When guests book a room in advance they are sent a business card, direction sheet and asked if they would like a complimentary Cream Tea on arrival. I’ve found that in addition to a warm welcome and being put at ease instantly, a Cream Tea breaks the ice well and sets the scene for a comfortable and cosy stay………..even if it does ruin the daily calorie count for those watching their diet!! A hot Devon locally sourced scone with home made damson plum jam and lashings of clotted cream does hit the spot for the intrepid traveller and is a real treat for most.

At 1800 I open the bar……….not a counter as such like Faulty Towers but a simple wine bottle or two selected from my reasonably extensive collection stashed in the downstairs loo, a few old glasses and some nibbles……again a complimentary service offered to those with time for a glass gathered round the kitchen island before they head off for dinner……….the system is always welcome, great fun and kicks the evening off to a good start.

If guests aren’t too late back and are up for a dram as a night cap then again I’m happy to oblige…………I appreciate good company especially with a glass of whisky and a convivial atmosphere gathered round the wood burner in the drawing room usually. Politics, religion and sex are perfectly acceptable topics to discuss and to share an opinion at any time is okay in my view, and being neither PC nor fussy there are no exceptions to this openness and encouragement for debate and shared interests. I like nothing more than putting the world right with a like minded kindred spirit…….especially with a glass in hand!!

Ian

Ian Corner

Orchard Barn B&B