I had to laugh this morning. My husband works for a (the) major Communications/Telcomms provider in the UK who shall remain nameless! He read a directive out to me this morning concerning, amongst other things, 'the unsuitability of flip flops as workplace footwear' and 'guidance on how to use your handbrake..'! It must be comforting to all you end users out there to know that, despite any issues you may have with your phones or computers, that these burning issues are being dealt with!!!
Anyway. On to the delights of my village!
| http://www.theappletreegiftshop.co.uk/ |
Ockbrook. A picturesque ancient village situated some 5 miles to the East of Derby, steeped in history. Boasting lovely local walks, pretty architecture of historical interest and importance and one of only three remaining Moravian Settlements in the UK, Ockbrook is most definitely a place to circle on your map!
Another great reason to drive this way is to sample the delights of The Apple Tree Gift Shop and Tea House. Situated in the centre of the village, The Apple Tree is a veritable feast of goodies – beautiful, unique gifts, cards, refreshments and a choice of mouth-watering cakes in very welcoming surroundings.
The Apple Tree (on moving to Ockbrook, Lucy says she had never seen so many apple trees in just about every garden as is found in this village…hence the name!) is owned and run by a local lady, Lucy Cassar. Lucy’s passion for all things creative, fashion and interiors as well as a background in Sales and Marketing were what inspired her to start her own business. With 2 young children and a hard working husband with his own business, Lucy felt strongly that she wanted to focus some of her energy into growing her own business and glad we are that she did!
The ethos behind The Apple Tree is very much supporting local craftsmen and women wherever possible. Lucy works hard sourcing unique pieces whether that is locally sourced, handmade candles or beautiful pieces of (one off) handmade jewellery alongside the more well-known suppliers of home ware such as East of India. The attention to detail in sourcing stock is evident from the moment you walk through the door.
My eyes were drawn (and I may have to direct my husband’s eyes…) to the jewellery case. Beautiful pieces, all hand made by Derbyshire jewellers – Anney Grace, Kate Rodgers, Kate Hamilton-Hunter and my choice (hubby!), exquisite silver jewellery by Sarah Stevens of Mickleover made from vintage silver tea spoons, coffee stirrers etc. I love the idea that each
piece probably has a story behind it. Priced between £36 and £44 any of these pieces would make the most thoughtful, perfect gift, knowing that each one is unique.
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| Sarah Stevens jewellery |
And I haven’t even started on the cakes yet!
I like the fact that the coffee and cake eating tables are in the heart of the shop. There isn’t that awkwardness you sometimes feel when entering an interiors/gift shop and there are only one or two other people in there, plus the assistant/owner watching you like a hawk to see if your browsing converts into an actual purchase! There is something very comforting and instantly relaxing about walking into a shop already bustling with people sitting drinking tea, eating cake and chatting. Another big tick in the box!
So, my urge to you is to make a beeline to the Apple Tree in Ockbrook. If you don’t live near enough, have a look at the website. Though there is no online purchasing facility at present (coming soon!) if you are on the hunt for something special or want to know if something is stocked or you would like something stocked or you need some gift ideas then Lucy is more than happy to take your call.
Contact details
The Apple Tree Gift Shop and Tea House
6 Flood Street
Ockbrook
Derbyshire
DE72 3RF
Tel: 01332 987001
Looks like a lovely place to live Lottie. . great store too.
ReplyDeleteJoanne
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ReplyDeleteApple trees & Magnolia trees
I visited The Apple Tree Gift Shop and Tearoom this Saturday (30/08/14) with one of my friends. I had been meaning to go for some time after recommendations from friends and I wasn't disappointed, we sat down for lunch and both had Panini's which is accompanied with salad and crisps, it was all lovely and freshly made. The drinks are also lovely I had a hot chocolate which came is a very cute glass jar with cream and marshmallows. The shop itself is very quant and full of cute items to treat yourself with I had to hold myself back, all the items are really high quality I think that why it stands out compared to other gift shops. They also make all there own cakes daily to either eat in or take out which is helpful if your on the move or too full after lunch for a desert straight after. I would fully recommend Apple Tree it well worth a trip!
ReplyDeleteGlad you liked it, Jessica. I've moved out of the area and we really miss popping in for a hot choc and a cake and the odd purchase or two! It's also a great little place to visit in the run up to (dare I mention it...) Christmas. I know Lucy (owner) will love to hear such nice feedback so I will pass your comments on.
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