In early September a group of ten SFNY members and friends spent a wonderful Sunday afternoon in Raydale, right in the centre of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Nestled above stunning Semer Water is the little hamlet of Stalling Busk, home to Raydale Preserves. Using traditional recipes, methods and, as far as possible, local ingredients, Derek and Lesley Kettlewell produce a truly staggering array of different preserves.
On the traditional family run Dales farm much effort is spent managing the countryside for the benefit of the environment and its wildlife. Before any tasting began we were treated to a guided walk over moorland, traditional hay-meadows, and through ancient woodland to see the spectacular waterfalls found on the farm. Derek filled us in on some of the history of the area and explained the conservation work they carry out.
Back at the Old School House, now home to a tearoom and fascinating display of old photos, we feasted on a spread of local ham, cheese and salad which provided a perfect showcase for a selection of perfect preserves (I think Aunt Lena’s Piccalilli went down particularly well!). We then had to squeeze in some of the homemade cakes before waddling out to the newly converted shop to begin the agonising process of deciding which jars to take home (I can never leave without at least one jar each of the Lemon Curd and Hellfire Plum Chutney!).
The tea-room and tasting-room are open daily May-Oct. Five different Raydale Rambles are set out on handy laminated sheets so you can help yourself to a wonderful walk. It is also usually possible to see the preserves being made.
Raydale Preserves
Schoolhouse Farm
Stalling Busk
Askrigg
Leyburn
North Yorkshire
DL8 3DH
Tel: 01969 650233 to check opening times / directions.
Sarah Phillip