Barton le Clay - Olde Watermill Village

A couple of weeks ago us girlies went out on a trip to Barton le Clay.  Sounds like a seaside village doesn't it, but nope it's a small place smack in the middle of Bedfordshire of all places!  But on the web we found they had an Antiques Emporium so we had to go an investigate didn't we.

Twas a rather cloudy day as you can see, it was also a tad chilly too.  The buildings are converted from the old watermill. I bet it looks stunning on a sunnier day.

Once inside it is like stepping back in time to the Dickens era of quaint little cobbled streets.  My aunt and sister have obviously spotted something they liked.

Sadly this was not for sale!

Nor was this.  How wonderful would pots of herbs look displayed on it.

We loved how all the little shops had red and white awnings over them and the little old fashioned street lamps everywhere.

Wouldn't be a girlie trip without a spot of afternoon tea.  You could sit inside or out and they had patio heaters too.  The staff were really lovely and made you feel so welcome.

Break over we then walked up here.

Which led us to this beautiful garden centre which is set around the original Mill Pond.  The sun had come out too.  There is also a restaurant up here with an outside area looking over the pond.

All the plants were displayed on old fashioned wooden market stalls with the red and white canopies. 

At the far end of the garden centre I could see what we had originally come here for, antiques.  I quickened my pace in anticipation of the delights inside.

We were not dissapointed.  It is split over two levels.  This is part of the ground floor.  Just look at all that shabby chicness!

In a room off the back there were oodles of vintage clothing, I was rather taken with this frock, the pink one that is, but would have to lose rather a lot of weight overnight to get into it, bugger!

More clothing and some kids toys at the back.

There is always a beautiful chandelier

Back outside, they've even thought of the kiddies with this amazing playground.

Complete with it's own Pirate Ship!

For those of you who want more info you can go to their website at Olde Watermill.  There is also a good website for the restaurant which is Haydens Restaurant where you can view the latest menus.

Hope you enjoyed our little outing.x