Northern Farm First For ‘taste Of England’ Award

Low Sizergh Barn Farm Shop in Kendal was praised for its extensive selection of locally sourced produce, home-grown organic vegetables and excellent customer service. As a working dairy farm, the business produces its own organic milk, eggs, ice-cream and award-winning cheese. It also integrates a tea room, craft gallery and farm trail.

The accolade, which is given to businesses providing an outstanding eating and drinking experience, has largely been given to restaurants and bistros in the past. “This award means a great deal to everyone involved in our business as it is national recognition of the work we are all so passionate about - reconnecting people with food, farming and the countryside,” said Alison Park, director of Low Sizergh Barn.

“As a working farm, we’re the beating heart of a vibrant rural economy. In a way, this award is also testament to the massive progress that has been made in farm retailing in recent years, as seasonality, provenance and locality continue to grow in importance to food consumers,” she added.

The gold award went to The Bildeston Crown, a public house, restaurant and hotel in Suffolk.

The annual ceremony, which is in its 21st year, was held at Brighton Museum, Dome and Corn Exchange on 23rd April.