Pears and chocolate ... what a perfect combination. Pears are in abundance early autumn and store so well for the colder months.

We have a menu of herb infused waters and tisanes in The Greenhouse, the new spa reception, all of which are delicious and easy to make. While the weather is hot, it is doubly important to remain hydrated and if you flavour your water with fresh herbs and fruit you are creating your own ‘vitamin water’ without any artificial ingredients.

Southrop Manor Farm House was built in 1623, and its Tithe Barn would have been built around this time too.

As the days lengthen and thoughts of slowing down in the summer sun take hold, the desire to seek out water is instinctive.

We came across designer Julian Sainsbury's ceramic workshop when searching for beautiful crockery for Thyme's Ox Barn restaurant.

I recall one fine morning, several years ago, in the South of France, when I woke up with a light fuzziness to find myself on the patio of a charming Chateau.