Our garden
More than a patch of green
The story of our garden began in the early 2000s when Michael Blake, a local retiree, passionate gardener and one of the Handmade Bakery’s original supporters, saw potential in the overgrown plot beside the bakery. With his vision and dedication, he brought the garden to life, making it an integral part of the bakery’s ethos and reflecting our sustainable values.
Our garden is an ever-changing mini allotment of seasonal produce. From fragrant mint, chives, and fennel to rhubarb, courgettes and towering artichokes, the space is as decorative as it is functional. Blackcurrants, rhubarb, courgettes and herbs make their way onto our café menu and keep our focus on seasonal dishes.
The garden’s rich colours, textures, aromas and seasonal changes create an inviting atmosphere that compliments the outside cafe seating area. Planting includes traditional herbs like sweet cicely and sorrel, as well as unusual edibles like callaloo. Michael is always experimenting with different planting, to make the most of the space and the growing conditions.
Our outside cafe space next to the garden provides a great seat to watch the world go by and enables customers with dogs to enjoy a cafe lunch or a coffee. With the canal just a few yards away, it’s always interesting to see the narrow boats moored up and the ducks paddling by.
