A Guide to Discovering Local Food and Beverage Favorites. In today’s world, globalization has made it easy for us to access every flavor and brand imaginable, but it has also created a serious problem – the ever-increasing carbon footprint of our food. Food travels thousands of kilometers to reach our plates, which not only harms the environment but also affects its taste and freshness.
Recognizing these challenges, The Castle Hotel in Windsor has launched an amazing initiative. They believe that by sourcing products locally and following a farm-to-fork philosophy, they not only help save the planet but also provide guests with the freshest and most flavorful experience.
The Hotel’s Mission: Responsibility Towards the Earth
The Castle Hotel aims not only to provide guests with comfort and luxury, but also to fulfill its responsibility towards the environment. Most of the ingredients used in the hotel’s kitchen and its restaurant, “Leaf,” come from local farmers and producers. This results in:
- Reduced food miles, meaning food doesn’t have to travel long distances.
- A smaller carbon footprint, as less energy is used for transportation.
- Support for the local economy, as it boosts the livelihoods of farmers and small producers.
- And most importantly – enhanced taste and freshness.
Darvilles of Windsor: The Royal Taste of Tea
Darvilles of Windsor, a tea blending expert since 1860, is not just a name, but a tradition. It is Windsor’s oldest family business and has held a Royal Warrant since 1946 – meaning it supplies tea directly to the Royal Family at Windsor Castle.
Guests can enjoy their teas at the hotel at any time. The highlight is the Royal Afternoon Tea experience, where guests feel like they are part of a truly regal tradition. Beechwood Eggs: Fresh Eggs from Free-Range Hens
Beechwood Eggs: Fresh eggs from free-range chickens
Beechwood Eggs, located in Thatcham, is a family-run farm where the hens roam freely from sunrise to sunset. This is why their eggs are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.
The hotel claims that these eggs reach their kitchen within just 36 hours. So, when guests enjoy an omelet or scrambled eggs for breakfast, they experience true freshness.
Stanlake Park: A Historic Wine Journey
Established in 1166, Stanlake Park in Twyford is one of the oldest and largest vineyards in England, spanning 130 acres. Its Stanlake Brut and King’s Fumé wines are the pride of the hotel’s drinks list.
A sip of their wine transports guests straight to the beauty of the English countryside.
100 Acres: The Fragrance of Nature
The 100 Acres brand, used in the hotel’s bathrooms and bedrooms, is made entirely from natural botanical ingredients. Their body wash, shampoo, hand wash, and body lotion not only soothe guests but also protect the environment.
A portion of the proceeds from this brand is donated to Rewilding Britain, ensuring the beauty of British nature is preserved for generations to come.
Tutts Clump Cider: Traditional Cider Made with Real Fruit
Tutts Clump Cider, a family-run farm in Bradfield, produces full-flavored cider made from real apples. Their unique approach involves collecting surplus or unwanted apples from surrounding orchards.
The remaining fruit pulp is given to local farmers to feed their livestock. This sustainable practice makes them even more special.
Windsor & Eton Brewery: Tradition and Community
Located in the heart of Windsor, this brewery is an integral part of the town’s history and culture. The tradition of delivering beer by horse and cart is still practiced here.
Their Republika Pilsner Lager, served at the hotel, offers guests a taste of local flavor and freshness.
Special Dietary and Religious Options
In today’s world, everyone has different dietary needs. Some follow a plant-based diet for a healthy lifestyle, while others require specific diets for medical or religious reasons.
The hotel’s restaurant, Leaf, understands these needs and offers:
- Vegan options,
- Vegetarian dishes, and
- Gluten-free food.
The team also caters to religious dietary requirements.
Aldens of Oxford: A 200-Year-Old Butchers Shop
In 1792, Isaac Alden started his butcher shop in Oxford. 230 years later, Aldens of Oxford continues its tradition of quality and flavor.
Their meat is of such high quality that it is supplied to the Houses of Parliament. The Alden sausages served at The Castle Hotel are a testament to this tradition and quality.
Conclusion
The Castle Hotel is more than just a place to stay or eat. It’s an experience, where the hard work of local producers, environmental responsibility, and fresh flavors combine to create a beautiful story. Whether it’s Darvill’s tea, Beechwood eggs, Stanlake Park wine, or Tatch Clump cider – everything reflects local sourcing, freshness, and tradition. The Castle Hotel has proven that when we care about the environment and the community, the taste on our plates and our overall experience is even richer.It becomes sweeter.
