Drewton's Newsletter
Autumn Newsletter 2025
DREWTON’S SEASONAL WELCOME!
Dear Friends,
As autumn paints the countryside in golden hues, we’re delighted to welcome you to Drewton’s for a truly magical season. Whether you’re popping in for a morning coffee, browsing our farm shop, or planning festive celebrations, there’s so much to enjoy...
Pumpkins & Fairy Trails
October brings enchantment with our pumpkin patch foraging and brand-new Enchanted Fairy Trail - a whimsical woodland walk with fantastical creatures, fairy doors, and storytelling stations to spark imaginations.
Workshops & Craft Weekends
Celebrate the season with hands-on workshops and craft festivals featuring local makers. From wreath-making and festive floristry to our Village Harvest Auction, there’s something for everyone—check our website for dates.
Make Christmas Magical
Let us take the stress out of your festive prep with our Christmas Order Form, available in-store and online. Choose from bronze turkeys, seafood platters, pork pies, puddings, and show-stopping beef Wellingtons.
Hampers & Gifts
Our bespoke hampers are filled with handpicked goodies—perfect for gifting or treating yourself. Gift vouchers are also available.
Festive Dining & Parties
Enjoy our seasonal Christmas menu throughout December—ideal for lunch with loved ones (including your furry friends!). For larger celebrations, The Manor Rooms offers elegant party nights and bespoke events with delicious catering and entertainment.
Thank you for being part of the Drewton’s community. We can’t wait to welcome you this season!
Warmest wishes, Katie x
LIVE THE RURAL DREAM ON THE DREWTON ESTATE
Ever dreamed of living in the heart of the Yorkshire countryside? The Drewton Estate offers a unique opportunity to enjoy long-term residential living in one of the most beautiful parts of the East Riding of Yorkshire, right on the edge of the Wolds Way.
Choose from a selection of two to four-bedroom rental properties, including brand-new renovations and refurbishments with modern conveniences, private parking, and public footpaths just steps from your door.
Enjoy life on a working farm, with the added luxury of having a farm shop and restaurant on site—perfect for fresh produce, artisan treats, and delicious dining. With excellent transport links, you’re within easy reach of Leeds, York, Beverley, Hull, the coast, and even London, thanks to nearby motorways and train stations.
Country living with convenience, comfort, and community—welcome home to Drewton!
MEET THE PRODUCER
“Drewton’s is such a prestigious brand within the local area, and to be recognised as part of that is quite an honour. Our businesses share many of the same values, such as sourcing local ingredients, operating sustainably, and only offering the highest quality produce.
In addition to this, Drewton’s was one of our first customers and they really helped us to progress our business. I’m very grateful to Katie and her team at Drewton’s for the support and encouragement in the business’ early days.” - Luke’s Bakery
AWARD RECOGNITION FOR THE TEAM
A TASTE OF SUCCESS
At the time of going to print, we’re proud to announce that Drewton’s Farm Shop and The Manor Rooms have been shortlisted for several prestigious local awards:
• Farm Shop of the Year – Yorkshire Post Rural Awards 2025
• Best Independent Retailer – Deliciously Yorkshire Awards 2025
• REYTA Awards 2025: Remarkable Business Events Venue, Remarkable Cuppa, and Remarkable Taste of East Yorkshire
With strong competition from across the region, it’s an honour to be recognised for our dedication to quality, local produce, events expertise, and community spirit.
Meanwhile, our talented chefs have earned a Gold Star in the national Guild of Fine Food’s Great Taste Awards 2025 for our handmade Basque Cheesecake. The judges were full of praise, commenting: “This is a delicious Basque cheesecake with a light, gently acidic flavour complemented by the caramelised top. Firm, not heavy—indeed beautifully light and not overly sweet at all. Creamy and lactic. We love the dinky size! Delicious.”
Other judges noted its pleasing appearance, firm texture, and well-balanced sweet and savoury elements, describing it as a product with “good length and development of flavour.” We’re incredibly proud of our team and grateful to our customers for your continued support. Here’s to celebrating Yorkshire’s finest food and farming!
FREDDIE'S PUMPKINS
October is all about pumpkins, fairy magic, and family fun at Freddie’s Pumpkin Patch! Entry is completely free, and visitors can explore over 25,000 pumpkins across 35+ varieties - just pay for what you forage!
New this year is our Enchanted Fairy Trail, featuring a fairy house village, cheeky pumpkins, woodland creatures, and more! There will be so many magical photo opportunities throughout the patch and it’s the perfect autumn adventure for little ones (and grown-ups too!).
Throughout the month and over half-term, we’re hosting a range of seasonal events including craft workshops, Halloween-themed afternoon teas, and we’re celebrating our Harvest with an Apple & Honey festival, and a village Pie ‘n’ Pea Supper. Whether you’re picking the perfect pumpkin, enjoying a spooky treat, or getting creative with the kids, there’s something for everyone.
Wrap up warm, bring the dog (we’re dog-friendly!), and celebrate the season with us. No booking required - just turn up and enjoy the magic of October on our opening days!
CLIMB FOR CANCER
A JOURNEY OF COURAGE AND HOPE
In June, Freddie reached the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, completing his inspiring Climb for Cancer and raising nearly £48,000 for The Teenage Cancer Trust and Castle Hill Hospital’s Queen’s Centre for Oncology. His six-day trek through rugged terrain and high altitudes was a true test of endurance, determination, and spirit—especially for someone who has experienced cancer first-hand.
Freddie’s journey has touched the hearts of many, and his fundraising efforts will make a lasting difference for patients and families facing cancer. From battling illness to remission and now conquering one of the world’s tallest mountains, Freddie’s story is one of resilience and hope.
Coming soon: Freddie is planning to give a special presentation to share his story and personally thank everyone who supported him throughout his cancer journey and this incredible climb.
And he’s not stopping there - Freddie is already talking about climbing Mera Peak in the Himalayas by 2028! Let’s continue to cheer him on as he inspires us all to reach new heights.
“This challenge wasn’t only physically tough, but mentally too. I’d like to thank everyone who supported me; every step has been worth it” - Freddie Cole.
FESTIVE DINING AT DREWTON'S
Celebrate the season in style with Drewton’s Christmas Menu, available throughout December! Our chefs have crafted a delicious selection of seasonal favourites and exciting new dishes to make your festive gatherings truly memorable.
Enjoy classics like butter-roasted turkey breast with all the trimmings and traditional Christmas pudding, or try something new with our hot smoked salmon fishcakes, rich and comforting pork osso buco, and the show-stopping Black Forest baked Alaska cone.
Don’t miss our Festive Afternoon Teas, perfect for a cosy catch-up with friends or a special treat with loved ones.
And if you’re looking for something extra special? The Manor Rooms will be hosting a range of seasonal events, from crafting afternoon teas and elegant dinners to festive parties—ideal for celebrating with colleagues, friends, or family.
Book early to avoid disappointment and make this Christmas one to remember!
SEASONAL FLAVOURS IN THE DELI & BUTCHERY
Step into the festive spirit with Drewton’s award-winning Delicatessen and Butcher’s Counter! Our talented chefs are busy crafting gourmet dishes, seasonal pies, pastries, cakes, and bakes—perfect for cosy nights, Christmas gatherings, and indulgent treats.
Our shelves are brimming with Yorkshire cheeses, chutneys, and seasonal artisan delights, ideal for hampers, platters, and celebrations. And with our Christmas Order Form now live, you can pre-order everything from traditional bronze turkeys and geese to handmade pies, veg boxes, seafood platters, and delectable puds.
At the Butcher’s Counter, discover high-welfare meats including Drewton Estate Wagyu and seasonal game, cured bacon, and award-winning sausages. We also offer oven-ready cuts and festive specials to make your Christmas cooking stress-free and delicious.
Pop in and chat with our friendly team—they’re here to help you plan the perfect festive feast, whether you’re stocking up for the season or preparing for the big day!
MEET THE MASTERS BEHIND THE MENU
DREWTON'S TALENTED CHEFS​
At the heart of Drewton’s lies a passionate team of nine talented chefs, whose creativity and dedication bring flavour and flair to every dish. This October, they’ll unveil our next seasonal menu, featuring delicious brunches, lunches, and afternoon teas that celebrate the very best of local, seasonal produce. But their magic doesn’t stop there! Behind the scenes, this skilled team juggles
crafting pies, pastries, cakes, and bakes for our award-winning delicatessen; designing and delivering menus for our busy restaurant; and catering for a wide range of events at The Manor Rooms - from weddings and special occasions to corporate functions, wakes, and charity fundraisers.
Their passion for food and commitment to quality shine through in every bite. Whether you’re popping in for a casual lunch or attending a grand celebration, you’ll taste the difference that local ingredients and expert hands make.
CELEBRATING FIFTEEN, OUR JOURNEY THROUGH THE YEARS
LAYING THE FOUNDATIONS
The Drewton Estate has always been a place of heritage and beauty, but by the early 2000s, it needed careful restoration. In 2004, the Taylor family embarked on an ambitious journey to revive its character, restore its old walls and lakes, and breathe new life into its buildings with considerate renovation and development to create a community of long-term residential lets.
In 2009, two holiday cottages—The Dairy and The Old Cowshed—were created from old cattle buildings. Retaining original features while adding modern comforts, these cottages set the tone for Drewton’s unique style: rooted in history but designed for contemporary life.
This period also marked the start of a commitment to sustainability. Renewable energy systems including biomass boilers and solar panels were installed across the estate, reducing the environmental footprint by utilising its own wood chip, bore hole water and solar energy.
2010 - THE GRAND OPENING
A five-year labour of love and vision for Katie Taylor came to life in October 2010, when Drewton’s Farm Shop officially opened its doors. Set in lovingly restored farm buildings, the shop became much more than a retail space, with a popular dining destination and as a place for the community to enjoy.
Initially opening with a restaurant, tearoom, delicatessen, butchery, wine and beer cellar, and even a luxury gift store, it has always celebrated the best of Yorkshire produce. From day one, Drewton’s partnered with local farmers, growers, suppliers and artisan producers, a tradition that continues today with over 250 food and drink producers, and partnerships with approx. 200 professional suppliers, from across the region.
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GROWTH AND RECOGNITION
Over the coming years, Drewton’s became a celebrated destination for families, food lovers, and local businesses. Known for its quality brunches, afternoon teas, and hampers, Drewton’s earned widespread acclaim and numerous awards, including:
Drewton’s Farm Shop Awards
REYTAs: Multiple wins including Remarkable Cuppa, Remarkable Breakfast, and Remarkable Taste, Local Food Network: Best Retailer of Local Produce – three consecutive years, Deliciously Yorkshire Awards: Best Independent Retailer (2024), Yorkshire Life: Food Destination of the Year (2013), Hull Lifestyle Awards: Coffee Shop of the Year (2017), Welcome to Yorkshire White Rose Awards: Taste of Yorkshire (2012), Goole & Howdenshire Business Awards: Business of the Year (2016), Yorkshire & Humberside Family Business Awards: Agri Business of the Year (2023), Great Taste Awards: Multiple Gold Stars for handmade pies, sausage rolls, puddings, and tarts, and Yorkshire Choice Awards: Recognised for community impact and excellence.
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The Manor Rooms Awards
Hitched Wedding Awards: Best Barn Venue – three consecutive years, I.Do Wedding Awards: Best Independent Countryside Venue (2024) English Wedding Awards: Romantic Wedding Venue & Wedding Venue of the Year (Yorkshire, 2023), and Northern Enterprise Awards: Best Luxury Rural Wedding & Events Venue – East Yorkshire (2022).
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Katie Taylor MBE
MBE: Awarded in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List (2019) for services to Yorkshire’s economy and community, Goole & Howdenshire Business Awards: Lifetime Achievement (2022), Yorkshire Life Food & Drink Awards: Food Hero of the Year (2018), and Yorkshire Choice Awards: Yorkshire Entrepreneur of the Year (2024).
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2019 - THE MANOR ROOMS: A NEW CHAPTER
By 2019, the demand for event spaces had grown, and Drewton’s answered the call with the opening of The Manor Rooms in May 2019. This stunning extension to the Estate provided a dedicated venue for weddings, celebrations, and corporate events, with the sweeping Wolds countryside views as its backdrop.
The Manor Rooms quickly became known for combining rustic charm with modern elegance,hosting everything from intimate gatherings to large, luxurious weddings, corporate functions, food and craft festivals, and themed ticketed events. It’s launch marked Drewton’s evolution from a farm shop into a full lifestyle and hospitality destination.
Freddie’s Pumpkin Patch was born in 2019 and now boasts over 25,000 pumpkins of 35+ varieties across four acres of fields, with spin-off events including an Enchanted Fairy Trail, a community Pie & Pea Harvest Supper & Auction for the community, Halloween afternoon teas, and craft workshops. Free entry for families and dogs makes this a popular attraction.
2020 - EXPANDING ONLINE
With a world in panic and businesses struggling to stay open, Drewton’s had to evolve into a digital age. The main goal was to keep the heart beating from suppliers and staff, straight to its community of customers. The introduction of an online shop helped bridge the gap between supplier and customer, as well as keeping the workforce in a safe environment.
Drewton’s is still running an online shop with key favourites, hampers, and to purchase event tickets and vouchers, to help people who prefer the ease of online purchasing. But in all honesty, we were glad to be seeing customers in person once again.
2025 - 15 YEARS AND A BRIGHT FUTURE
This year marks a very special milestone - 15 years of Drewton’s Farm Shop. 2025 has brought exciting new developments with a dog-friendly Terrace Dining Room, extending the restaurant and allowing you to bring your furry friend. And, the addition of The Orangery at The Manor Rooms, offering weddings and corporate businesses additional reception space, along with newly landscaped gardens and a courtyard, for guests to enjoy and take elegant pictures.
Today, Drewton’s is home to a team of 65 dedicated staff, working alongside more than 400 Yorkshire businesses to deliver exceptional quality and warm hospitality. From humble beginnings in 2010 to becoming an award-winning food, hospitality, and events destination in 2025, Drewton’s has stayed true to its vision: to celebrate Yorkshire’s food, farming, and countryside. As the business looks to the future, Drewton’s remains committed to supporting local producers, providing a warm welcome to every visitor, and creating unforgettable experiences at both Drewton’s Farm Shop and The Manor Rooms. Here’s to the next 15 years and beyond!
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DATES FOR THE DIARY
WORKSHOPS
Pheasant Painting Workshop and Afternoon Tea
Tuesday 7th October 2025
Autumn Art & Craft Workshops and Exhibition
Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th October 2025
Floral Pumpkin Workshops and Sparkling Cream Tea
Sunday 26th October 2025
Robin Painting Workshop and Afternoon Tea
Monday 27th October 2025
Willow Deer Workshops and Afternoon Tea
Tuesday 4th, Tuesday 18th and Tuesday 25th November 2025
Festive Wreath Decorating Workshops and Sparkling Cream Tea
Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th November 2025
Willow Star with Lights Workshops and Cream Tea
Tuesday 9th December 2025
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EVENTS
Pie ‘n’ Pea Village Supper and Harvest Auction
Friday 10th October 2025
A Dinner And Evening With Adele
Friday 28th November 2025
Burns’ Supper
Saturday 24th January 2026
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CHRISTMAS
Christmas Craft and Food Festivals - Meet The Makers
Saturday 15th and Sunday 16th November 2025
Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd November 2025
Christmas with Celine
Thursday 4th December 2025
Boogie Wonderland!
Friday 5th, 12th and 19th December 2025
Viva Las Christmas!
Saturday 6th and 13th December 2025
Festive Afternoon Tea
Sunday 14th and 21st December 2025
A SUMMER TO REMEMBER AT THE MANOR ROOMS
Wow, what a summer it’s been at The Manor Rooms!
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Since our last newsletter, we’ve enjoyed an incredible few months filled with love, laughter, and celebration. One of the highlights has been the completion of our beautiful new Italianate path, inner courtyard and garden, guiding guests into The Orangery, a brand-new reception function space, which has been buzzing with excitement as couples and families prepare to celebrate weddings and special events.
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With the hottest summer on record, the breathtaking views from The Manor Rooms have provided the perfect backdrop for unforgettable photos and many ceremonies taking place on the terrace. Alongside our stunning weddings, we’ve seen a rise in smaller, more personal celebrations—especially baby showers, which have filled our calendar with joy and anticipation for new arrivals.
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In June, we hosted our very first Food & Drink Festival, a fantastic weekend featuring local Yorkshire producers, miniature horse rides, traditional garden games, and cocktails on the terrace—a true celebration of community and flavour!
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Looking ahead, it’s hard to believe that Christmas is just around the corner, and bookings are already flying in! Some of our key festive dates are nearly full, so don’t miss out!
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We’ve got a magical line-up of seasonal events, including our popular Art and Craft weekends, workshops include a painting workshop with Eleanor Tomlinson - the talented artist behind the famous Queen and Paddington Bear illustration, and many festive dining and party dates, including an Adele Tribute evening with a delicious two-course dinner.
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We can’t wait to welcome you for a magical end to the year—whether you’re celebrating, dining, or simply soaking up the festive atmosphere.
With love, Lisa, Carl, Natalie & Katy.
MEET THE PERFORMER:ALEXANDRA DARBY
Alexandra Darby will be performing at The Manor Rooms on Thursday 4th December, 7pm–11pm for our two-course dinner, and live entertainment event –
Christmas with Celine.
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When asked about performing at The Manor Rooms, Alexandra had this to say: “I’m excited any time I get to perform my show, but I’m especially looking forward to this one in December. Celine has done some stunning Christmas covers, and I’ll be incorporating some of those. Hopefully people will love every part of the show! But if I had to pick one thing people should be excited for, it would be the duets. Audiences always tell us how moving and memorable they are—it’s a special part of the night.”
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Alexandra has been channeling Celine Dion ever since graduating from university, perfecting everything from her powerhouse vocals to the singer’s signature hand gestures. But for Alexandra, one aspect of the impersonation has proven especially tricky: “Definitely the accent! Celine’s French-Canadian speaking voice is very unique, and trying to emulate that has been quite a challenge. Singing like her is one thing—but sounding like her when talking? Much harder!”
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