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Foodies For Thought : What are you doing when lockdown eases?

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TrendLife talks with local Three Counties foodies about life after lockdown

With a number of our favourite eateries across Beds, Bucks & Herts getting ready to open their doors (and gardens) next week, TrendLife have spoken with six of our favourite foodies to find out where they plan to visit and what they plan to do as lockdown eases across the Three Counties.

In our first of two features, we speak to local foodies Chris of @meat_with_beer, Rachel of @bucksfood and Nadia of @MyRudeFood.

@meat_with_beer

Meet With Beer - Foodies For Thought :: What are you doing when lockdown eases?

How has lockdown been for you?

Honestly I can’t complain. No one has had it easy, but I’ve got a job, I’ve not been furloughed, work’s been pretty busy, and family and friends are all safe and well.

Food and drink are social activities for me though and I love nothing more than going out with friends for drinks or to try somewhere new to eat. It’s my passion and before COVID it is what I would be doing most weekends. Obviously lockdown changed that, so instead I’ve cooked more, used some of the money saved by not commuting to upgrade my BBQ, and tried some of the great meal kits that are around now. Those really helped bring a flavour normality home.

Don’t get me wrong, it’s not the same but it can be fun. I’ve also tried to check out more local businesses, meaning I have come across some great places across Herts I didn’t know about before. That’s as well as supporting local places I love and want to still be there after lockdown. So generally I’ve tried to make the most of it.

Hertfordshire lockdown highlights for me have included: cheese from the Little Deli (Hitchin), beers from Beer Shop (Hitchin & St Albans), wine from Wee Vinoteca and Hedley Wright (both Hitchin), breakfast baps from The Bull (at Gosmore) and The Groundworks (Hitchin), meat from Chapman’s butchers (Baldock), plant based delights from Chia (Hitchin) and Vutie Beets (Letchworth) and desserts from Pudding Stop (St Albans) and Neighbourhood Bakes (Hitchin).

Hitchin has had some awesome hot food places open during lockdown too, like Cawsburger, Chicken George Jr and Major Crusts.

What is going to be the first drink you order at the bar?

First will be a draft beer at the Kite in April, but I’m also looking forward to sangrias at Los Reyes, wine flights at Wee Vinoteca and some IPAs at Beer Shop in May.

Where have you missed visiting the most during the lockdown?

Los Reyes and Beer Shop in Hitchin both get my top vote.

Where is the first place you plan to visit when the restrictions are lifted?

Not everywhere is opening in April, but if those that are I am looking forward to having a few beers and some food at the Kite at the Red Hart in Hitchin. I’ve got a table booked at Los Reyes in May too.


TrendLife talks with local Three Counties foodies about life after lockdown
myrudefood

How has lockdown been for you?

It’s a weird one for me, I have been living with chronic illness (Complex Regional Pain Syndrome & Adenomyosis) since 2001. Lessons of acceptance and gratitude that had already become part of my tool kit, have helped so much during lockdown. I have also improved my Skype skills, texted more and generally communicated more regularly with friends old and new.

I also attended a few distance learning courses & a couple of online seminars, which on all likely-hood I wouldn’t have done in ‘normal’ circumstances. Like many others home cooks I also grew and nurtured a “Mother” (sour dough starter) I lovingly called Birtha. Using Birtha I mastered sourdough bread making fairly successfully.

I made more banana bread and cookies than was strictly necessary. I don’t want to make light of the situation, but I am aware I was better prepared than a lot of people. The general sense of appreciating the little things, the joys that can be found in nature and music was already part of my general outlook.

Where have you missed visiting the most during the lockdown?

It’s been a mixed bag, obviously I have missed my loved ones enormously. I’ve missed going out to restaurants , pubs, shopping, just the feeling of freedom that we used to take for granted. But truly, I just feel incredibly lucky that I wasn’t directly impacted by Covid-19 and was merely inconvenienced by Lockdown.

Where is the first place you plan to visit when the restrictions are lifted?

Really looking forward to a meal at the Alford Arms in Frithsden and my sister has already got us a table booked at Prime in Chandlers Cross

What is going to be the first drink you order at the bar?

Hoping that I’ll have a fruity Pimms in a pub garden on a sunny spring afternoon.


@bucksfoodie

BucksFoodie : TrendLife talks with local Three Counties foodies about life after lockdown

How has lockdown been for you?

This latest lockdown has been hard, I think with the cold weather and the shorter days it’s been difficult for a lot of people.

I’ve been lucky that I’ve been able to work full-time ( & not just working from home) as it’s meant I’m out and about & can actually finance my #TakeawayTuesday that I started at the beginning of this year! I’ve tried to spend the money that I would’ve done at restaurants on food stalls & takeaways – supporting small, local businesses where I can.

I have enjoyed the odd day working from home – it’s meant I’ve had additional time to create content & experiment. I’ve LOVED the TikTok trends that have hit the foodie community. What better way to get people into cooking! I’ve definitely tried my hand at a few – the baked feta pasta is eaten at least twice a month in our house!

I think I’ve also found a lot more time to talk to fellow bloggers & businesses. I’ve made some truly wonderful friends like the lovely Fliss from @berkshirecollective_ but it’s all been virtual! I can’t wait to meet her & others in person! It’s a funny old thing Instagram, but I’m so grateful for the people it’s brought into my life & the relationships I’ve been able to establish with businesses, even if we’ve not seen each other face to face… yet! I won’t lie though – I’ll be glad to see the end of zoom!

What is going to be the first drink you order at the bar?

Well – definitely a STRONG cosmopolitan! I’ve missed cocktails, I just cannot seem to make good enough one’s at home. Or a G & T, hopefully with a local Gin, Bucks is bursting with amazing Gin distillers!

Where have you missed visiting the most during the lockdown?

I’ve definitely missed bars! Especially places like The Snug & Bar Botanic in High Wycombe. As well as some of my local coffee shops that haven’t been able to open at all for takeaways. That being said, I love a coffee shop in general and it’s been hard to get that ‘experience’ when you’re just picking up a takeaway coffee.

I kept my love for some restaurants alive by ordering takeaways from them – I loved the Lata Lata at Home takeaway, it was a delight to experience the brilliance of their food at home – but I’m very excited to get back to their gorgeous location. I can’t wait to sit in a restaurant, and get that buzz & excitement of reading a menu, placing your order and eagerly waiting for its arrival.

Where is the first place you plan to visit when the restrictions are lifted?

Probably my local pub – The George & Dragon in West Wycombe they’re a fantastic team and they deserve all the support possible. I’m also hoping to go to The Full Moon Pub in Little Kingshill, Lata Lata in High Wycombe and Pluma in Amersham. I’m going to stick to independents as much as I can. Besides actual venues I’d love to go to more food markets, and visit more food stalls.

Foodies For Thought : What are you doing when lockdown eases?

If you are a foodie from Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire or Hertfordshire, get in touch as we would like to hear from you. We will be working with eateries in the Three Counties this summer and have a number of opportunities for foodies and food bloggers.

Never full or satisfied, I am always willing to try new things and visit new places. Lover of food and all things FAST - Not necessarily fast food. If I am not in the office, you can find me near a track or under a car. I also work with great people in TrendLife's Editorial team.

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Brakspear Expands Estate with Purchase of Historic Pub in Maulden

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Henley-based WH Brakspear & Sons is thrilled to announce the purchase of The George, a charming 16th-century Grade II listed inn in the heart of Maulden.

Henley-based, WH Brakspear & Sons, is delighted to announce that it is currently purchasing the freehold interest in The George Public House, a beautiful, 16th century, Grade II listed inn located in centre of the idyllic Bedfordshire village of Maulden.

The George was taken over by Maulden villagers, Julian and Emma Smith, in 2011. The couple bought and completely refurbished the then derelict pub whilst sensitively renovating its many original architectural features using local contractors, Kingshall Estates UK Ltd.

Brakspear Expands Estate with Purchase of Historic Pub in Maulden

 

Departing owner, Emma Smith says,” The pub was a wreck when we bought it, but we replaced everything from the plumbing, electrics and the layout, built a new carpark and created a two-bed flat for a tenant. We then commissioned talented Birmingham-based, pub interior designers, Spencer Swinden, to create contemporary and cosy spaces to drink, eat and stay to a high spec.”

Now a thriving community hub, The George has a light and airy public bar, restaurant with 120 covers, a private function room seating 18-24 and seven, boutique-style, en-suite guest rooms housed in cottage style accommodation overlooking its landscaped beer garden with an attractive dining terrace, and currently has planning permission to build five additional bedrooms.

Tom Davies, Brakspear CEO commented, “We are delighted to announce the acquisition of The George at Maulden. It will be a fantastic addition to our estate. We don’t have many pubs in Bedfordshire, so we are really excited to be there, especially with the proposed Universal Studios development so close by.”

Having run the pub since 2016, Julian and Emma are leaving the pub in really good shape. “It’s been an amazing journey, particularly as we had no previous experience in hospitality when we started out.” says Emma. “We’ve absolutely loved every minute of our time at The George, but Julian and I are now ready to move on to our next adventure, which we’re currently deciding on. “The tenants will just be able to just jump straight in and run it with a wonderful, enthusiastic team of 40 staff ready to support them,” says Emma Smith.

Brakspear Expands Estate with Purchase of Historic Pub in Maulden

“Our vision is to retain The George as a community hub whilst also offering a wonderful place to relax, stay and dine if visiting from further afield,” says Brakspear’s Business Development director, Gerard Winder. “Brakspear is now looking for a new tenant with experience of the area and who can fit in to a local pub with a loyal following and a strong background in food and beverage to be able to operate a quality informal operation on a tenancy agreement”.

Brakspear Expands Estate with Purchase of Historic Pub in Maulden

The George lies eight miles south of Bedford and 13 miles from Luton. The market town of Ampthill is 2 miles away. Surrounded by the ancient Maulden Wood and halfway along the Greensand Ridge Walk, the area is a popular tourist destination with Centre Parcs, Woburn Safari Park, Woburn Abbey Deer Park and Woburn Golf Club close by. The proposed Universal Studios site is three miles away.  The nearest train station is Flitwick with direct mainline services to London St Pancras.

The George Inn, 6 George St, Maulden, Bedford MK45 2DF, https://www.thegeorgemaulden.com

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Discover Unity Place: Milton Keynes’ Premier Destination is Fully Open

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Discover Unity Place: Milton Keynes’ Premier Destination for Food, Work, and Play

Milton Keynes’ much-anticipated landmark visitor destination, Unity Place, has now opened all of its remaining facilities and is officially fully open. Located directly opposite MK Station Square, Unity Place is more than just a venue; it’s a vibrant community hub set to redefine the urban experience in the heart of the city.

A Culinary Haven: Diverse Dining Options Under One Roof

Unity Place offers an unparalleled shopping and dining experience. At the heart of this destination is the Urban Food Market, featuring an eclectic mix of street food vendors that cater to every palate. Here, you can indulge in rustic Italian delights at Raffaele Pizza, savor Taiwanese rice boxes and bao buns from Bian Dang, or enjoy the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine at Cantina Carnitas. For those seeking an elevated dining experience, Dipna Anand’s Kitchen & Bar is a must-visit. Celebrity chef Dipna Anand brings authentic Punjabi and South Indian cuisine to your table, with signature dishes such as tandoori lamb chops, paneer tikka, and lamb shish.

Dipna Kitchen & Bar - Food

Convenience Meets Quality: Shopping Essentials at Unity Place

Unity Place isn’t just about food. It’s designed to cater to all your needs under one roof. The Corner Store offers everyday essentials, while Baker’s Room tempts with freshly made bread, pastries, cakes, and coffee. Even grooming is covered, thanks to the high-end barbershop ROK, perfect for a stylish fresh trim.

Work and Play at Unity Place: The Ideal Balance

For those blending work and leisure, Unity Place provides an innovative solution. Partnering with co-working provider x+why, it offers flexible working spaces perfect for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and remote workers. The ground floor houses the public Santander Work Café, which includes co-working desks, bookable meeting rooms, and a branch for everyday banking needs. With over 60,000 sq. ft. of contemporary office space, Unity Place ensures a productive environment with breakout spaces, private offices, enterprise suites, and mission rooms.

Sip and Savor at Unity Place: A Destination for Drinks

Unity Place is also a haven for those who enjoy a good drink. The rooftop bar, Unity Sky Lounge, offers stunning panoramic views of the city alongside a fantastic selection of food and beverages. Whether you’re winding down after a long day or starting your evening, this is the perfect spot to relax. Additionally, Dipna Anand’s bar provides a cozy atmosphere for a pre-dinner cocktail or mocktail, while the fully stocked Unity Bar boasts an extensive drinks list to satisfy any preference.

Discover Unity Place: Milton Keynes’ Premier Destination for Food, Work, and Play

Why Visit Unity Place?

Unity Place is more than just a visitor destination; it’s an experience. Here are a few reasons why you should make it your next stop:

  1. Variety: With a wide range of dining options, there’s something for everyone.
  2. Convenience: Everything you need, from food to shopping to workspaces, is available under one roof.
  3. Community: It’s a vibrant hub that fosters community and connection.
  4. Quality: High-end amenities ensure a premium experience.
  5. Scenery: Enjoy breathtaking views from the rooftop bar.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Unity Place is set to become a cornerstone of Milton Keynes. Come and experience it for yourself – the future of urban living is here.

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Father’s Day With A Twist at Hertfordshire’s Sopwell House

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Sunday Roast with Beer or Wine Flight at Sopwell House

Deciding on a great Father’s Day experience can be challenging, but this year, why not treat Dad to an escape to the Hertfordshire countryside at Sopwell House? The hotel and spa are pulling out all the stops for Dad, from a sumptuous Sunday roast with beer pairings to a savoury afternoon tea.

Sunday Roast with Beer or Wine Flight

Elevate Dad’s Sunday roast with an optional craft beer from Tring Brewery. From a punchy Raven King IPA to Tring’s smooth Tea Kettle stout, savour every bite with a carefully selected beer to match each course. For those who aren’t as keen on beer, there is also a wine flight option available.

Start as you mean to go on with Spring shaved courgettes or spicy lamb croquettes, followed by the star of the show – a roast with your choice of chicken, beef, or pork, served with fluffy roasties, seasonal vegetables, Yorkshire puddings, and lashings of gravy. End on a sweet note with a choice of summery desserts – think Strawberry bakewell tart and Raspberry crème brûlée – plus an additional cheese course for those opting for the paired menu.

Price: £42 per person for Sunday lunch (£67 per adult including drinks pairing and cheese course).

Sunday Roast with Beer or Wine Flight at Sopwell House

 

 

Father’s Day Afternoon Tea

Adding a savoury twist to the quintessentially British pastime, treat Dad to an afternoon tea with a choice of bubbles or a pint of Pale Ale to complement the experience. Expect bites including quail scotch eggs and roast beef-filled mini-Yorkshire puddings, alongside sandwiches and freshly baked scones.

There is also a selection of sweet treats including a hazelnut praline and chocolate sable, and a coconut, yuzu, and lime macaron, all served with a glass of Taittinger Champagne or a pint of Tring Pale Four beer from the award-winning brewery. A punchy, West Coast IPA style beer, the Tring Pale Four beer is as at home with meats and fish as it is paired alongside sweet treats, making it the perfect accompaniment to Afternoon Tea!

Price: £57 per adult.

Available exclusively on Sunday 16th June, make your Father’s Day one to remember at Sopwell House, with bookings now available at www.sopwellhouse.co.uk.

Top 5 Father’s Day Gift Ideas

To complement your luxurious day out at Sopwell House, here are the top 5 Father’s Day gift ideas that will surely impress any dad:

  1. Personalised Gifts
    • Engraved Wallet: A high-quality leather wallet with a personalised message or initials engraved.
    • Custom Photo Book: A photo book filled with cherished memories, perfect for sentimental dads.
  2. Tech Gadgets
    • Smart Home Devices: Smart speakers like the Amazon Echo or Google Nest Hub to help around the house.
    • Noise-Cancelling Headphones: Great for dads who enjoy music, podcasts, or need some quiet time.
  3. Experience Gifts
    • Driving Experience: A track day or driving experience with high-performance cars.
    • Cooking Class: For foodie dads, a cooking class with a professional chef can be a memorable experience.
  4. Eating Out Experience
    • Restaurant Voucher: A voucher for a meal at a top-rated restaurant or a local favourite.
    • Afternoon Tea: A classic British experience, perfect for a relaxing afternoon with a variety of teas and delicious treats.
  5. Outdoor Gear
    • Camping Equipment: High-quality tents, sleeping bags, or portable grills for adventurous dads.
    • Garden Tools: For dads who love gardening, new tools or a garden gadget like a robot lawnmower.

Make this Father’s Day unforgettable with a delightful experience at Sopwell House and a thoughtful gift from our top picks!

 

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