What with its reputation as a fabulous foodie institution, you’ve probably already come across Daylesford Organic. That said, the central hub of the operation, Daylesford Organic Farm in Kingham, certainly deserves a mention as it really is rather special. Nestled at the centre of a 1500 acre agricultural estate, Daylesford has all the ingredients for a lovely day out with a wonderful café, superb selection of beautifully appointed garden, homeware and clothing shops and a truly fabulous spa.

Provenance lies at the heart of the operation with everything on sale organic, seasonal and sustainable through and through. It’s a fantastic one-stop-shop for all your daily requirements (and more!), but if that’s not enough, their Farm and Cookery Schools run a wide range of brilliant educational courses for all ages and abilities in everything from artisan bread making or butchery to the rather wonderful ‘Introduction to Small Holding.’

As you would expect, Daylesford Organic Farm is Soil Association accredited, it is also the centre for Slow Food in the Cotswolds. As such, a trip here really does offer a full field to fork education – take a potter around the farm and you will see firsthand the methods used to preserve the organic way of life. I love just seeing how the seasonal fruit and vegetables are presented, cheese stored and meat hung.

However, what I find so special about this place is that even popping in for a coffee and a biscuit will result in you learning so much, just by osmosis! I would urge everyone, aged 3 – 93 to visit this very special place. The way you think about the provenance, sourcing, growing and rearing of food will never be quite the same again.

TiYK Top Tip! The cafe does not take reservations so go midweek to bag the best table and avoid the crowds!

Photo courtesy of gerrald malcolm on Flickr