4 days Ago By [email protected] (Louis Walker)
Nestled among rolling fields down a quiet country lane lies a true hidden gem where the views are as satisfying as the food on your plate. Although Silcocks Farm Shop and Cafe near Tenterden isn’t the easiest place to stumble across, it’s hard not to fall for its charm, especially once you have had the chance to take on some of the mouthwatering options. Arriving in the site’s car park on the other side of Reader’s Bridge Road, I’m greeted by expansive fields on the edge of St Michaels where herds of cattle are grazing.
Crossing over the lane, I then pass through the farm’s sun-trap courtyard, which offers spectacular views of the Kent countryside. Up the steps and into the farm shop, I’m greeted by vibrant displays of fresh fruit and vegetables and take a seat in the corner of the cosy cafe. Although modest in size, what is offered is anything but small.
But for me, there’s only one star on this menu - it has to be the burger. Yet this isn’t just any average cafe fare as this hefty, towering creation made using beef raised metres from where I’m sitting. This premium offering of proper, grass-fed beef is thick, juicy and full of flavour, served simply in a fresh bun with cheese, chutney, salad and a homemade coleslaw.
It all comes together to make honest food, done properly. Chips are unnecessary here, something I soon realise as I work through the 8oz of organic Hereford beef. My eyes may have been slightly bigger than my stomach on this occasion.
After washing my colossal meal down with a bottle of chilled lemonade, my bill comes to just north of £17. A slightly premium price, yes, but the quality on offer is certainly no question here. It’s clear to see why Silcocks has become a bit of a destination purely from word-of-mouth, as weekend explorers make their way for a refreshing stop in the sun-trap courtyard or a hearty meal in the rustic cafe.
But it wasn’t always the bustling hub it is today. The farm has been in the Fenton family for more than two decades. With plenty of elbow grease, they converted the old outbuildings into a farm shop, which started out opening once or twice a week to sell their beef.
Over time, it became what it is today, with a fully-fledged butchery and cafe for punters to buy all manner of local products to support the farm. Oddly enough, the Covid-19 pandemic was a turning point for Silcocks. As supermarket shelves emptied, locals began seeking out smaller, trusted food producers.
Farm manager Matt Britton, who started as a farm hand himself 15 years ago, said: “Before we were building on the number of customers year on year, but I think with Covid, our numbers tripled. “Obviously, with the restrictions, people started walking their dogs more and that sort of thing, and they came across us.” Luke Halifax, who worked his way up from butchery assistant to now being in charge of everything meat, added: “I think since then we’ve just been trying to keep hold of customers, which has been easy because I mean the meat and produce speak for itself.
“A lot of people found us in Covid, and we’ll just try to maintain that consistent product that keeps them coming back.” Beyond my visits for their delightful grub, whether in the cafe or farm shop, I must say the setting truly sets this place apart. Footpaths loop around the farmland, and the shop even features a screen displaying drone footage of the very animals whose meat fills the counter.
You won’t find a massive advertising campaign or slick social media presence here. The farm relies largely on word-of-mouth and repeat customers, with its menu encompassing traditional breakfast staples, home-cooked classics, a selection of toasties and an assortment of baked goods. There are no plans to franchise, expand, or upscale.
The team here are more focused on keeping things consistent and self-sufficient. And that’s exactly what makes Silcocks so special. It’s a true hidden gem, tucked away in the Kent countryside.
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