A great day out

Thanks to the Artisan Food online magazine http://content.yudu.com/Library/A1n9uq/Artisanfood/resources/4.htm I had a great day out today. Me and mrs Mart visited the Little Salkeld Watermill in Cumbria, UK http://www.organicmill.co.uk/

We had the full guided tour of the mill by the resident miller Rob, who was most enthusiastic and knowledgable. The mill is in full working order so we were able to see each step of the flour making process. We called in at the tea room and were very impressed by the friendliness of the staff who served us with the best tasting flapjack we have ever had. I bought several bags of flour; wholewheat, Granarius malted and Miller's Magic. I need some good recipes to get the best out of these flours now [hint, hint}.

After this we went into Kendal in Cumbria and visited The Staff Of Life artisan bakery http://www.artisanbreadmakers.co.uk/ where I had a great conversation about all things bread related. Sadly the sourdough loaves had sold out, a very busy day today, said Simon Thomas the owner. I bought his walnut and raisin loaf instead. He gave me his card and advised me to reserve loaves in advance to be picked up later if I can't get there before 11am.

On the way home we called in at Low Sizergh Barn  http://www.lowsizerghbarn.co.uk/ for a few organic veggies and some butter; apparently I'm going to be making flapjack this week :-D

All of these are worth a visit for discerning foodies if you ever find yourselves in the English Lake District.

Martyn