Historic Old Bakery Reopens as Village Shop and Craft Hub in Branscombe

The historic Old Bakery in Branscombe has reopened as a vibrant village shop and craft hub, offering light refreshments from Wednesday to Saturday, 10am to 4pm.

This new venture is a partnership between the National Trust, which owns the property, and local resident Emily Gladstone, whose house overlooks the building.

Nestled in the heart of the village, the Old Bakery now provides locals and visitors the chance to enjoy cakes, soups, hot drinks, and cream teas in its beautifully maintained gardens or at picnic tables in the adjacent orchard.

A vital piece of local history, the Old Bakery was once the last traditional working bakery in Devon, closing in 1987 after years of operation by the Collier brothers. Today, the National Trust has preserved its original bread oven and proving trough, giving visitors a taste of its heritage. Emily Gladstone, who leads the venture, has a strong personal connection to the site.

“The Old Bakery has always been close to my heart – I first worked here in the café 16 years ago,” said Emily. “To now be able to breathe new life into it and create a space for the community and visitors to enjoy is a real joy.”

Jonathan Fisher, General Manager for South and East Devon at the National Trust, commented on the collaboration: “We’re thrilled to be collaborating with someone from the local community. This project not only supports village life but also enhances the experience for visitors.”

The village shop stocks fresh local produce including fruit, vegetables, meat, cheeses, and bread from a Sidmouth bakery, delivered fresh twice weekly. It also offers local goods such as soaps and balms made from Branscombe honey, and plants grown nearby. The shop additionally acts as a collection point for the local food co-op In My Back Yard (IMBY).

Future plans include a series of craft workshops, featuring traditional skills such as stool building and basket weaving, echoing the village's rich historical legacy of craftsmanship and community.

Photos: Meg Vallender, National Trust Images.