Hambleton Bakery, 17 Gaol St, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 6AL
www.hambletonbakery.co.uk/pages/visit-us
Nestled on Oakham's bustling Gaol Street, amidst the charming facades and independent shops, sits Hambleton Bakery. Stepping inside is like stepping back in time, with the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the air and shelves laden with golden loaves, crusty pastries, and delectable cakes. But behind this quaint bakery lies a fascinating story of humble beginnings, passionate dedication, and an unwavering commitment to quality that has seen it blossom into Rutland's beloved bread empire.
It began in 2008, in the idyllic village of Exton, nestled within the rolling hills of Rutland. Julian Carter and Tim Hart, driven by a shared passion for good bread, opened the doors to a small, unassuming bakery. Their focus was simple: to bake sourdough and other breads using traditional methods and the finest local ingredients. Word of their exceptional craftsmanship spread quickly, and soon, the aroma of their sourdough drew in locals and visitors alike, forming a loyal following for their crusty creations.
As demand grew, so did the ambition of the two bakers. In 2010, they opened their first shop in Oakham, bringing their rustic loaves and pastries to the heart of the county town. This marked the start of an exciting expansion, with new shops springing up in market towns across the Midlands. From Stamford and Market Harborough to Nottingham and West Bridgford, the Hambleton Bakery flag began to wave proudly, bringing a taste of Exton's artisanal magic to each new location.
But Hambleton Bakery is more than just a chain of successful bakeries. It's a testament to the power of passion and commitment. Julian and Tim remain deeply involved in the day-to-day operations, ensuring that every loaf, every pastry, and every cake is handcrafted with the same care and attention to detail as those first baked in Exton. They source their ingredients locally whenever possible, supporting Rutland's farmers and producers, and their sourdough starter, lovingly named "Fred," has become a symbol of their dedication to time-honoured traditions.
And while their breads, from the perfectly tangy sourdough to the hearty whole wheat, are a constant source of delight, Hambleton Bakery has another ace up its sleeve: the Rutland Pippin. This delectable creation is a far cry from its Melton Mowbray cousin. Imagine a buttery, flaky pastry encasing a juicy mix of slow-cooked Rutland pork, apples, and herbs, all seasoned to perfection. The sweet and savoury dance in your mouth with every bite, and the melt-in-your-mouth pastry is a revelation. So, if you're looking for a taste of Rutland's soul, skip the mass-produced pork pies and seek out the Rutland Pippin – a true testament to Hambleton Bakery's innovative spirit and unwavering commitment to local flavours.
Today, Hambleton Bakery stands as a beacon of artisanal excellence in the heart of the Midlands. From its humble beginnings in Exton to its thriving shops across the region, it's a reminder that passion, dedication, and a love for good bread can create something truly special. So, next time you find yourself in Oakham, or any of the towns graced by a Hambleton Bakery, step inside, soak in the aroma of freshly baked goodness, and savour a slice of Rutland's bread empire. You might just discover your new favourite loaf – or, perhaps, a Rutland Pippin that will redefine your pork pie expectations forever.
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