Change of Owner's at Wayside Farm Shop
The future of the Wayside Farm Shop looks set to continue to grow from strength to strength with a recent change of ownership. The Farm Shop and Tearoom in Wickhamford has been passed down a generation from Elspeth Robertson to her nephew Tom Cumberland and his wife Becky.
During Elspeth's reign Wayside was renowned for its home-made ethos and stocking of fresh local produce, a quality that isn't lost on Tom and Becky as they continue to carry on these traditions.
Since its reopening on Jan 5th of this year, you'd be forgiven for not immediately realising there were new owners at the helm. The changes the couple have made so far have been little more than subtle tweaks, a testament to the good job Elspeth has done in running the business since it began 17 years ago. As Tom is keen to point out, "It is important to maintain the goodwill of the regulars, those who have relied on Wayside over the years".
The Farm Shop has become iconic in its own right to the local people. Many have been coming for years for the wide range of fresh produce and groceries on offer, which have either been made at Wayside, grown or sourced locally. These include home-made jams, chutneys, pies, bread, quiches, cakes and seasonal fruit to name but a few. The Farm Shop also has an alcohol licence so you'll be able to taste some of the best local ales the Cotswolds has to offer.
Not only does the Farm Shop stock local produce and groceries to take away, but you can also visit Wayside to enjoy a delicious breakfast and snacks in their spacious Tearoom. Tom and Becky have added to the offering by introducing a seasonal two course Sunday Roast, which will be available from September.
Since the takeover, Tom has also brought his own sausage brand, Tom Sausage, to Wayside which he makes fresh every Wednesday and Friday. The pair have also introduced a loose cheese counter in the shop. If that's not enough, they are in the process of creating an outdoor seating area, with a smoke BBQ and pizza oven that should be complete by mid June - fittingly in time for summer!
It's clear the Cumberland's have focused their attention on creating a children friendly atmosphere at Wayside, which can be seen by their 3 children who are often seen playing in the shop. Becky explains, "We have made a play area with a chalk wall and toys for children as well as a children's menu. We very much want to make it welcoming for families". So if you're planning to take the family out this summer, or you'd like to taste the delights of the Cotswolds, look no further than Wayside Farm Shop.
Opening times and more information of the seasonal produce available can be found by visiting www.waysidefarmshop.co.uk.
