Since the Covid-19 pandemic there has been a noticeable shift in peoples’ mindsets to focus more on their mental health and well-being.
So as many of us head back to the office at least for some of the week, it’s worth remembering to take regular breaks and if you can, step out of the building at least once during the day. Fresh air, a break from the screen and a stretch of the legs all contribute to our heart and head health.
With this in mind, and in the second of our blogs on ideas for things to do in your lunchbreak, we asked our staff for their favourite places, and top tips for getting out of the office for a bit.
Anyone lucky enough to work in Kineton really has no excuse not to get out. This pretty town is blessed with some fantastic shops and places to grab more than a slice of cake. We have it on good authority that HC Lewis Butchers makes the best sausage rolls and the Corner Cottage Bakery the tastiest cruffins. Gilks Garage is great for a lunch stop, or, if you are pushed for time, grabbing a takeaway coffee and slice of cake. For early birds it does a great breakfast too!
If you have time, our spies tell us a walk from the centre of Kineton down to Little Kineton and back, is a lovely stroll, particularly in the summer months.
For those working in Kenilworth, there is plenty to occupy you at lunchtime. As well as a decent high street with lots of shops, businesses, cafes and restaurants, there is also a thriving market on Thursdays. Our favourites include Kenilworth Books, which as well as the latest bestsellers for adults and kids, includes a choice selection of cards and gifts. Joe Richards Fruitier and Greengrocer is fab for your five a day and if you want some flowers to brighten up your office or your home, The Orangery in Talisman Square is the place to go to.
If you are looking for something to eat or drink during the day, our recommendations include Forrest Coffee House which does great pastries and coffee, Lil Greens restaurant for lunch and breakfast and The Deli-on-the Hill which does excellent coffee and cakes as well as breakfasts and lunches.
If you fancy a walk, head out to Abbey Fields which is also a perfect spot for a picnic if the sun is out. Or if it’s a bit of culture you crave, why not pay a quick visit to Kenilworth Castle (pictured)? Now owned, maintained and run by English Heritage, the beautiful gardens and remains of the castle are great to explore.
In Evesham a visit to the Almonry Museum is a great way to spend a lunchbreak. Dating back to the 14th century, this Grade I listed building was originally built as the home of the almoner, a monk from Evesham’s Benedictine abbey, but is now the town’s museum. Artefacts include the 14th Century Abbot’s chair, beautiful, illuminated manuscripts, prehistoric fossils and a display of rare Georgian clothing.
If you need to stretch your legs a bit more, why not go for a walk down by the river and take a picnic if the weather is dry. Don’t forget to pay a visit to Gummy Gumdrops in Bridge Street on the way – it is one of the best sweet shops in the area!
For lunch head to Flavours, a family-owned and run café which has amazing pizzas and a huge range of delicious ice cream, or for pub fare, The Trumpet Inn has an extensive menu of tasty dishes from bar snacks and light bites to full roasts.
Fitness fanatics can make use of Evesham Leisure Centre in Abbey Road which provides plenty of options to burn off a few calories whether in the pool, in a scheduled class or in the fitness room.
Anyone lucky enough to work in Winchcombe will find no shortage of things to do or places to go for food, coffee or shopping. Our staff rave about the Honey Bea’s Café in Hailes Street which serves great coffee and sandwiches. For an on-the-go lunch option we are reliably informed North Street Bakery is the place to head to. As well as a variety of traditional and speciality bread, this amazing place also has its own range of chocolate, pastries and seasonal cakes.
Winchcombe is so pretty that even just wandering around the town and window shopping is worth a trip away from the desk. But if you are in the mood to spend, our favourite shops in town include Just Incase which has a lovely selection of gifts and cards for any and all occasions, Footlights or Lavender Blue for a fashion fix of clothes, shoes and accessories and the amazing deli and coffee shop, Food Fanatics. If you have time for a proper relax and a bit of a pamper before heading back to the office, Beauty Beyond is the place to be.
With the River Stour running through it, Shipston is a pretty town and if you have an hour to spare there is no shortage of great places to eat, drink and shop. El Café is a fantastic option for lunch thanks to its extensive and delicious tapas selection. Whether you want a full English or just a takeaway coffee and cake, the Blue Bean Coffee Shop and Café will definitely fit the bill.
The Richard Harvey Collection is perfect for browsing if you need a card or gift. But you will also get inspiration for all areas of your home thanks to its collection of clocks, lighting, soft furnishings and fashion. Mad Molly in Market Place is another great gift shop where you can find all manner of cards, gifts, homewares and stationery.
Alternatively, if you just want to get out for a bit of exercise and some fresh air, take a trip to the Leisure Centre or go for a walk down by the river.