Now that Covid restrictions are being lifted, more of us are heading back to our place of work and life is beginning to feel a bit more like it did BC (Before Covid).
So, if you are stepping away from the confines of the four walls we’ve been working in for the last two years, and heading back to the office, it’s time to get re-acquainted with our lunchtime hangouts.
Thankfully, in the Midlands we are blessed with having some vibrant towns, gorgeous countryside and historic places to visit right on our doorstep and as the weather is getting better, it is the perfect time to get outside.
If you are in Leamington, the formal Victorian park, Jephson Gardens, is a particular haven and a retreat from the hustle and bustle of the town centre. As well as plenty of pathways to explore, there are colourful flowerbeds and sculptures to enjoy and a lovely café nestled in the middle giving you the perfect excuse to escape the office for a bit of calm.
If you are after a quick bit of retail therapy Leamington has something for everyone, including Lilac Rose, Henderson Hound, Neal’s Yard and Decanter Spirit. There’s also no shortage of places to eat – our favourites are Red Hot Mammas pizza, and Haddie and Trilby café  in Regent Street which has the most awesome pastries!
Although Chipping Campden is small, it is a beautiful town with a vibrant high street. An hour may not be enough time to visit all the shops which include bookshops, artisan food stores and one of our favourites, Robert Welch’s cutlery and tableware store. And don’t forget to visit The Court Barn Museum which features fascinating exhibitions about the designers and craftspeople who have worked in and around Chipping Campden since the early 20th century.
For places to eat or get a coffee, we recommend Campden Coffee Co which serves great coffee, an array of cakes, and hot and cold food.
There’s no shortage of things to do if you are in Pershore. The undercover market is great for a mooch or grabbing a tasty treat and there are a range of specialist shops if you are in need of a present or two. Alternatively, you could venture out on one of the local town walks or of course visit the Abbey. In the summer the tower is often open for visitors to climb up and take in the wonderful views.
In Stratford, a relaxing lunchtime stroll down by the river is a great way to unwind and there are plenty of spots to have a picnic lunch if the weather is kind. Alternatively, go up the tower at the RST and take in the views or for a bit of history and culture, why not pay a quick visit to Shakespeare’s Birthplace?
There are plenty of shopping opportunities in town thanks to an array of independent shops and boutiques that line the centre of town and you won’t go hungry either with the multitude of places to eat. We love Vinegar Hill, Domino, The Box Brownie Café and Loxley’s. Once the weather heats up a bit, a trip to Hoorays ice cream parlour is a must!
Wherever you are though, and whatever time you have, it really is important to take a break from work, get out of the office, stretch your legs and get some fresh air. It will leave you refreshed, rejuvenated and ready to tackle the rest of the day!