I’ve always loved wandering through the picturesque villages of the Cotswolds. From Stow-on-the-Wold to Bourton-on-the-Water, this region boasts some of England’s most beautiful and tranquil spots. However, not every attraction here lives up to its buzz, especially those trending on social media.
Daylesford Organic Farm Shop, founded by Carole Bamford, has recently become a viral sensation, with hordes of visitors sharing their experiences on TikTok. Set within a working organic farm, it offers an enticing array of artisan breads, fresh produce, award-winning cheeses, and stylish home furnishings. The site also features several dining options and a garden centre filled with handcrafted tableware and antiques.
At first glance, Daylesford impresses with its elegant branding, stunning interiors, and Instagram-worthy corners. But beneath its visual appeal lies a crowded, pricey experience that felt far from the peaceful countryside retreat I was expecting.
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Weekends in particular turn Daylesford into a chaotic hub reminiscent of a busy supermarket—packed car parks, congested pathways, and long queues dominate the atmosphere. While the café can be a highlight with excellent food and attentive service when timed right, the overall cost is hard to justify.
For example, a sharing portion of crisps was around £7, a flower-pressed chocolate bar cost a staggering £15, and a biscuit packet was priced at £9. Even a coffee set me back £6.50. Though all products are organic, the steep prices felt excessive.
Browsing the homeware section proved equally discouraging. Transparent storage containers with the Daylesford logo started at £20, with some items, like one container, retailing as high as £45. A basket bag was priced at £60. When the café became too crowded, I tried the outdoor van for a takeaway drink, only to wait 10 minutes in line—dampening any enthusiasm to return.
If you’re visiting the Cotswolds and happen to be nearby, Daylesford might be worth a quick stop. However, I wouldn’t recommend making it the focus of your trip. There are far better farm shops, homeware stores, and attractions that offer more value and a truly authentic countryside experience.