Insider’s Guide to Daylesford Organic Farm

Daylesford Farm isn’t just an organic farm, it’s a delightful escape into the Cotswolds countryside. Rolling hills, sheep grazing contentedly, and a quaint village buzzing with artisan energy. My recent trip was a breath of fresh air, and I’m eager to share my experience with you, along with tips for your own visit.

Daylesford’s History

Daylesford Farm’s story is one of passion, sustainability, and a love for fresh, delicious food. It unfolds like a delicious chapter in the Cotswolds countryside, beginning in the 1980s with Lady Carole Bamford, an ardent advocate for organic farming and healthy living.

Before transforming into the flourishing haven it is today, Daylesford was a conventional Cotswolds farm. However, Lady Bamford, deeply concerned about the impact of chemical agriculture on health and the environment, embarked on a vision for change. In 1984, she began converting the family’s farms in Staffordshire and Gloucestershire to organic farming practices.

This wasn’t just a practical shift; it was a philosophy deeply rooted in Lady Bamford’s belief in nurturing the land, respecting nature, and producing the highest quality, most flavorful food possible.

As the organic bounty flourished, Lady Bamford recognized the need to connect these fresh, seasonal ingredients directly with consumers. In 2002, the first Daylesford Farmshop opened its doors on the Daylesford House estate, offering an enticing haven of organic produce, artisan bread, and delicious offerings.

This wasn’t just a shop; it was a tangible expression of Lady Bamford’s passion for farm-to-table living. Customers flocked to this haven, savoring the taste of truly fresh, organic food grown with care and respect for the land.

The success of the farmshop sparked an organic evolution. Over the years, Daylesford Farm has blossomed into a vibrant community, encompassing a highly rated restaurant, charming cafes, a cookery school, a spa, and even a selection of cottages for a complete Cotswolds escape.

Today, Daylesford Farm remains a testament to Lady Bamford’s pioneering spirit and commitment to organic farming. It’s a haven where delicious food, sustainability, and community intersect, offering a taste of a better, more responsible way of living.

Best Time to Visit

Spring and summer are magical, with Daylesford bursting with life. Autumn brings cozy evenings and harvest celebrations, while winter offers a crisp, festive charm, especially in the run up to Christmas. Each season has its own unique appeal, so choose what speaks to you most.

The Farmshop

Here, you’re not just shopping, you’re experiencing the farm-to-table journey firsthand. Stroll through aisles brimming with vibrant fruits and vegetables, plucked daily from the market garden. Feast your eyes on pasture-raised meat, gleaming with quality and care. Savor the crusty perfection of artisan bread, still warm from the bakery. And don’t miss the award-winning cheeses, crafted with generations of expertise in the Daylesford creamery.

But Daylesford Farmshop isn’t just about the raw ingredients. It’s a celebration of culinary convenience and indulgence. Treat yourself to delectable nibbles from the delicatessen counter, perfect for impromptu picnics or cozy evenings in. Explore the Wine Stall, where organic and biodynamic wines await to complement your meal. And for busy weeknights, stock up on freshly prepared meals, ready to heat and savor in the comfort of your own home.

Cookery School

The cookery school offers a diverse range of courses, catering to all skill levels and interests. Whether you’re a seasoned chef looking to hone your craft or a complete beginner eager to whip up something delicious, there’s a course for you.

The Trough Café

Star-studded and championing the farm’s seasonal bounty, The Trough Café is where refined, farm-to-table magic happens. Think airy, light-filled spaces adorned with greenery, overlooking the serene courtyard. Here, the menu changes with the seasons, showcasing the freshest ingredients in meticulously crafted dishes. Think asparagus risotto in spring, succulent roast lamb in winter, and vibrant salads bursting with summer’s bounty. It’s a celebration of local, organic produce, prepared with artistry and an eye for detail.

The Old Spot Restaurant

Craving rustic charm and wood-fired goodness? The Old Spot Restaurant is your calling. Housed in a converted stone barn, the atmosphere is warm and inviting, with exposed brick walls and crackling fireplaces. The menu leans towards seasonal sharing plates and pizzas, perfect for a relaxed yet convivial meal. Picture wood-fired roasted vegetables bathed in olive oil, plump chargrilled octopus with smoky paprika, and pizzas adorned with the farm’s finest cheeses and seasonal toppings. It’s a laid-back culinary adventure, ideal for lingering lunches or lively dinners with friends.

The Legbar

Sometimes, all you need is a light bite, a refreshing drink, and a buzzy atmosphere. Enter The Legbar, your go-to spot for coffee, cocktails, and small plates. Think sleek, contemporary interiors with pops of color, opening up to a charming terrace. The menu is a playful mix of sweet and savory – think ricotta and honey bruschetta, avocado and smoked salmon on sourdough, and decadent chocolate brownies to satisfy your sweet tooth. It’s perfect for a quick refuel between shopping sprees at the farmshop or a casual catch-up with friends.

Planning your visit

Check the website: Before you embark, browse the Daylesford Farm website for opening hours, seasonal events, and special offers.
Choose your timing: Visit on a sunny day to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy outdoor spaces. Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends, especially during peak season.
Pack your basket: Bring your own reusable bags or containers to fill up at the zero-waste pantry and avoid unnecessary packaging.

Savoring the experience

Indulge in the senses: Breathe in the fresh air, admire the vibrant produce, and let the delicious aromas guide your culinary exploration.
Be adventurous: Try new seasonal produce you might not find elsewhere, and don’t be afraid to ask the friendly staff for recommendations.
Go beyond the essentials: Explore the delicatessen counter for gourmet treats, the wine stall for organic and biodynamic finds, and the ready-made section for convenient meal solutions.
Treat yourself: Pick up a freshly baked loaf of bread, a decadent pastry, or a vibrant salad for a picnic in the rolling hills.

Making the most of it

Book a restaurant table: Plan ahead and reserve a table at one of Daylesford’s acclaimed restaurants, like The Trough Café or The Old Spot, for a memorable dining experience.
Join a workshop or course: Learn new skills with the farm’s cookery school offerings, ranging from bread baking to cheesemaking.
Unwind at the spa: Treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa treatment at the Bamford Haybarn Spa Retreat for a complete wellness escape.
Explore the Cotswolds: Make Daylesford Farm a base for exploring the charming villages and picturesque countryside of the Cotswolds.

Bonus Tip: Look out for Daylesford’s “Best of the Farm” range, highlighting their own exceptional produce grown and made on the farm.

Whilst in the area – why also visit the beautiful Stow-on-the-Wold, with its great shopping, antiques shops and local bourtiques.

With these tips in your basket, you’re ready for a delightful and enriching visit to Daylesford Farmshop. Happy exploring!