‘Timely’ might be considered an ironic, even a little perverse word by which to introduce any trip to a farm café only around 30 minutes away and on the outskirts of Needham Market. I don’t know how long the café has been there but we’ve lived here for nigh on thirty years and this was the first time we’ve put in an appearance, which is all down to us and is our loss.
The farm is a not so secret gem hidden in the Suffolk countryside, with an award-winning farm shop bursting with local, seasonal & artisan produce, including its own butchery, and deli counter, and their very own multi-award winning ice cream (too cold to try, unfortunately*). The Courtyard Café, the primary reason for our visit, did not disappoint and is situated in a converted oak-framed barn, where they use the finest seasonal & local produce – including meat from the butchery – to create delicious meals, and a fabulous range of cakes. Particular shout out from both of us for the quality of the food (plus a sneaky Bailey’s coffee), which certainly indicated a return is on the cards so we can indulge in one of the many other delicious items on the menu.
We also managed to spend a little in the craft shops and the farm shop itself (particularly fine and locally roasted coffee was a lovely find). As we get older we enjoy the simple pleasures don’t you know. 🦻
* I mean the weather not the ice cream – anything else would be just plain stupid. 🫥