It’s on its way – no, not another delivery from Amazon – it’s Christmas which is just around the corner! But, so much to do and so little time to do it – and what about the tree?
I know, you don’t fancy queuing outside a supermarket, but you do like the idea of choosing exactly the tree you want, so what about doing something a bit different this year as you could also go green and buy a tree with roots on, replant it after Christmas, and use it again each year?
You don’t need to travel far to get these choices under one roof – well, in a field, to be more precise, as at Tibbs Farm in Udimore there are trees a-plenty, of all shapes and sizes, rooted or not, and one may have your name on it. And indeed one had Strand Quay’s name on it!
Takeaway drinks, cake and tree
How does it work? Well, you park up in the free car park, have a socially distanced wander amongst the trees, find one you like, and then attach your numbered label to your chosen tree. Whilst waiting for it to be either cut down, or dug up (if you want it with roots), order your takeaway drinks and cake, have another wander around, and enjoy the stunning views over the Tillingham Valley.
Then load up your tree and head home. Easy peasy, no hassle, a pleasurable experience whilst supporting a very worthy local business who in return are only too pleased to help you.
When you think of Tibbs Farm you immediately think of “pick your own fruit and vegetables” which is not surprising as the Wheeler family, who run the family business, have owned the farm since 1965 and, as well as producing fruit, seasonable vegetables and hops, they also rear native Romney Marsh sheep.
The business has gone from strength to strength and the latest addition is the farm shop and café, which opened earlier this year after a long time in the planning process with local produce plus jams, marmalades, hot drinks and a good range of very naughty (but nice) cakes to take away and savour as you wander around the fields of Christmas trees, whilst taking in the stunning views over open farmland, as far as the eye can see.
Going to get a Christmas tree doesn’t have to be painful, it can be a pleasurable experience too and, let’s face it, who needs an excuse at the moment to nip out, get a bit of fresh air and, as well as picking the tree of your choice, you can also treat yourself to something special as your reward.
Tibbs Farm is situated just 3 miles from Rye on the B2089 in Udimore, you can make contact on 01797 222009, or by email to tibbsfarmrye@gmail.com, on Facebook @tibbsfarm, or you can pop in to Tibbs Farm, Udimore, Rye, East Sussex, TN31 6AR.
Image Credits: Sue Forman .
Am choosing my tree next week but went over yesterday and met a friend (socially distancing of course) and took her dog. We did one of their lovely walks (the longer one) which took us about 1 hour 15 minutes! It was a cold day but the views were breathtaking and our reward was a takeaway lovely hot coffee, cake and I had a sausage roll delicious, and whilst tucking in we saw many happy customers collecting their trees!