June has arrived and we’re firmly settling into the rhythm of summer here at Hartley. Before looking ahead, I just wanted to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us for our recent Open Farm Day. It’s always one of the highlights of the year for us —...

There’s been no shortage of stories in the news recently about the pressure hospitality is under. I’m keen not to turn this journal into a depressing list of reasons why — no one needs that at this time of year. But it has got me thinking. Hospitality has always faced...

January has a habit of arriving with a lot of noise. New rules. New targets. New versions of ourselves we’re apparently supposed to become overnight. If your inbox looks anything like mine, it’s full of big promises and bigger pressure — all delivered at a time of...

I think the C word was first uttered around May this year. Christmas is a huge part of our calendar, and as the saying goes, you’ve got to make hay while the sun shines — though I do often wish our business wasn’t quite so dependent on it. Over the years, we’ve had...

Autumn has well and truly arrived. Despite the inevitable rain and blustery days, I’ve always loved the distinct seasons we get here in England. By the time one is drawing to a close, I’m ready to move on to the next — ready for a change in pace, whatever that might...