The Kitchen Garden
Our second Spotlight focuses on one of the most beautiful, fascinating and flourishing enterprises in this part of West Suffolk.
The Kitchen Garden, in Church Lane, is owned and run by Francine Raymond. Francine has lived in Troston for over 20 years, and started The Kitchen Garden about 12 years ago.
A keen gardener herself, Francine offers a selection of herbs, vegetable and perennial plants, as well as an array of locally-produced artefacts, all from the rural idyll that is her “back yard”.
An established author, Francine has written many books on the pleasures and practicalities of keeping garden poultry, and her beloved stock of rare breeds can be found wandering through her premises, supplying all her egg needs, and delighting all who live in - and visit - The Kitchen Garden.
Francine has also written several recipe books explaining how to grow, pick and cook your own vegetables.
Nestling in the tranquillity of a country lane, opposite Troston Church, The Kitchen Garden is a picture of serene and rustic charm, and it opens for business each year at Easter, with an event timed to coincide with the traditional Easter services on offer across the road. Each year, the “HEN PARTY”, as it’s known locally, offers the opportunity to look round at the rare breeds on display, purchase plants and produce, and sample refreshments, whilst the youngsters enjoy an Egg Hunt in the churchyard.
This year’s event took place on Saturday 22 March, and featured an Easter Bonnet competition, which was judged by local BBC weather girl, Julie Reinger.
The Kitchen Garden is open Fridays and Saturdays, 10 am - 5 pm, from Easter to the end of September. For more information, visit:-
Visit the Photo Gallery for more pictures of The Kitchen Garden.
To view a previous Spotlight (Troston Village Fete) , click on the link below.