Since buying Lynford Gardens in 2011, husband and wife team, Mel and Chris Tilley, have worked hard to bring the derelict and unloved former Lynford Hall gardens and gardeners' cottages back to life. They run their successful Clayland Land and Country Homes from the former greenhouse, now named The Glass House. They live in the former Head Gardener’s Cottage with their youngest son, Toby and three dogs, Morgan, Gypsy and Teddy (which you probably often see around the Shepherds Baa). They’ve also renovated the derelict cottages into holiday cottages which are available on Airbnb. They have also created a beautiful wildflower field which you will see in the Spring if you walk past the Arboretum.

 

Ever the entrepreneurs, during lockdown in 2021, they needed a project so they decided to ‘knock up’ a Shepherds Baa hut and open a café onsite. They didn’t realise quite how successful this would be and, having never run a café before, found it a huge learning curve (and still are!!). They try wherever possible to source local produce and are always on the lookout for new suppliers.

 

The café is situated in an ideal place for dog walkers, bird watchers and anyone with an interest in the countryside. Located on the edge of Lynford Arboretum and Lynford Lakes, there are great walks around and even a dog agility course!!

 

They’ve got a great team working for them who are passionate about what they do. So come along and grab yourself a coffee and a delicious snack. There’s even treats for your pooch.