The Simple Pleasure of Strawberries and Cream

Sometimes, the finest things in life are the simplest. And few combinations capture the essence of British summertime quite like a bowl of fresh strawberries and cream.

Whether you’re sitting in a deckchair watching the tennis at Wimbledon, enjoying a picnic in the park, or rounding off a garden barbecue, strawberries and cream is a timeless treat that brings a smile to everyone’s face. 

It’s more than just a dessert, it’s a taste of sunshine, nostalgia, and effortless indulgence.

A Match Made in Heaven

There’s a reason strawberries and cream have stood the test of time. The natural sweetness and slight tang of ripe strawberries is perfectly balanced by the rich, silky smoothness of cream. It’s a textural delight too, soft, juicy fruit contrasting with that cool, velvety drizzle.

This classic pairing dates back to Tudor times, with legend attributing its popularity to Thomas Wolsey, a close associate of Henry VIII. Yet despite its long history, it has never gone out of fashion, and for good reason.

Local and Seasonal

Strawberries are at their best when they’re in season, typically from late May through July in the UK. Buying British berries means you’re supporting local growers and getting the freshest, most flavourful fruit available. 

Look for plump, deep red berries with a fragrant aroma. And whatever you do, don’t store them in the fridge for too long, strawberries are best eaten fresh and slightly warm from the sun.

Wash them and remove the tops before serving them.

You can keep things traditional with a splash of single cream or go richer with double cream. Some prefer theirs whipped, others lightly poured. A dusting of sugar or a hint of vanilla is optional, but really, the stars of the show speak for themselves.

Dress It Up (Or Don’t)

While strawberries and cream are glorious in their simplest form, there’s room for play if you fancy getting creative. Add a twist with a crack of black pepper or a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Layer it up with crushed meringue for an impromptu Eton Mess. Or pop it on top of a scone for a glorious nod to afternoon tea.

But more often than not, the plain and pure version is the one that hits the spot.

A Bowlful of Joy

In a world that’s constantly rushing, the ritual of sitting down with strawberries and cream is a small, delicious act of slowing down. It’s a dish that doesn’t demand fuss or finesse. It simply invites you to enjoy.

So next time the sun peeks through the clouds, head to your local greengrocer, grab a punnet of strawberries, and pour over the cream. Because sometimes, happiness really is that easy.

How to Recycle Water at Home to Keep Your Vegetable Patch Green and Lush

As summer heats up and hosepipe bans become more common across the UK, keeping your vegetable patch well-watered can be a bit of a challenge. 

Thankfully, there are plenty of clever ways to recycle water in your home and garden to nourish your crops while saving money and protecting the environment. 

Here's how to keep your patch green, lush and productive, without wasting a drop.

1. Harvest Rainwater

This is one of the simplest and most effective ways to recycle water. Fitting a water butt to your downpipe lets you collect rainwater from your roof. Use it to water your vegetables, clean garden tools or top up your pond. Some councils even offer discounts on water butts, so it’s worth checking.

Tip: Keep your water butt covered to prevent algae growth and stop mosquitoes from breeding.

2. Reuse Grey Water

Grey water is gently used water from your sink, shower, bath or washing machine. It can be reused in your garden, provided it’s free from harsh chemicals.

Dos:

Use eco-friendly soaps and detergents.

Collect water in a bucket while waiting for your shower to warm up.

Let bath water cool and siphon it out to water the garden.

Don’ts:

Avoid using kitchen water that contains grease or food particles.

Don’t store grey water too long, best to use it within 24 hours.

3. Repurpose Cooking Water

Water used to boil vegetables, pasta or rice is rich in nutrients that can benefit your garden. Let it cool, then pour it onto the soil near the roots of your veg plants.

Note: Don’t use salted water, salt can damage your plants and soil over time.

4. Capture “Hidden” Water

It’s surprising how much clean water we waste daily. Consider:

Putting a bowl in your kitchen sink to catch rinse water.

Collecting leftover drinking water from glasses or pet bowls.

Positioning a bucket outside to catch condensation from air conditioners or dehumidifiers.

Every drop adds up.

5. Mulch and Soil Improvement

While not technically water recycling, using mulch helps your soil retain recycled water better. Apply a thick layer of compost, straw, bark or grass clippings around your plants to reduce evaporation.

Also, improving your soil with organic matter boosts its water-holding capacity, so your reused water goes further.

6. Plant Strategically

Grow drought-tolerant vegetables such as courgettes, Swiss chard, beetroot, and runner beans. Plant in clusters to create shade and reduce water loss from the soil surface.

A Note on Safety

Avoid using grey water on crops you’ll eat raw (like salad leaves), especially if it comes into contact with the edible part of the plant. Stick to watering the soil—not the leaves—and rinse veg thoroughly before eating.

Final Thoughts

Recycling water isn’t just smart, it’s essential in an age of rising temperatures and unpredictable weather. By harvesting rain, reusing grey water and making small tweaks to your routine, you can keep your vegetable patch thriving through even the driest spells.

Also, it will help reduce your water bill, too.

Have you tried any of these techniques? Share your home water-saving tips in the comments!

Cow & Sow Revolutionises Customer Loyalty With "The Butcher's Club": A Seamless, Wallet-Based Membership Scheme

Cow & Sow, the acclaimed steak restaurant, today announced the official launch of "The Butcher's Club", its innovative, wallet-based membership scheme, marking a new era in customer engagement within the hospitality sector. 

The programme has already seen remarkable success, attracting over 600 members within 10 days from launching, underscoring the demand for modern, friction-free reward solutions and exclusive experiences.

"The Butcher's Club" redefines the traditional loyalty card by operating entirely as a phone wallet-based system, eliminating the need for a separate app. Guests simply scan their digital wallet pass on every visit to "earn & burn" rewards, making the process incredibly convenient and seamless. 

Adding to the fun, all guests are invited to 'Spin the Wheel' upon signing up and after each subsequent visit, with a guaranteed win of 1 in 6 exciting rewards for their next visit.

"We believe loyalty should be effortless and genuinely rewarding," Mark Warburton, founder of Cow & Sow, told That's Food and Drink. 

"With 'The Butcher's Club', we've leveraged COMO's technology to create a subscription programme that integrates directly into our guests' digital lives, offering instant benefits and exclusive experiences without the hassle of another app download. 

"The incredible response of 600 sign-ups in our first 10 days demonstrates how eagerly our customers have embraced this innovative approach." 

The programme offers a tiered subscription membership structure, catering to various levels of engagement:

The Apprentice Butcher: Free to join for all, providing a welcome 'Spin the Wheel' (1 of 6 instant win rewards), early access to new menus and special events, monthly member-only rewards and perks, and a free drink on your birthday.

The Journeyman Butcher: A premium tier at £40 per month subscription via direct debit, offering all Apprentice benefits plus a branded Cow & Sow hoodie welcome gift, a complimentary single-cut steak of the month (with side & sauce), and a bottle of Cow & Sow Malbec every month. Perks are valued at over £80 per month plus a £40 sign-up gift.

The Master Butcher: The top tier at £65 per month subscription via direct debit, includes all Apprentice benefits, a branded hoodie and two wine glasses as a welcome gift, a monthly complimentary sharing steak (with 2 sides & sauces), a monthly bottle of Cow & Sow Malbec, a bottle of Henners Sparkling Wine on your birthday, priority WhatsApp concierge & fast-track booking, and exclusive tasting & feedback events invites. Perks for this tier are valued at over £130 per month plus an £80 sign-up gift.

The Business Ambassador: Join their waiting list for this exclusive, invite-only scheme designed for local businesses, offering tailored rewards and incentives for corporate clients and their employees. Contact anna@thecowandsow.co.uk to learn more.

Through 'The Butcher's Club,' Cow & Sow is committed to turning great meals into unforgettable experiences for its regular guests, offering a dynamic array of rewards, promotions, and incentives. Members can use their benefits at all Cow & Sow locations, including Birmingham, Bristol, and Clifton sites.

FACTFILE:-

Cow & Sow: Cow & Sow is a leading B-Corp certified steak restaurant dedicated to providing exceptional dining experiences across its locations in Birmingham, Bristol, and Clifton. Known for its commitment to quality ingredients, outstanding customer satisfaction, and ethical business practices, Cow & Sow continues to innovate within the hospitality sector. The restaurant focuses on sourcing high-quality produce and creating memorable dining moments that encourage repeat visits and foster a loyal customer base.

Mark Warburton: Mark Warburton is the visionary founder of Cow & Sow, driving the brand's growth and its innovative approach to hospitality. His leadership has been instrumental in establishing Cow & Sow as a respected name in the steak restaurant industry. For more on Mark Warburton's journey, please visit: https://thecowandsow.co.uk/timeline-mark-warburton

B-Corp Certification: Cow & Sow is proud to be a B-Corp certified business, demonstrating its commitment to meeting high standards of verified performance, accountability, and transparency on factors from employee benefits and charitable giving to supply chain practices and input materials. This certification reflects Cow & Sow's dedication to balancing profit with purpose, using business as a force for good. For more on Cow & Sow's journey as a responsible business, visit: https://thecowandsow.co.uk/cow-sow-journey

The Butcher's Club: Learn more about the membership scheme and sign up: https://thecowandsow.co.uk/butchersclub

Partnerships: Explore Cow & Sow's various local business and VIP schemes: https://thecowandsow.co.uk/partnerships

The Business Ambassador: Contact anna@thecowandsow.co.uk

Website: https://thecowandsow.co.uk

Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/thecowandsow

https://www.tiktok.com/@thecowandsow

https://www.facebook.com/cowandsowbirmingham

https://www.facebook.com/cowandsowclifton

https://www.facebook.com/cowandsowqueensquare

Cook Fearlessly: Angus & Oink Launches Bold New Seasonings, Sauces and Meal Kits in Tesco

Cook Fearlessly with Angus & Oink's bold new seasonings, sauces and meal kits - inspired by street food and barbecue hotspots around the world, new lines now landing exclusively at Tesco for 16 weeks.

The new lineup, which includes barbecue-inspired sachets, globally influenced seasonings, vibrant sauces and fuss-free meal kits, is designed to bring next-level flavour to kitchens everywhere, perfect for Friday night fakeaways to quick midweek dinners and barbecues.

Discover the range:

6 NEW: Angus & Oink Rub Me Seasonings - RRP £2.75

Shake over chicken, sprinkle on roast veg or swirl through mayo - the options are endless. 

Rootin' Tootin' Red Cajun Seasoning 60g: Made from paprika, dried chilli and dried garlic

Exodus Jamaican Jerk 60g: Jamaican inspired seasoning made from sugar, black pepper, allspice and lime juice

Honey Chilli Hong Kong Sweet n Sour 60g: Garlic, five spice, jalapeno chilli and honey powder

Seoul Food Korean Seasoning 65g: Made from five spice, sesame and dried chilli

Big Phat Greek Souvlaki & Gyro 50g: Made from sea salt, paprika, dried lemon and herbs

Chinese Takeaway Salt & Pepper Chilli 55g: Made from dried chilli, garlic, five spice and dried onion

4 NEW: Angus & Oink Rub Me BBQ inspired sachets - 30g RRP £1.35

Bring global flavours to your next summer BBQ. There is a whole world of difference between cooking styles in US states from Kansas to Texas style BBQ. These sachets are inspired by regional USA BBQ flavours - Carolina, Texas, Memphis and Kensas - that show the true difference in flavours.

4 NEW: Angus & Oink Sauce Me - RRP £2.85

This range of four sauces can be used as a marinade, dipping sauce or a glaze. All are suitable for vegetarians.

These sauces are a blast of flavour for lovers of big bold flavours. Crispy Korean Fried Chicken is the ultimate crowd pleaser and Wing King is incredible on crispy chicken. Cherry Cola is a playful cross over of sauce and soda flavours, insanely good on everything!

Gold Rush: Honey Buffalo Sauce 295g: Buffalo inspired sauce with malt vinegar, honey, chilli and garlic

Blue Suede Que: Memphis Bar-B-Que Sauce 325g: A Memphis inspired BBQ sauce with tomato paste, black treacle and ground spices. 

Wing King: Korean BBQ Sauce 330g: Korean inspired BBQ sauce with miso paste, soy sauce and five spice

Rock n Rolla: Cherry Cola BBQ Sauce 325g:  Cherry cola flavoured BBQ sauce with tomato paste and ground spices. Pairs perfectly with pork, beef and chicken

4 NEW: Angus & Oink Make Me Meal Kits RRP £3.85

Take midweek dinners to the next level and make fakeaway classics with Angus & Oink Make Me Meal Kits.

Scott Fraser, Angus & Oink co-owner told That's Food and Drink: “The seasonings have been inspired by our travels - we take real pride in producing the most authentic flavour experience possible. We've been so lucky with work and travels that have taken us to places such as Louisiana, Trinidad, Hong Kong and Greece. Creating the essence of these culinary destinations is our passion and enables our customers to Cook Fearlessly in their own kitchens.”

Founded after nearly a decade living and working across the Americas and Middle East, husband and wife Scott and Malissa Fraser were inspired to bring authentic, globally influenced flavours back home to Scotland. 

Their travels sparked a passion for bold, barbecue-driven dishes, motivating them to start Angus & Oink in their Aberdeen kitchen in 2013. Since then, Scott has even represented Scotland at the prestigious Jack Daniel's World BBQ Championship in Tennessee and the Kansas City Royal, sharing his love of wood-fired cooking with audiences far beyond the UK.

For more delicious ideas, recipes, and products, visit www.angusandoink.com or follow @angusandoink on Instagram and Facebook.

Why Loud Music Has No Place in a High-End Dining Establishment

Loud music can be exhilarating, energising, and even liberating – but it needs the right setting. A nightclub? Certainly. A bustling city bar? Absolutely. 

But when it comes to high-end restaurants and fine dining establishments, blaring beats and booming basslines simply don't belong.

Here’s why:

1. Fine Dining is About Atmosphere – Not Assaulting the Senses

High-end dining is meant to be a sensory experience: beautifully presented food, refined service, elegant surroundings, and a peaceful ambiance. Loud music shatters that atmosphere. Diners aren’t there to shout over their carpaccio or raise their voice to order a wine pairing. They expect sophistication, calm, and a space that allows conversation and focus on the meal.

2. People Pay for the Whole Experience – Not Just the Food

When someone books a table at a prestigious restaurant, they’re investing in the full package. They want to savour the flavours, enjoy the company they’re with, and immerse themselves in a carefully curated environment. When the music is too loud, it interrupts that flow – and it can come across as disrespectful to the culinary artistry on display.

3. Noise Destroys Nuance

Fine food is all about subtlety. A delicate drizzle of a quality oil, the quiet fizz of a perfectly chilled Champagne, the gentle clink of cutlery. These small but significant touches help create the magic. Loud music flattens these nuances and turns the evening into a rushed or uncomfortable affair.

4. Conversation Shouldn't Be a Struggle

Many people visit high-end restaurants for special occasions: birthdays, anniversaries, client meetings, proposals. If guests can’t hear each other without leaning in or repeating themselves, the moment is lost. Worse still, it may lead to negative reviews or word-of-mouth complaints that no restaurant wants to attract.

5. Music Can Enhance – But Only If It’s Balanced

No one is suggesting restaurants should be silent. A soft background playlist can be a wonderful enhancer – jazz, classical, or acoustic tunes that create mood without overpowering the space. But volume matters. The music should complement, not compete.

6. Hearing Damage and Discomfort

It may seem dramatic, but constant exposure to loud music can cause real discomfort or even harm. For guests and staff alike, the volume matters. In fact, in some cases, excessive decibels could contravene workplace safety laws.

7. Your Clientele Matters

A high-end restaurant typically caters to diners who appreciate elegance, discretion, and comfort. These are not the same people who relish clubbing until 3am. Understanding your clientele – their preferences, expectations and tolerance levels – is key to curating the right experience.

In Summary

There’s a time and place for loud music, but a fine dining restaurant isn’t it. If the chef has spent hours crafting a multi-course tasting menu, the ambience should match that care. Let the flavours sing, let the conversation flow, and save the dance beats for venues where dancing is the main event.

If you want your restaurant remembered for its elegance and excellence – not its decibels – keep the volume low and the experience high.

Why Training Your Kitchen and Serving Staff Is Absolutely Vital: A Real-Life Wake-Up Call

Running a café, pub, hotel or restaurant isn’t just about having the right décor, delicious food, or an Instagram-friendly drinks menu. 

It’s also about the team behind the scenes – and what they do (or don't do) when the pressure’s on. One overheard moment recently reminded me just how crucial proper training really is.

The Incident That Said It All

I was in a café recently when, after I had placed our orders, I heard a young new employee nervously blurt out, “But I can’t make a black coffee! I’ve not been trained to do that!” 

I was a bit taken aback, after all, making a black coffee is hardly high science. No foam art, no fancy syrup, just coffee and hot water. But what happened next was even worse.

She made what could only be described as a crime against caffeine, it was a bitter, murky concoction that tasted like it had been stewed in an ashtray. Seconds later, she handed over a "double Dubai chocolate milkshake" that somehow had no chocolate in it at all.

It was laughable – and yet completely avoidable.

Why Staff Training Matters So Much

This little episode is a textbook example of why you must never throw untrained staff onto the floor or behind the counter and expect great results. Here's why training is vital:

1. It Protects Your Reputation

One terrible drink or meal can undo a dozen great reviews. When customers receive subpar service or poorly made food and drink, they won’t always complain – they’ll just never come back. Worse still, they might share their bad experience on social media.

2. Consistency Builds Customer Loyalty

Your regulars come back because they know what to expect. Whether it’s the perfect frothy cappuccino, the way your chips are always crisped just right, or the friendly greeting at the door – consistency is key. That only comes with proper, repeatable training.

3. Confidence Leads to Better Service

Staff who feel confident in their roles are more likely to take initiative, engage with customers positively, and perform well under pressure. Tossing someone into the deep end without showing them how things are done creates stress, confusion, and resentment – and that spills over to the customer experience.

4. Mistakes Cost Time and Money

Wasting ingredients, remaking orders, or dealing with complaints eats into your profit margin and slows down service. A chocolate milkshake with no chocolate isn’t just embarrassing – it’s wasteful.

5. Hygiene and Safety Depend on It

Poorly trained staff may not know proper hygiene protocols, cross-contamination risks, or safe food handling practices. That’s not just a bad look – it’s potentially dangerous, and could get your establishment into legal trouble.

What Proper Training Should Cover

Menu knowledge – Every staff member should understand how every item is made and what’s in it.

Equipment use – From coffee machines to blenders, staff must be shown how to use things correctly.

Customer interaction – Friendly greetings, how to take orders efficiently, and how to handle complaints.

Food safety and hygiene – Clean hands, clean stations, correct storage and handling.

Teamwork and timing – How to keep things flowing smoothly even during busy times.

Final Thoughts

Investing time in staff training isn’t a luxury – it’s an absolute necessity. That moment of chaos with the black coffee and chocolate-less milkshake may have seemed minor to the casual observer, but it speaks volumes. In hospitality, the details matter. Get the training right, and everything else flows from there – smoother service, happier customers, and a stronger reputation.

If you run or manage an eatery, let this be a reminder: train your team before you expect them to perform. Because if they’re not ready, your customers will notice – and your business will pay the price.

25 Things We Absolutely Hate in an Eating Place

Let’s be honest, while dining out is often a treat, it can sometimes turn into a trial. Whether it’s a high-end restaurant or a humble local café, there are certain things that simply ruin the experience. 

Here are 25 things people really hate in an eating place – and once you notice them, you can’t unsee them…

1. Sticky Menus

If your menu feels like it’s been dipped in syrup, that’s not just gross, it’s a hygiene red flag.

2. Overly Bright Lighting

Unless it's a canteen or a dentist’s waiting room, there’s no need to feel like you’re under interrogation lights while trying to enjoy your lasagne.

3. Loud Music

You shouldn’t have to lip-read your dinner companion because the restaurant thinks it’s Ibiza 2007.

4. Dirty Tables

Wipe them down properly. Crumbs and sticky patches are not part of the décor.

5. Obnoxious Smells

Whether it’s burnt oil, bleach or something more mysterious, unpleasant odours can kill an appetite fast.

6. Miserable Staff

No one’s expecting jazz hands, but basic courtesy goes a long way.

7. Menus with No Prices

If you have to ask, you probably can’t afford it – and that’s never a good look.

8. Ridiculous Portion Sizes

Either insultingly tiny or cartoonishly massive – just serve normal food, please.

9. Complicated Menus

If it takes longer to read the menu than eat the meal, it’s too long.

10. Wobbly Tables

Ever tried to cut a steak while your drink threatens to slosh over the edge? Exactly.

11. Tacky Décor

Fake vines, flashing fairy lights, and dusty plastic fruit should’ve stayed in the 90s.

12. Hidden Service Charges

If you’re adding 15% without warning, at least print it somewhere people can see.

13. Toilets That Smell Like Hell

Clean facilities aren’t a luxury – they’re the bare minimum.

14. Too Many Specials

Six pages of daily specials? Just admit it’s your backup menu.

15. Weirdly Themed Everything

A subtle theme is fun. A pirate-themed sushi bar? Slightly terrifying.

16. Overattentive Staff

Don’t hover, don’t ask if everything’s alright every 3 minutes – we’ll raise a hand if we need help.

17. Undercooked or Cold Food

If it’s meant to be hot, make sure it actually is. Lukewarm chips are just sad.

18. Overuse of Truffle Oil

You’re not fooling anyone. A drizzle does not make it fancy.

19. Pretentious Menu Language

Just say “chicken with mash”, not “free-range poultry atop a heritage potato puree”.

20. Overpriced Tap Water

£3.50 for a carafe of ‘filtered house water’? Behave!

21. Slow Service When It’s Quiet

If there are four diners and ten staff, why are we waiting 30 minutes for toast?

22. Kids' Menus with Just Nuggets

Children deserve variety too. Give them a pasta option at least.

23. Uncomfortable Chairs

Design is nice, but not when your bum goes numb after five minutes.

24. WiFi That Doesn’t Work

If you’ve given out the password, make sure the signal works beyond the entrance.

25. Noisy Hand Dryers Right by the Tables

Nothing ruins your pudding quite like a thunderous blast of warm air two feet away.

Final Thoughts

Eating out should be a joy, not an endurance test. If any of these gripes sound familiar, maybe it's time we all start expecting – and demanding – better. Clean tables, honest menus, decent service and edible food. It’s not too much to ask… is it?

Have any more pet hates in a restaurant, café or bistro? Drop them in the comments – let’s make the world of dining less irritating, one meal at a time!

25 Things We Absolutely Love in a Great Eating Place

Because a meal out is about more than just the food…

There’s something special about finding an eating place, whether it’s a cosy café, a rustic pub, or a sleek modern restaurant, a hotel dining room, that just gets it right. 

It’s not just about what’s on the plate. The atmosphere, the service, and the little touches all add up to create a dining experience we want to repeat. 

Here are 25 things we absolutely love in a great eating spot:

1. A Warm Welcome

A friendly greeting when you walk through the door sets the tone for the entire visit.

2. Comfortable Seating

Whether you're perched on a bench or sunk into a plush chair, comfort matters when you’re lingering over food.

3. Well-Trained Staff

Knowledgeable, courteous, and attentive without being intrusive – it makes all the difference.

4. Menus with Personality

A well-written menu (even better if it's seasonal and handwritten on a chalkboard) shows care and creativity.

5. Locally Sourced Ingredients

We love a place that champions nearby farms, dairies, fisheries, and breweries.

6. Decent Portion Sizes

Whether it’s a hearty Sunday roast or a dainty afternoon tea, the balance should feel just right.

7. Cleanliness

From cutlery to the loos – cleanliness is non-negotiable.

8. Background Music at the Right Volume

The right soundtrack enhances the vibe without drowning out conversation.

9. Thoughtful Lighting

No one wants to eat under stark strip lights or in the dark. Cosy, warm lighting wins every time.

10. Free Tap Water Without a Fuss

Being handed a carafe of water without needing to ask twice is a subtle sign of hospitality.

11. Menu Variety

Enough options to please everyone without being overwhelmed by a novel-length list.

12. Clear Labelling for Allergens and Dietary Needs

We love places that take allergies, vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free diners seriously.

13. Decent Coffee and Tea

For many, the hot drinks are as important as the meal itself. A good builder’s brew or freshly ground espresso? Yes, please.

14. Homemade Desserts

It’s always obvious when the puds are made on-site – and we appreciate the effort.

15. Stylish but Not Stuffy Décor

A place with character is more inviting than one trying too hard to be ‘on trend’.

16. Decent Value

We don’t mind paying for quality – but overcharging for mediocrity is a no-go.

17. Child-Friendly Options

Whether it’s a good kids’ menu, baby-changing facilities or colouring-in sheets, thoughtfulness goes a long way.

18. Well-Stocked Bar or Drink Selection

Craft ales, great wine, mocktails, local soft drinks – options are always welcome.

19. Quick but Not Rushed Service

Perfect timing feels effortless, but it takes real skill to get it just right.

20. Tables with a View

Whether it’s a window seat or a lovely garden terrace, a good view makes a meal more memorable.

21. Sustainable Practices

We appreciate venues that reduce plastic, recycle, compost and use ethical suppliers.

22. Accessible Facilities

Wheelchair access, step-free entrances, and accessible loos should be standard, not a bonus.

23. Daily Specials

Fresh ideas and a changing specials board keep things interesting.

24. Loyalty Perks or Community Spirit

From a stamp card to fundraising for local causes, we love when places build bonds with their patrons.

25. Happy Atmosphere

When the staff are smiling, the diners are relaxed, and the air feels full of good cheer, you know you’re in the right spot.

Every great eating place tells a story – not just on the plate, but through the little details that show heart, thought, and pride. What do you love most in your favourite café, restaurant or pub?

Let us know in the comments or tag us on social media with your best dining finds!

How to Have Respectful Picnics in Churchyards

Churchyards, with their peaceful greenery and centuries-old gravestones, can seem like inviting places for a quiet rest or even a picnic on a warm day. 

But it’s vital to remember that these spaces are sacred and hold deep meaning for many. 

If you're considering a churchyard as a picnic spot, here’s how to do so with care, respect, and thoughtfulness.

Why Choose a Churchyard?

Churchyards often offer calm, beautiful spots with shade, wildlife, and a connection to the past. Some are part of open heritage sites or nature conservation areas, and in many rural communities, they are the green heart of the village. They’re not just places of worship and remembrance but also of reflection and local history.

Check Permission First

Not all churchyards allow picnicking. Before getting out your food, take the time to:

Look for signs that may indicate whether food is permitted.

Contact the church office or vicar if unsure.

Check if the site is part of a historic trust or managed estate like the Church of England’s ChurchCare, which may have guidelines.

How to Picnic Respectfully

If you’re confident that quiet picnicking is allowed, follow these etiquette tips:

1. Stay Clear of Graves

Never sit or set up a picnic directly on or right beside a grave. Even older headstones deserve respect, and someone may still visit to pay their respects.

2. Keep It Quiet

Opt for gentle conversation, no music, and keep children from running over graves. This isn’t the spot for loud games or boisterous chatter.

3. Use Reusable or Eco-Friendly Packaging

Respect for the space includes respect for nature. Bring reusable containers, avoid single-use plastics, and carry your rubbish home.

4. Choose a Discreet Spot

A shady spot under a tree, away from the main pathways and not in view of mourners, is ideal. Blend in, don’t dominate.

5. Clean Up Thoroughly

Leave no trace. Pick up every crumb, wipe away any spills, and ensure the site looks untouched when you leave.

6. Dress Appropriately

No need to be formal, but modest, tidy attire is more in keeping with the surroundings than beachwear or bare feet.

Be Aware of Services and Visitors

Churches are active places. Funerals, weddings, and regular services may happen without notice. If you arrive and see an event taking place, quietly and respectfully move on. People may be grieving or in deep thought — even if your picnic seems discreet, it may feel inappropriate to those visiting loved ones.

Supporting the Church

If you do use the space and appreciate it, consider giving back:

Pop a small donation in the church collection box.

Join a conservation or volunteer group for the site.

Share the experience with others in a way that promotes respect and heritage, not just a trendy picnic spot.

Final Thoughts

Picnicking in a churchyard can be a beautiful way to connect with nature and history. But it must be done with reverence and mindfulness. These are places of peace, remembrance, and faith. By showing respect, you ensure they remain welcoming and undamaged for future generations.

Tip for bloggers or visitors: If you’re taking photos, avoid including gravestones unless you’ve blurred names or are photographing general scenery. Always prioritise dignity.

Plan the Perfect Day Out with Pub and Restaurant Apps

Whether you're exploring a new town, enjoying a weekend away, or simply planning a leisurely afternoon with friends, modern pub and restaurant apps can be your best mate. 

These handy tools help you discover hidden gems, check menus, book tables, and even order ahead, all from the palm of your hand. 

Here’s how to make the most of them when planning a great day out.

1. Discover What’s Nearby

Many apps use GPS to show you the nearest places to eat or drink. Apps like the Wetherspoon app, Greene King, Stonegate Pubs, and Chef & Brewer allow you to find the closest venues with ease. Perfect for when you're somewhere unfamiliar or want to explore your local area more thoroughly.

Top tip: Apps often list lesser-known or independently run pubs and eateries as well, depending on the chain or aggregator. Try OpenTable or DesignMyNight for broader searches.

2. Check Menus and Dietary Options in Advance

Nothing ruins a day out faster than discovering there's nothing you can (or want to) eat. With pub and restaurant apps, you can browse menus in advance, check for vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free or allergen-friendly options, and even view pricing.

Helpful apps:

Wetherspoon app (full menu with pricing)

Toby Carvery app (customisable meals and allergy info)

Prezzo app (includes nutritional info and meal customisation)

3. Reserve a Table or Book Ahead

Popular places get busy, especially on weekends and holidays. Avoid disappointment by booking ahead through the app. Most major chains offer real-time reservations, and some even allow you to pick your table.

Try apps like:

OpenTable

ResDiary

Vintage Inns app

4. Order and Pay from the Table

No need to queue at the bar! Many apps now let you order food and drinks directly from your phone. This is a game-changer for group outings or when you're settled in a cosy beer garden and don’t want to move, or don't want to lose your table.

Especially handy on the:

Wetherspoon app

Greene King app

Revolution Bars app

5. Take Advantage of Offers and Loyalty Schemes

Many pub and restaurant apps include exclusive deals, discounts, and loyalty programmes. Check the app before you order, you might find a 2-for-1 offer, a free dessert, or discounted drinks. Some apps even offer points that can be redeemed later.

Example apps:

Greene King Season Ticket

Harvester app

Beefeater app

6. Find Dog-Friendly or Family-Friendly Spots

Some apps offer filters to find dog-friendly, child-friendly, or accessible venues. This is especially useful when planning a family day out or including your four-legged friend.

7. Get Directions and Transport Info

Apps often integrate with maps to provide directions or public transport info. Whether you're walking, driving, or catching a train, it’s a handy feature to ensure your day out runs smoothly.

Final Thoughts

Using pub and restaurant apps isn’t just about convenience, it’s about making your day out more enjoyable, more spontaneous, and more informed. With real-time info, easy ordering, and special offers at your fingertips, planning a fun and stress-free outing has never been easier.

So before you head out, download a couple of your favourite apps and turn your next pub crawl, lunch date, or Sunday stroll into a perfectly planned experience.