Tucked away in the countryside outside of town sits a working farm awash with history covered in rustic charm and home to many independent businesses, a couple of strutting peacocks, and plenty of community spirit.
If you are one of the many that still consider Blake House a hidden gem, a mysterious entity, and not a usual pit stop then I sincerely hope that this article can convert you and rectify this situation. CommunityAd had the pleasure of a chinwag with Rachael who has been has been working in the Marketing department of Blake House Craft Centre since 2005.
Blake House Craft Centre is described as “one of the region’s true hidden gems”, explain to readers who it remains hidden to what they are missing?
It is always a surprise to me when people say they have just ‘discovered’ us, as I have been shouting about this place for so long! However, we are not somewhere you tend to just be passing, so anyone new to the area and occasionally those who have lived in the area for many years, do find us and discover not just a ‘hidden gem’ for the first time but a complete ‘treasure trove’!
For locals who have yet to find us, we have the Sconch Tea Rooms, offering great quality homemade food and drinks, plus fresh local produce in the farm shop and dried foods and many other household supplies, all completely eco-friendly from our plastic free shop.
Crafters absolutely love the sewing shop, often described by visitors as an ’Aladdin’s cave’ in its own right, plus the yarn shop. We have a talented artist who creates exquisite Art Nouveau inspired designs, plus antiques, up-cycled furniture, dolls houses & miniatures, dancewear and gifts, a gorgeous boutique and more.
Why is it so important that as a community we make 2022 the year of shopping local?
Shopping local is so important right now, it’s better for the community, the environment and your mental health too, we should all get out and discover what’s on the doorstep! Where else can you go to buy your locally produced goods and have a friendly chat about the weather with the owner while you’re here?
It’s a traditional shopping feel in a modern world, as you can also order online with a number of the shops too! The centre is completely made up of small independent business owners, who have struggled through the last two years and need the local community to use them on a regular basis to support them, otherwise they simply won’t be here in the future!
There’s such a variety of local producers and independent businesses to enjoy as well isn’t there?
Yes, a number of which I’ve already mentioned, but there are also some great service providers too, such as a nail and hair salon, dog grooming, a brilliant cycle repairs and servicing shop, therapy centre, tattoos and the newest offering is Armadillo Customs for anyone who loves motorbikes!
There’s plenty to see and shop at Blake House Craft Centre, there’s even a fabulous 9 hole Minigolf course, which will reopen with the much wanted return of the sunshine and warmth that spring represents. Plus there’s the cake craft groups that meet regularly, but words only do so much you’ve got to get down there to see it for yourself.