (60°C or higher), but always check the care label.

4. Add a Whitening Boost

Even with the best intentions, whites can dull over time. Add a whitening agent to your wash once a week—something like a scoop of bicarbonate of soda, white vinegar, or a dedicated laundry whitener—to keep them bright.

5. Drying and Ironing for a Polished Look

Air-drying is best for longevity, but if you’re using a tumble dryer, remove items while still slightly damp to prevent deep creasing.

Uniforms should be ironed or steamed to keep them crisp—especially for front-of-house staff. It gives a polished, cared-for appearance that customers notice.

6. Have Spare Uniforms on Hand

Accidents happen mid-shift. Keep spare uniforms clean and ready so staff can change quickly if needed. This not only keeps up appearances but also boosts morale and confidence.

7. Consider a Professional Laundry Service

If you’re pressed for time or lack laundry facilities, a commercial laundry service can be a cost-effective solution. Many offer pick-up and delivery, and they have the equipment to tackle even the toughest stains and sanitisation requirements.

8. Educate Your Team

Make cleanliness everyone’s responsibility. Train your staff on how to handle spills, store soiled linen correctly, and report damage or heavily stained items.

Final Thoughts

Clean, well-maintained uniforms are more than just clothing—they’re a visual promise of professionalism, attention to detail, and hygiene. Whether you manage a small café or a bustling restaurant, taking pride in your team’s appearance helps set the tone for the quality of your service.

By putting systems in place and choosing the right materials and cleaning products, you can keep chef’s whites, linen, and uniforms looking spotless—and leave a lasting impression on every guest who walks through your doors.

Don't Miss Out: Final Tickets Remaining for the UK's Largest Free-from Event This Month

21st-22nd of June will see a community of over 15,000 people gather at Olympia, London for the largest free-from event in the UK. 

Backed by credible experts and trusted brands, The Allergy & Free From Show in partnership with Koko Dairy Free is a family-friendly, fun and inclusive day out for anyone interested in a free-from lifestyle. 

Consciously priced at an affordable £10 per day, very limited tickets are remaining for both Saturday and Sunday, with the event expected to sell out.

The iconic Grand Hall at Olympia will set the scene for three main stages presenting over 50 speakers. Steeped in history, the space will encompass a Live Kitchen (sponsored by Tesco) with cooking demonstrations and recipe ideas; the Inspiration Stage (sponsored by Koko Dairy Free) which offers fireside chats, celebrity guests and lived experience; plus the Education Stage (sponsored by Ready2React) where patrons can watch panel talks and receive practical advice and clinical guidance.

Headline guests drawing crowds to the show include Dr Rupy Aujla (The Doctor's Kitchen), Becky Excell (Queen of Gluten-Free) and Stephanie Davis (Hollyoaks and Coronation Street). Many more household names and industry influencers such as Professor Adam Fox, Dale Pinnock, Julianne Ponan MBE and Tyler and Lewis West, will feature across the stages.

Dubbed the 'medical Jamie Oliver', podcaster, author and TEDx speaker Dr Rupy Aujla has built a significant following and often appears on TV shows such as This Morning and Saturday Kitchen. Becky Excell is a Sunday Times best-selling author and specialist gluten-free cook, with a social following of over one million. Whilst Stephanie Davis , who is best known for TV roles in Coronation Street and Hollyoaks, has battled lifelong food allergies and is committed to supporting and inspiring others with the same challenges.

New features for 2025 include the Mindfulness Zone sponsored by Arla LactoFREE with practical mindfulness sessions; Allergies in the Home in partnership with Allergy UK, which showcases household solutions for allergy sufferers; and an entertaining and interactive Family Trail.

Bursting with more brands than ever before, The Allergy & Free From Show in partnership with Koko Dairy Free will showcase household names including TESCO, Marks & Spencer, Dr Schar, Warburtons Gluten Free, Balmonds Skin Clinic, EcoEgg and Kirsty's, alongside a host of innovative independents. There will be plenty of opportunities for learning, shopping and sampling.

The agenda on Saturday June 21st June is packed with live demonstrations, fireside chats, educative talks, panel discussions and clinics.

Inspiration Stage sponsored by Koko Dairy Free

Hosted by Morgan McKenzie Moore and featuring: Professor Adam Fox, Ruth Holroyd, Becky Excell, Sarah Howells, Ali Walsh, Lauren Harber, Lorna Gardner, Julianne Ponan MBE, Penny Hamilton, Jo Greenslade, Lucy Gulland, Nadim Ednan-Laperouse and Tanya Ednan-Laperouse.

The Live Kitchen sponsored by Tesco

Hosted by Steve Walpole and featuring: Sarah Howells, Adam Edwards, Jamie Robinson, Kate Lancaster, Francesca Della Penna and Dr Rupy Aujla.

The Education Stage sponsored by Ready2React

Hosted by Dr Jose Costa and featuring: Nic Wilson, Ready2React, Dr Glenis Scadding, Catherine Hobson, Simon Williams, Tracey Dunn, Ben Freedman, Betsy Craig and Asal Shirazi BEM.

Continuing on Sunday June 22nd June, the Show offers an exciting and informative timetable including fireside chats, live kitchen demonstrations, educative talks, panel discussions and clinics.

Inspiration Stage sponsored by Koko Dairy Free

Hosted by Morgan McKenzie Moore and featuring: Stephanie Davis, Dan Kelly, Kirsty Henshaw, Lucy Upton, Dr Karen Murphy, Jo Greenslade, Amena Warner, Dr Chloe Pasco-Gleeson, Tyler West and Lewis West.

The Live Kitchen sponsored by Tesco

Hosted by Nathalie Newman, featuring: Dale Pinnock 'The Medicinal Chef', Becky Excell, Julianne Ponan MBE and Eva Humphries.

The Education Stage sponsored by Ready2React

Hosted by Dr Jose Costa and featuring: Goldie Putrym, Paula Benedi, Stacey Forsey, Amy Langfield and Ali Walsh.

Mike Seaman, CEO of Raccoon Media Group told That's Food and Drink: “The Show draws together credible experts and brands at the forefront of the allergy and free-from community, making it a must-visit. 

"It has been a privilege to see this event develop into a go-to destination for all things free-from. The thirst for knowledge and empowerment from visitors is understandable when it is estimated that just under one third of the UK population is affected by allergies. 

"The Raccoon Media Group ethos is focused on mobilising passion-led communities. We endeavour to be at the forefront of driving connections and conversations that enable people to live healthier lives and I'm proud we are fulfilling that need within this space.”

The Allergy & Free From Show in partnership with Koko Dairy Free will open at 9am on Saturday 21st June, closing at 5pm, and will reopen 10am – 4pm on Sunday 22nd June, *with no entry after 2pm on the Sunday.

https://allergyshow.co.uk/

Ancient Indian Cures to Stop Excessive Sweating Naturally

Seating is a natural bodily function, but for many people, it can become excessive and uncomfortable—impacting confidence and daily life. 

In ancient India, long before modern antiperspirants, people relied on holistic Ayurvedic remedies and lifestyle practices to manage perspiration. These age-old methods focused on balancing the body’s internal heat and calming the mind.

Here are some tried-and-tested ancient Indian cures that may help curb excessive sweating the natural way.

1. Sandalwood Powder Paste

In Ayurveda, sandalwood is known for its cooling, astringent, and soothing properties.

How to use:

Mix 1–2 teaspoons of pure sandalwood powder with rose water or cold milk.

Apply the paste to areas prone to excessive sweating.

Let it dry for 15–20 minutes before rinsing off.

It helps reduce perspiration while leaving a pleasant natural fragrance.

2. Neem Leaves and Turmeric Wash

Neem and turmeric are powerful detoxifiers. Their antibacterial properties can also prevent body odour that often accompanies excessive sweating.

How to use:

Boil neem leaves in water along with a small piece of turmeric root or ½ tsp turmeric powder.

Let it cool and use it as a daily rinse or add to your bathwater.

This remedy purifies the skin and balances the pitta dosha (the Ayurvedic element associated with heat).

3. Amla Juice (Indian Gooseberry)

Amla is packed with vitamin C and helps cool the body from within.

How to use:

Drink 20–30 ml of fresh amla juice mixed with water each morning on an empty stomach.

Alternatively, consume it as a powder with honey.

Amla supports liver function and helps in detoxification—important for managing sweating.

4. Buttermilk and Coriander Drink

In Ayurveda, buttermilk (chaas) is a well-known cooling agent, especially when mixed with coriander or mint.

How to use:

Blend a cup of diluted yoghurt (or traditional buttermilk) with a handful of fresh coriander leaves and a pinch of cumin.

Drink once or twice daily in warmer months.

This not only cools the body but also supports digestion, which is closely linked to sweating in Ayurveda.

5. Rose Petal Water or Gulkand

Rose petals are known for their cooling and calming effects on the body.

How to use:

Add rose water to your drinking water.

Or take 1 tsp of gulkand (a sweet preserve of rose petals) twice a day.

This helps control heat-related sweating, especially on the face and upper body.

6. Lifestyle Practices: Yoga and Pranayama

Excessive sweating can also be linked to stress and emotional imbalance.

Try:

Daily yoga postures that reduce internal heat (like forward bends and gentle twists).

Cooling breathing techniques such as Sheetali or Sheetkari Pranayama.

These techniques reduce anxiety, regulate body temperature, and balance the nervous system.

⚖️ Ayurvedic Perspective: Balancing the Pitta Dosha

According to Ayurveda, excessive sweating is often a sign of an aggravated Pitta dosha. To bring it into balance:

Avoid spicy, oily, and fermented foods.

Favour cooling foods like cucumber, melons, coconut water, and leafy greens.

Stay hydrated and maintain a regular sleep routine.

Final Thoughts

Ancient Indian wisdom offers gentle yet effective ways to manage sweating by addressing both internal and external factors. While these remedies may take time and consistency, they offer a natural path to comfort—free from harsh chemicals or synthetic fragrances.

If excessive sweating continues to be a concern, especially if it's sudden or accompanied by other symptoms, it's important to consult a healthcare professional to rule out underlying conditions like hyperhidrosis or thyroid issues.

Family-Friendly Food Stops for the Summer Holidays

"Are we there yet?" is a question parents and grandparents have grown to dread. 

Another question that can fill adults on a long journey is: "I'm hungry! When can we eat?" 

Finding family-friendly (and dog-friendly) places to stop for food can be a bit challenging. However, That's Food and Drink has some goo news for you. 

The best-selling guidebook, The Extra Mile – Delicious Alternatives to Motorway Services, is here to help with you journey planning as the summer holidays loom.

It lists nearly 300 places to stop and eat across Britain, and they are all near motorway and main-road junctions. 

Pop a copy in the glovebox and let passengers search for new favourite pit-stops along the route as you get on with concentrating on your driving or taking aural instructions from your supercilious sounding satnav system.

What can readers of this foodie travel guide expect? 

Use the guide to find farm shops and meet-the-animals experiences; shaded outdoor eateries with play areas; dog-friendly cafés and restaurants and dog-walking fields; ice-cream parlours; and family-friendly attractions with cafés across Britain.

Examples of family-friendly eats

Low Sizergh Barn near J36 of the M6, Kendal, England. Watch cows being milked and explore their 'growing' social enterprise.

Forage Farm Shop near J35, M4, Cowbridge, Wales. Stylish indoor restauration and shopping plus al fresco and tented bench seating. Expect animals, ice-cream pop-ups, and chunky wooden play equipment.

Loch Leven's Larder, near J8, M90, Kinross, Scotland. Delicious, honest home-made food, with a loch-side heritage trail, buggy friendly 'whatever-the-weather' walk, and a play area.

Teals, near the A303, Sparkford, England. A new breed of road-side stop-off with stylish interiors, dog-jog field, orchard, beehives, and a gelato pop-up.

Feature The Extra Mile this summer

This Amazon #1 Bestseller and #1 Most Gifted guide is from Extra Mile Books, the publisher behind companion guides The Coastal Café Guide and The Farm Shop Guide. The Extra Mile has:

Over 275 places to eat and drink with times, descriptions, images, contact details

11 motorway-based maps

6 regional maps

QR codes to help you get directions more easily

Map showing places with EV chargers

Buy for your own glovebox or as a gift.

Find fuller information on The Extra Mile here https://theextramile.guide/product/the-extra-mile-ed-4-2023/

The price is £15.99.

Growing Anticipation for a Great British Summer Time as Outdoor Dining Boosts UK Restaurants

As the UK embraces warmer summer months, outdoor dining is proving to be a significant driver for the hospitality sector. 

According to Lightspeed data, between April 2024 and March 2025, during warmer months, restaurants experienced an 8.42% increase in transactions, highlighting the consumer appetite for al fresco experiences. This increase is correlated with the opening of the alfresco dining season in the UK.

With a 2022 survey revealing 75% of UK diners want more outdoor dining options, and 69% actively seek venues offering these experiences. 

It’s not just the South that is enjoying the rays; major cities like Manchester have also become hotspots for outdoor dining, second only to London in popularity.

Restaurants are capitalising on the enthusiasm for outdoor dining by expanding outdoor seating, enhancing ambience with canopies and heaters, and tailoring menus to suit the outdoor dining experience. 

With dishes and drinks that are well appreciated in the summer, like tapas and meze plates, which promote a social style of dining, experiencing the delights of holidays in the sun is closer to home.

Restaurants are capitalising on the enthusiasm for outdoor dining by expanding seating, enhancing ambience with canopies, heaters, and lighting to set the mood—whether for a romantic candlelit dinner or a lively weekend brunch—and tailoring menus to suit the al fresco experience. 

With summer-friendly dishes and drinks like tapas and meze plates that encourage a social style of dining, the delights of holidays in the sun feel closer to home. With higher demand in the summer months1 restaurants can scale up staffing and improve systems to help more efficiently manage increased customer flow and maintain service quality.

Making dining out easier through mobile ordering and payment solutions can improve the service flow, reducing congestion and enhancing efficiency in the kitchen. Diners can browse the menu, place their orders, and settle their bills seamlessly, all from the convenience of their smartphones.

Liam Crooks, Managing Director, EMEA at Lightspeed, told That's Food and Drink: "As Brits embrace the joy of dining outdoors, we’re seeing restaurants up and down the country respond with innovation and energy. 

"Whether it’s expanding seating areas, refining service with mobile tech, or curating menus that capture the essence of summer, operators are seizing this opportunity to elevate the guest experience. This trend isn’t just a seasonal shift—it’s an opportunity for businesses ready to adapt to evolving consumer expectations."

Do you like outdoor dining? Please let us know in the comments below. 

https://www.lightspeedhq.co.uk

Marco Polo Intercontinental Enters the Coffee Market with Premium Mexican Beans and First Partner Farm

Marco Polo Intercontinental Limited, a global leader in premium food and beverage trading since 2012, proudly announces the launch of Marco Polo Premium Coffee Beans—a bold new venture set to make waves in the coffee industry. 

With a strong heritage in coffee cultivation dating back to 1994, Marco Polo is bringing the finest Mexican Arabica beans to roasters and distributors worldwide, signalling its arrival as a major player in the coffee game.

At the heart of this launch is a newly established partnership with a leading coffee farm in Chiapas, Mexico, formalised in April 2025. Sourced from Mexico’s premier coffee-growing regions—Chiapas, Veracruz, and Puebla—at elevations of 600–1,200 metres, these speciality-grade Arabica beans deliver delightful, complex flavours, from bright citrus and chocolate to fruity and nutty notes.

With cup scores ranging from 73 to 84, the beans are hand-harvested, processed within 8 hours for peak freshness, and certified by 4C, UTZ, Rainforest Alliance, Halal, and Kosher, ensuring sustainability and ethical sourcing.

“Marco Polo has arrived, and we’re here to redefine what premium coffee means for roasters and distributors,” Rhys Aldous, Director of Global Sales at Marco Polo Premium Coffee Beans, told That's Food and Drink.

“Our partnership with Mexican coffee farms is only the beginning. We’re committed to delivering exceptional quality whilst supporting farmers and sustainable practices. These beans are a testament to Mexico’s rich coffee heritage, and we can’t wait to see them in the hands of coffee professionals worldwide.”

Marco Polo Premium Coffee Beans are now available for roasters and distributors who are eager to elevate their offerings with sustainably sourced, high-quality coffee. Fresh stock from last year’s harvest is readily available, showcasing the finest Mexican Arabica beans. 

Visit https://coffee.marcopolointercontinental.com to learn more.

FACTFILE:

Headquartered in Chichester, UK, Marco Polo Intercontinental Limited specialises in trading premium food and beverages globally. Established in 2012, Marco Polo builds on a coffee cultivation legacy dating back to 1994 through its partner farms in Mexico. 

Renowned for its robust trading history and esteemed reputation, the company is dedicated to quality, sustainability, and forging meaningful partnerships with farmers to deliver exceptional products to the market.