Village Green News - Autumn 2025

Whenever I encourage folk to sign up to our newsletter to nab a free coffee I always say, don't worry, you won't be inundated - given that my last musings were 6 months ago, I clearly keep to my word! Lots to talk about not least our recent audit by Faith Johnson from the Peak District Environmental Quality Mark.

Village Green EQM Audit

It is always a very positive process, informative, reflective, and a reminder of the value of each & every business choice we make. Here's what Faith had to say;

" Autumn is audit time in the Environmental Quality Mark calendar and this September I had the pleasure of visiting Village Green Café. They’ve held the award since 2013 for their commitment to serving locally sourced, ethical and of course delicious food and drink to their local community and Peak District visitors alike. This year I was pleased to see further reductions in plastic use and waste. I also saw details of their forthcoming energy efficiency focused refurbishment. And I particularly love the carefully chosen environmentally sensitive gifts and treats they offer alongside the food offering. Well done Sara and the team, you passed with flying colours! "

Faith Johnson, Environmental Assessor

Earn rewards every time you shop!

Earn While You Shop!

One example of this, is the launch of our new paper-less reward scheme for you lovely folk. Next time you visit, just scan the Sumup Local QR code at the till point - you earn rewards every time you shop at Village Green & other local businesses. It’s free to join, easy to use, and gives you exclusive perks just for supporting the businesses you love.

It has been a super-busy Summer thanks to glorious weather and all the wonderful work that local folk do promoting the beauty of the Peak District. One of my favourite local artists is the talented @Peaklass who has published the most special book (ideal if you're Christmas shopping early!) take a look here.

Gorgeous plums fresh from the garden - the wasps have enjoyed these too!

Although as a team we have worked super hard, I've had time to notice the bounty in our hedgerows, walk and pick blackberries (sooo sweet this year) and although no holiday just yet, have taken days out to spend with our nearest and dearest. I have a box of apples at home waiting to be baked into cakes and pies - some from our garden and others from friends with a glut. Finally, after years of waiting our plum tree has produced a lovely crop - any tips on reaching the highest fruit welcome! I have simply roasted some in the oven, halved & sprinkled with brown sugar and a squeeze of orange juice and they make the most delicious topping for granola or yoghurt at breakfast time. Autumn all the way. There are still later varieties of plums available so if you get chance give it a try.

Forging ahead with future plans

We are thrilled to have been awarded grant funding through Derbyshire Dales District Council to support the resilience and growth of small rural businesses. Not only is this affirmation of VG being a business worth investing in, it has also enabled us to plan an ambitious redesign of the cafe to really get behind the cosy cafe vibe where you can relax, as well as create a streamlined workspace for our fantastic team. Speaking of which we are delighted to have welcomed Sam & Chloe to our team recently - they are both a delight to work with and bring a enthusiasm, skill and care to all they do.

Now open 7 days a week!

At the busiest points we are bursting at the seams so we hope we can achieve our intention of a calmer space for all. The work will start on 24th November and we will be closed for a 2 week period from that date.

To help with the costs involved with this major project you may have noticed we have been opening 7 days a week throughout the Summer - this will continue for the foreseeable & your support is very much appreciated.

Please spread the word that you can now enjoy a lovely coffee and bake almost every day of the week.

Autumn Recommendations

First on the list is the marvellous Dig It podcast with Jo Whiley and Zoe Ball - it's a gentle listen with a lot of gardening tips and musings on family life, music, and much more.

Ruthie's Table with the legend that is Ruth Rogers, founder of River Cafe - huge back catalogue to dip into and a real joy. Olivia Coleman reading her recipe is like an M&S ad....

And on audible I'm listening to the Satsuma Complex written by Bob Mortimer who's deadpan delivery is a joy as well as the delightful way the main character views his world. It's a treat.

Celebrity Traitors - the excitement in our house is real (well maybe less so from the other half but for me & the kids we can hardly contain ourselves!).

That's all for now, we'll keep you informed about our redesign and refurbishment - watch this space!