Eating
Foodies For Thought : What are you doing when lockdown eases?
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
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.
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
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.
Award-winning chef Carlo Scotto unveils his most personal project yet with BEAR – a daring 14-seat chef’s table opening this July at the Crazy Bear Hotel in Beaconsfield.
Launching on Wednesday 30th July, BEAR strips back fine dining to reveal something raw, refined, and deeply expressive. Set inside an immersive open kitchen, this intimate space offers diners an unforgettable front-row seat to Scotto’s innovative culinary storytelling.
Carlo Scotto’s Next Chapter
Following the success of Amethyst in London, Scotto’s newest venture draws on his global experience in the kitchens of Gordon Ramsay, Angela Hartnett, and the Galvin Brothers. At BEAR, his signature style evolves into something even more daring and personal — a stripped-back, ingredient-led experience that feels more like a private dinner party than a restaurant.
A Seasonally Driven, Emotionally Charged Menu
The menu at BEAR showcases Scotto’s fearless approach to flavour, technique, and presentation. It’s a culinary journey that spans continents while remaining rooted in seasonal British ingredients.
Expect dishes like:
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Langoustine with Pickled Attika Kohlrabi, jalapeño & purple shiso
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Hand-laminated brioche with Carlo’s unique three-layered butter
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Moroccan-spiced duck with morels poached in aged pickled rum
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British asparagus fermented in tempeh and wild garlic jus
Two Menus, One Exclusive Table
Guests can choose between two tasting experiences:
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Carlo’s Edit – A six-course seasonal snapshot
Available Tuesday to Saturday at 6pm -
The Full Experience – An eight-course immersive journey
Available Tuesday to Saturday at 7.45pm
Both menus are available with thoughtfully selected wine pairings.
A Unique Setting at Crazy Bear Beaconsfield
Located inside the iconic Crazy Bear Hotel, BEAR benefits from a setting as distinctive as its food. The hotel itself blends 15th-century charm with modern opulence, offering a lavish escape just outside of London.
With BEAR, Beaconsfield welcomes a new era of destination dining — one that’s sure to attract serious food lovers from far and wide.
TrendLife Will Be Visiting This Summer
We’ll be visiting BEAR by Carlo Scotto later this summer to experience the menu firsthand. Keep an eye out for our full review and behind-the-scenes look at one of 2025’s most exciting new openings.
Prepare for a magical New Year’s Eve at Tewinbury’s exquisite Tythe Barn, where rustic charm meets understated luxury. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Mimram Valley in Hertfordshire, this exclusive celebration promises an evening of indulgence, joy, and unforgettable memories.
The Perfect Celebration
The festivities begin with a sparkling Champagne reception, accompanied by an array of exquisite canapés. Guests will then be treated to a carefully curated four-course meal, perfectly paired with fine wine to tantalise the taste buds. The evening continues with live entertainment, providing the ideal soundtrack to dance your way into 2025 with loved ones.
As the clock approaches midnight, toast to the New Year in the enchanting ambience of Tythe Barn, a space renowned for its blend of rustic charm and modern elegance. With its exposed wooden beams and festive decor, this venue offers an intimate yet vibrant setting for a truly memorable night.
About Tewinbury
Tewinbury is not just a venue; it is an experience. Located in the heart of the Hertfordshire countryside, this 700-acre estate provides a tranquil escape just a short journey from the hustle and bustle of London. Only 30 minutes by train from King’s Cross, Tewinbury feels a world away with its idyllic surroundings and refined country charm.
The estate is renowned for its farm-to-table dining, luxury lodges, and bespoke experiences, making it a sought-after destination for both celebrations and retreats. Tythe Barn itself is a jewel in Tewinbury’s crown, offering a beautiful setting steeped in history and brimming with character.
Whether you are a local or travelling in from further afield, Tewinbury provides the perfect backdrop for creating cherished memories this New Year’s Eve.
Event Details
- Date: 31st December 2024
- Venue: Tythe Barn, Tewinbury, Hertford Road, Welwyn, Hertfordshire, AL6 0JB
- Tickets: £165 per person (includes Champagne reception, canapés, four-course meal, wine, and entertainment)
- Time: Evening
Make Your Booking
Tickets are limited for this exclusive event, so secure your place early to avoid disappointment. Book online at tewinbury.co.uk/event/new-years-eve-at-tythe-barn or contact the team directly at 01438 717793 or reservations@tewinbury.co.uk.
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.
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.
“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”.
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
