Lianna Lawrence and Richard Simister, caterers and owners of ‘The Green Tea Van’, were looking for a peaceful, scenic spot to sell refreshments. They discovered Twywell Hills and Dales; a 55 hectare countryside site which takes its name from the abandoned quarry workings which created its undulating landscape and knew it was ideal. Most of the site has been allowed to revert back to nature and it is a haven for rare wildlife and very popular with dog walkers, cyclists, bird watchers, butterfl y photographers, ramblers and families. It is a beautiful place to visit and is popular as the car park is free.

Visitors are especially pleased that Lianna and Richard litter pick the car park and surrounding area each day. The Green Tea Van offers refreshments after your walk or ride, including hot and cold drinks, ice cream, bacon rolls and cakes. All cakes are homemade; specialities include rocky road, individual apple and blackberry muffi ns, rock cakes, cookies, brownies and fruit tea loaf muffi ns. Lianna and Richard are very proud to use local produce including Rossi’s ice cream, bacon from Geoff Towell and Sons Quality Butchers, Kettering, and rolls from High Street, Corby, and it cuts down on food miles as well.

Lianna and Richard have worked closely with The Rockingham Trust to make sure that the van enhances the sites facilities, without spoiling the beautiful surroundings The Green Tea Van uses few resources and customers are encouraged to recycle as much of the van’s litter as possible, using bins provided. Lianna and Richard wanted to use recyclable take away cups and, after much research, they found the ‘I’m a green cup’ compostable cup.

The Green Tea Van is now open at Twywell Hills and Dales weekdays from 10am to 6.30pm and weekends from 8.30am to 7pm. For details, please call 07904 236977