The Old Forge farm shop, Berwick St James

This image shows a traditional Ploughman's Lunch served on a wooden board at The Old Forge farm shop. The presentation includes a variety of elements: Two small baguette halves – Fresh, crusty baguette segments, ready to be paired with other items on the board. Thick slice of cheddar cheese – A wedge of creamy, yellow cheddar, a staple in classic Ploughman’s fare. Sliced ham – Large, thin slices of ham, with a slightly pink hue and tender texture, lying next to the cheese. Condiments and accompaniments: A small jar of chutney (possibly caramelized onion or fruit-based). A small jar of piccalilli – a bright yellow, tangy pickle relish with chunks of vegetables. A small bowl of pickled onions – glazed and shiny, adding a sour punch to the meal. Mixed salad – A fresh side salad featuring lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, and sprouts, arranged neatly in one corner. Creamy coleslaw – A small bowl of coleslaw with a pinkish tint, likely from the inclusion of red cabbage, adding a crunchy and creamy element to the plate. The board is set on a farm-themed tablecloth, with whimsical chicken illustrations, and cutlery is arranged in the background. The entire presentation has a rustic and hearty feel, fitting for a classic British farm shop meal.

Ploughman’s lunch at The Old Forge farm shop, Berwick St James reviewed

Location –
The Old Forge farm shop,
Langford lane,
Berwick St James,
Salisbury,
Wiltshire.
SP3 4UA

01722 790490

Website – (There is no current website, only Facebook – The Old Forge farm shop).

Date of Visit – 02/11/2024

Notes on the visit: I had sort of heard about this place, maybe a friend of a friend, or something online here or there. A bit of a punt visiting as there was only a hint about a ploughman’s lunch on a photo of a menu from a year or two ago. I believe the Ploughman’s Lunch to be a firm fixture, and well….. read on to find out if this is justified.

The Food

9 – Pickled Onion. Little explosions of sweet wonder. Small but mighty: pickled, however, the acidity is very light. They are quite sweet in flavour but in no way sickly. Nice bit of crunch yet not hard. I believe (I should have asked) that they are Darlington’s Baby Onions In Balsamic Vinegar I highly recommend them.

9 – Pickle. Not just a ploughman’s Pickle, but also Picalilli.

The ploughman’s pickle was light and tasty. Perhaps a bit too light, or maybe a touch more needed. Blimey, I’m being picky here. It was lovely and I believe it to be the self-styled Perfect Ploughman’s Pickle by Tracklements.

The Piclalli was explosive! I asked about what it was, and it was Particularly British Piccalilli again by Tracklements. On their website it is described thus: “Our version of this curious mustard pickle packs a punch of sharpness ” and they are right.

I was not prepared for it. The first spoonful blew my head off!

I was prepared for the second spoonful and treated it with a bit more respect. It was most enjoyable as an accompaniment. Do not eat it neat! It is a glorious addition and one to be savoured.

This image shows a traditional Ploughman's Lunch served on a wooden board at The Old Forge farm shop. The presentation includes a variety of elements: Two small baguette halves – Fresh, crusty baguette segments, ready to be paired with other items on the board. Thick slice of cheddar cheese – A wedge of creamy, yellow cheddar, a staple in classic Ploughman’s fare. Sliced ham – Large, thin slices of ham, with a slightly pink hue and tender texture, lying next to the cheese. Condiments and accompaniments: A small jar of chutney (possibly caramelized onion or fruit-based). A small jar of piccalilli – a bright yellow, tangy pickle relish with chunks of vegetables. A small bowl of pickled onions – glazed and shiny, adding a sour punch to the meal. Mixed salad – A fresh side salad featuring lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, and sprouts, arranged neatly in one corner. Creamy coleslaw – A small bowl of coleslaw with a pinkish tint, likely from the inclusion of red cabbage, adding a crunchy and creamy element to the plate. The board is set on a farm-themed tablecloth, with whimsical chicken illustrations, and cutlery is arranged in the background. The entire presentation has a rustic and hearty feel, fitting for a classic British farm shop meal.
The Old Forge farm shop Ploughman’s Lunch

9 – Cheese & Ham:

The Cheese was excellent! By that I mean, one of the best cheddars that there is. It was Haystack Cheddar by Barbers. Creamy, crumbly, good proud cheddar flavour without too much acid – for me the perfect ploughman’s cheese. If there was about 30% – 40% more instead of Ham, it would have been 11 or 12 out of 10!

The Ham was good, perfectly acceptable, to get a 10 it has to be home-cooked. It is a big ask to get a 10 with the Ham!

This image displays a selection of cheese blocks at a farm shop or deli, specifically focusing on Haystack Cheddar. The blocks of cheddar are neatly wrapped in plastic, each with a label indicating the name "Haystack Cheddar" along with weight, price, and sell-by date.

The cheddar is a pale yellow color, characteristic of classic cheddar, with a firm, smooth texture visible through the wrapping. The display also includes other varieties of cheese in the background, some with a deeper yellow or orange hue, suggesting different types or aging levels. The cheeses are arranged on a wooden board, adding to the rustic and artisanal feel of the presentation.

8 – Bread: The bread was good, very nice indeed. Dropped a few points because it was, I suspect, par-baked. However, I like a good crusty crunch on my ploughman’s bread and this was crunchy and warm and bready and welcome…..

3 – Spread Butter, the right amount, slightly on the chilly side, but that was probably a function of the time of year. Alas, standard pub supplies – Litchfield’s packets. There was a range of butter for sale in the shop…. (hint, hint).

5 – Presentation: Impeccable! Look at it, it’s beautiful!

5 – Salad, etc. small but perfect, ideal! Just enough to provide a contrast with the cheese and add a bit of colour. Perfectly fresh and crisp and nicely arranged.

5 – Originality. In some respects, it might not be that original, but I really like how it was presented. There was plenty to eat and a nice balance of ingredients. The ploughman’s lunch is one of the few dishes that lends itself to being served on a lump of wood. Never too keen on Chips in tiny shopping trollies or Scallops in wheelie bins, etc.. but this worked. Plenty of space to get to work and nothing will fall off. Nice.

Food Total: 53

This image is a close-up of a portion of the Ploughman’s Lunch, emphasizing the fresh accompaniments, condiments, and bread. Here are the detailed components shown:

Bread – A crusty, fresh half-baguette, sliced open, perfect for pairing with cheese, ham, or condiments.
Pickled onions – Small, glossy, pickled onions served in a white bowl, offering a sharp, tangy flavor.
Piccalilli – A small jar filled with bright yellow piccalilli, a classic relish made of chunky pickled vegetables in a mustard sauce, adding a tangy and slightly spicy contrast.
Chutney – A small jar of chutney, possibly onion or fruit-based, providing a sweet and savory accompaniment.
Side salad – A fresh salad featuring slices of tomato, cucumber, yellow bell pepper, lettuce, and microgreens, adding a crisp, vibrant element to the dish.
The close-up captures the textures and colors vividly, showcasing the contrast between the rich condiments, fresh vegetables, and hearty bread, highlighting the essence of a traditional and wholesome Ploughman's Lunch.
Ploughman’s close-up of pickles and salad

Beverages

9 – Drinks: I had tea. Other drinks were had by other members of our little group, and the reports were of excellence. The tea was standard but rather nice. Extra points for the awesome tea cosy, something not seen in today’s world: surely we should be campaigning for these things. Bring back the tea cosy!

This image showcases a charming pink crocheted tea cosy in the shape of a pig, complete with a snout, floppy ears, and embroidered eyes. The tea cosy covers a teapot, creating a whimsical and cozy touch to the table setting at The Old Forge farm shop.

The cosy sits on a farm-themed tablecloth decorated with illustrations of chickens in various colors, adding to the rustic, country ambiance. In the background, there are items like a wicker napkin holder, a cup and saucer with a blue and white pattern, and a bottle of Folkington’s cloudy apple juice. This delightful setup combines warmth and character, perfect for a cozy meal or afternoon tea at the farm shop.

Drinks Total: 9


The Venue

10 – Service: Service was warm, welcoming and efficient. Top marks!

10 – Atmosphere: The shop and cafe are in a range of old barns. Order food in the shop part, and then there is a choice of eating outside or crossing the courtyard and into the other barn, where a very welcoming scene awaits. Rustic, yet comfortable with a touch of flair.

This image captures the rustic and cozy interior of The Old Forge farm shop in Berwick St James. The room has a warm, inviting ambiance with its exposed wooden beams, stone walls, and eclectic decor. The tables are covered in a whimsical tablecloth featuring colorful chicken illustrations, adding a touch of country charm.

String lights and triangular bunting are draped across the ceiling, creating a festive and homely atmosphere. Various tables are arranged with a mix of wooden and cushioned chairs, providing a relaxed seating arrangement. The walls are adorned with burlap coffee sacks, vintage posters, and decorative plants, enhancing the rustic theme. A large, faded wooden door adds character to the space, while a atumnal wreath  by the window adds a pop of color. This setting is perfect for enjoying a leisurely meal or tea, surrounded by rustic charm and a cozy atmosphere.
Inside Berwick St James the old forge

5 – Location: It has the dichotomy of being in the middle of nowhere and 4 minutes from the A303. The sound, feel, and smell, is of beautiful countryside, with no hint of a busy road a few miles away. Yet it is readily accessible from the almost permanent traffic jam at Winterbourne Stoke.

Berwick St James is in the best rural Wiltshire, and as fine as any Eric Ravilious painting. Big wide open fields, Beech hangers and woods lining the horizon – it is a big country here. The village is houses of Flint and brick and stone, topped with red tile or thatched in the long or short straw. There is still space in the settlement: Grass verges, hedges and occasional paddocks. The traffic is horses, bikes, hikers on a long-distance mission, and the occasional motorist – local or lost.

The last thing I would want is for me to make this place too popular, and at present, that is not a worry. However, if a few could divert from the busy route between the southwest and the Metropolis, it would help support this beautiful place and the village pub.

Note to city folk: you may or may not find this confusing. There is little formal parking at the place, but plenty locally. The roads have little to no traffic, and have places to park. Do not park over driveways, access places or on things that are alive (green or flowers). Do that, and you are OK. There are a few spaces on the little road up to the Old Forge on the left, but not many. Take your time, have a look about, there is no rush.

Some parking spaces can be found on the main road here and there. If someone asks you to move (unlikely) apologise and implore them for assistance on where to park, and it will probably be given in spades. You may need to park a few minutes walk away – this is OK. There are lots of options, but it may take a while to tune in and see them.

On this theme, this is exactly the sort of place that would make and beautiful stop-off if you are traversing the A303. Only 4 minutes away, and you can have a nice restful stop with great food, freshly made, served quickly. Or, you could have an average to crappy sandwich from a garage next to the road. Be brave, give it a go.

5 – Toilets: Impecable. Being a modern man, I noticed there is equipment available that is of little use to me as a gentleman. However, the supplies may be invaluable to my wife, and in the future, my daughter. I hope I have made it clear that I’m very impressed with what is available, and for whom, and that this is wonderful and worthy of acknowledgement. Bravo, more of this, please.

This image shows a thoughtfully equipped restroom, providing essential items for users. The walls are painted a calming aqua blue, creating a refreshing ambiance. Two black metal shelves, hanging by sturdy ropes, hold various toiletries and supplies:

Top shelf – Contains sanitary items, including a box of sanitary pads, an air freshener, and other hygiene products, ensuring convenience for female visitors.
Bottom shelf – Includes extra rolls of toilet paper, deodorants, and additional toiletries, ensuring users have everything they might need.
Decorative mirrors – Two circular mirrors with black frames are mounted on the wall, adding functionality and style to the setup.
Notice sign – A polite sign hangs between the mirrors, reminding users not to flush paper towels, sanitary products, tissues, or wipes, helping to maintain the restroom’s plumbing.
This well-stocked and welcoming restroom provides all essential items, showcasing attention to guests' needs and comfort.
The toilet has a range of sanitary products on hand for your convenience.

Venue total: 30


Total Score: 92


Editors note: This is probably the most unspoilt bit of traditional Wiltshire I have ever been to.

The roads are quiet to the point of desolation, the countryside rolling and wide. Away from the Army on Salisbury Plain and the expansion of the towns. Yet, it is only a few minutes away from the A303. Seriously consider dropping by for a break. Have a cuppa and a cake, a 5-minute stroll. It will do you a world of good.

I have also just found out about this publication – The Farm Shop Guide – that features this establishment. I might need to get a copy for research purposes.


This image shows a beautifully arranged Ploughman’s Lunch at The Old Forge, displayed on a wooden serving board. The classic British meal includes:

Two baguette halves – Fresh and crusty, perfect for pairing with the cheese and ham.
Thick slice of cheddar cheese – A creamy, yellow wedge of cheddar, a traditional element of the Ploughman’s.
Sliced ham – Generous, thin slices of pink ham, offering a mild, savory flavor.
Condiments and accompaniments:
A small jar of chutney, likely caramelized onion or fruit-based, for a sweet and tangy kick.
A small jar of piccalilli – a bright yellow relish made from pickled vegetables in a mustard sauce, adding a sharp, tangy note.
A small bowl of pickled onions, adding a sour punch.
Mixed side salad – Fresh lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, and yellow bell pepper with microgreens, bringing vibrant color and crunch.
Creamy coleslaw – A bowl of pinkish coleslaw with red cabbage, adding a creamy and crunchy texture.
The board rests on a farm-themed tablecloth featuring playful chicken illustrations, enhancing the rustic and homely presentation of this classic Ploughman’s Lunch.
ploughman’s flat lay the old forge, Berwick St James

This image captures a charming outdoor scene in front of a rustic brick building, likely part of a countryside café or farm shop. Two riders on horseback are stopped outside, with one woman interacting with the riders, possibly adjusting tack or giving instructions.

The horses, one white and the other black and white, stand calmly as they wait, and both riders are wearing helmets and casual riding attire. The ground is scattered with dry leaves, adding an autumnal touch. The building in the background has a tiled roof, ivy-covered walls, and an inviting setup with tables and chairs, suggesting it’s a popular stop for both locals and passersby, including those on horseback. This peaceful scene reflects the leisurely pace and close-to-nature lifestyle typical of rural settings.
Some local traffic – lunch on the go
This image shows a subtle roadside entrance to a farm shop and café. A small, understated sign on a wooden frame reads "The Old Forge" with the shop’s logo, blending into the rustic and natural surroundings.

Nearby, a black sandwich board on the ground boldly states “Farm Shop & Café,” making it more noticeable to passing vehicles. The area is surrounded by lush greenery, with mature trees displaying autumnal colors of orange and red. An overhead power pole and country road emphasize the rural location, while the grassy verge and unpaved roadside give it a quiet, countryside feel. This signage invites visitors to explore the hidden gem of the farm shop and café nearby.
Signs give hints about the location

Do you like a ploughman’s? Fancy doing a review? Drop me a line. It’s quite easy. You can pretty much work out the scoring regime from this review. Send me a few words and pictures, and you will be fully credited.

Do you make products that would feature in a Ploughman’s lunch? Then perhaps you might like to sponsor this website for a feature article for your product.

This image shows a well-stocked deli counter featuring an assortment of locally sourced pies, cheeses, and gourmet spreads.

Pastries and Pies – On the left side, there are various savory pastries, including pork pies, chicken and bacon pasties, and other homemade treats. Each item is labeled with ingredients, allergens, and pricing for both dine-in and takeaway options.

Cheeses – The counter displays a variety of cheeses, including blocks of Haystack Cheddar, Dorset Red (noted for its smoky flavor), and Snowdonia Cheese in black and red wax rounds, offering a selection of flavors for cheese enthusiasts.

Butter and Spreads – In the center, there are packs of salted and unsalted farmhouse butter, adding to the artisanal selection. Along the top shelf are jars of Gourmico pâtés and chutneys, perfect accompaniments for the cheeses.

The display is neatly organized on wooden boards, giving a rustic feel. The range of local and specialty products invites customers to enjoy the rich, savory flavors of this traditional deli.
Deli counter – I bought the Dorset Red after my lunch and it is delicious
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