Ock River Bakery

Dreams Really Do Come True — Mine Just Happens to Smell Like Freshly Baked Pastries

I’ve been cooking since I was 17, always imagining the day I’d have a place of my own. At first, I pictured a cosy farm shop or a little café… but life had a better plan.

While running my catering business, Chef at Home, at Coxeter House, a fantastic opportunity popped up — right underneath my kitchen! And that’s how my dream started taking shape: a vintage bakery shed.

A little about me: I’ve spent years as Head Chef at The Eyston Arms in East Hendred, but pastries have always been my favourite. In my busy kitchen, I made most of the puddings — and loved it.

More recently, since starting my catering company, I’ve been working a few hours a week at a local bakery, Blewbury Bread, to hone my skills. Thanks to Jack and Paul, I’ve learned the art of lamination — the magic behind those buttery, flaky layers that make your heart (and stomach) so happy. Therapeutic in every way.

Now, with the right timing, finances, and the help of some fab friends and my wonderful partner, it’s all coming together — my little dream is becoming real.

I can’t wait to welcome you all in, share my baking, and hopefully send you away with a smile… and maybe a croissant or two.

Along for the ride in the bakery shed, I’ll be working with some fantastic local suppliers — bringing their amazing ingredients and products into the mix — while still making about 70% of everything myself, fresh and from scratch. Think of it as the best of both worlds: my passion and recipes, paired with the incredible talents of other local producers.