Autumn is here…

It has been a busy summer at 2 Ivy House. Chloe and I have had so many lovely guests from all parts of the world. We walked with some, whilst others chose to walk on their own. The fields have been beautiful! Spoilt for choice in this area for fine pubs and restaurants. It was lovely to provide some of our walking guests with good home cooked meals. The vegetarian chilli and lasagnes proving to be a firm favourite. Our dog Chloe is seen here taking a rest on Donald’s bench before heading down to St Thomas’ church.

Church of St Thomas…

The tiny Norman Church of St Thomas, which is now cared for by the Churches Conservation Trust, has many medieval features. This year a very old tradition of the village will hopefully take place once again. The little Christmas service that was once held on the last Saturday before Christmas will take place this year at 3.00 P.M. (21 December).

Homemade & Local…

The fantastic selection of local produce around this area is encouragement for anyone to try new recipes. Having now made my own mayonnaise I cannot imagine buying it again. It’s quicker to make than I thought, and so few ingredients:

  • 2 egg yolks
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 250 ml sunflower oil
  • 2 tsp white wine vinegar and or lemon according to taste
  • Salt & pepper

Slowly, slowly, drop by drop add the oil to the egg yolks and Dijon mustard by whisking. I do this by hand and it takes about 10 minutes but an electric whisk speeds this up. Once mixed and thickened, add the salt and pepper to taste, and the white wine vinegar and lemon juice. It’s delicious! Keeps in the fridge for 3/4 days…

Summer Fruits..

Lots and lots and lots of damsons… Who else has had a bumper year? What else can you do with them? Jam, gin????? Well, who would have thought I would get first prize at the local produce show. lol…

Weekend Walking On The North Wessex Downs.

Get away from it all…

3 NIGHT ALL INCLUSIVE WEEKEND BREAK £495.00 per person {based on 2 people sharing}

The Stables offers self contained accommodation, a perfect staycation for enthusiastic walkers. Discover the beautiful North Wessex Downs and the Lambourn Valley Way with our guided walks. The walks will take you along an ancient track {one of Britain’s oldest roads} to Iron Age monuments, pretty villages, local pubs and historic towns. The Lambourn Valley Way walks will ebb in and out along one of the few remaining chalk rivers in an AONB.

Afternoon cream tea on arrival.

Your weekend {Friday – Monday} will include afternoon cream tea on arrival, dinner, bed and breakfast and a packed lunch for your two days of walking. Guided walking and transportation to and from the locations when needed. Some of our walks may commence from the house. (Advance notice needed for all allergies and dietary requirements).

Lambourn Valley Way.

The clear water of the chalk river running along the Lambourn Valley Way. Red kites, owls and occasionally, if you are lucky the kingfisher makes an appearance.

See more photos here.

We are adhering to the COVID 19 POLICY [2022] as set by the government.

A YEAR @ IVY HOUSE

On Top Of The World

A view overlooking Great Shefford, from just one of the many walks nearby 2 Ivy House. It’s been one whole year, cannot believe it. We have been delighted to host some really lovely guests and are looking forward to a few returns in the near future. Here’s hoping that the next year will be as rewarding. The garden is taking shape and there are encouraging signs that damson jam will be on the breakfast menu again this year.

A Great Start To Your Stay

Afternoon Cream Tea… Homemade scones with strawberry and raspberry jam, clotted cream and a glass of bubbly. Full afternoon tea is also available.

Winter Wonderland

Where in the world is this? Oh yes just up the road but it was stunning. The local children able to toboggan, and some grown ups too! Didn’t fancy the walk back to the top too many times. It’s much easier in the summer.

Garden Flowers

Fresh Seasonal Flowers added to the room, its the little extras that make it special. Please ask us for details