I first discovered Hodsock Priory a few years ago. Despite the name, Hodsock is not, and never has actually been a priory, it does though date back at least to the Bronze age and was even mentioned in the Doomsday book.
Hodsock Priory and gardens are at the centre of the 800-acre Hodsock Estate. The farm is 700 acres whilst there is also 100 acres of beautiful managed woodland. The house, although often used as a wedding venue, is not open to the public, but the gardens and woods open to visitors in February during the snow drop season, the woodland walk being a picture during the otherwise dull month of February.
Pay attention, here comes the history bit. Hodsock was owned by the Cressey family from the mid-12th century for more than 200 years. The Clifton family took over the estate at the beginning of the 15th century and owned it through 14 generations to 1765, it was not their main home, although they did entertain Henry VIII there (now there is a man who likes his food) In 1765 Hodsock was sold for the only time in its history and bought by the neighbouring Mellish family. During the 19th Century, the house was twice rebuilt and was renamed Hodsock Priory. The estate passed to Sir Andrew Buchanan, 5th Baronet in 1966. In 1991 he was appointed Lord Lieutenant of Nottinghamshire. The house is now owned by George and Katherine Buchanan.
The gardens at Hodsock were developed in the first half of the 20th century under the guidance of head gardener, Arthur Ford. Ford regularly wrote articles for gardening magazines, and was reputedly head-hunted by Kew Gardens.
Now it looks like a new page in the history book is being written and this time its about food.
Over the years there has been the addition of a wood cabin selling much needed warm drinks part way around the walk, being close to the lit bonfire where chilly walkers can stop to reheat. There is now also a marque offering a variety of food snacks provided by nearby local suppliers W & M Wright from Carlton in Lindrick. Emphasis is on the traditional British hot food to reward the walker, or for that matter anyone wanting to stop by for some tasty warm grub within beautiful quiet surroundings.
W & M Wright was established in 1961 carrying on the traditional village butchers shop dating back to the 1700’s. Over the years the business developed and they now produce their own livestock at their farm at Wallingwells, giving them full control of their meats which go into their own high quality pies which can be purchased at Hodsock. They also cater for wedding breakfasts, corporate events,hog roasts and Barbecues.
We tucked into a good old bacon sarnie. Lightly smoked bacon on soft white bread. We also sampled a tasty veg pastie. Seasoned potatoes and veg encased within golden pastry. There was also warm Cornish pasties and minced beef pasties as well as soup of the day and home made cakes and scones. Judging by the queue, it looks like Hodsock might become as popular for the food as it is for the snowdrops.
For more information visit: www.hodsockpriory.com/
Or you can follow on Twitter @hodsockpriory
Tanya Raybould
