A "lovely" farm shop and cafe just half an hour from Bristol city centre could be crowned the region's best. Newton Farm Shop, in the pretty village of Newton St Loe near Bath, has been shortlisted in the Muddy Stilettos Awards 2024.
It is in the running for best farm shop or deli in the Dorset, Somerset and Bristol area, competing against four others - two of which are also within an hour's drive of the Bristol ring road. TEALS at South Cadbury and Durslade Farm Shop at Bruton are also shortlisted, based on the first round of nominations from customers and readers.
People can now vote for their favourite ahead until April 18, with the winners set to be announced on May 2. Lifestyle magazine Muddy Stilettos says there are 1,995 finalists in 28 counties, across 21 categories including best destination pub, best cafe and best family attraction.
Read more: Bakery set to reopen in new location
Read more:New mini-golf venue to open in Bristol's Cabot Circus
It would not be the first award for Newton Farm Shop if it comes out on top, as it won the 'small farm shop' category of the Farm Retail Association Awards back in 2022. In an Instagram post this week, the team there said they were "thrilled" to be shortlisted, adding: "Thanks to all our amazing customers for your support so far."
The farm is home to cattle, sheep and pigs but also pulls in visitors with its farm shop and cafe. Fresh bread and pastries, cheeses, artisan ciders, fresh produce and rows of jams, honeys and chutneys are among the items available to buy in the shop while the cafe menu includes cooked breakfasts, pancakes, lunches, afternoon tea and Sunday roasts.
Among its most famous visitors recently is none other than King Charles III, or Prince Charles as he was back in 2020 when he stopped by. He took a look at the farm buildings built by the Duchy of Cornwall in 2012 to replace the old farm buildings, and the trees that had been planted as part of a project called the Higher Level Stewardship.
The most recent visitor to leave a TripAdvisor review wrote just this week: "Lovely! Can’t fault it. Everything felt clean and well organised. Friendly staff , amazing food. No wonder it was busy! Glad I booked."
Another reviewer, who also left feedback just a few days ago, hailed it a "rustic gem". They advised they had no phone signal and that it can get busy at peak times, but added: "I drop in to the farm for breakfast on frequently, we enjoy its community feel, local produce and friendly staff...It does get busy at popular times and some of the seating can now be reserved in advance."
