NEW tourist attractions are springing up all the time. One we recently discovered was a lavender and herb farm on the edge of the Yorkshire Wolds.

Naturally there was a caf which was the focus of our visit. From now till the end of October, the caf will be open from 10am to 4pm.

The visitors' shop and caf share facilities. Despite dull weather, the self-service caf was full when we arrived mid afternoon. As tables were vacated they were quickly cleared. Aerial photographs on the walls show the development of this venture.

Each table had its own artificial flowers on the menu. The Reverend Susan has suggested that I stop commenting on spelling mistakes so...

We noted spring vegetable soup at £1 or £1.55 with a roll and butter. Jacket potatoes were available and Mediterranean paninis cost £3.99. Freshly made sandwiches with side salad, coleslaw and potato crisps were priced at £3.50.

Ann selected a fruit scone with butter and jam (£1.20), while I tried one which I think was lavender flavoured (£1). You might wonder about my uncertainty but we were sitting beside a trellis divide which was decorated with bunches of lavender. So were my senses reacting to taste or smell?

Both scones were on the dry side. There were numerous cakes and pies on offer. Ann opted for a piece of caramelised apple tart and my choice was carrot cake. At £1.50, each was tasty and might have benefited from some cream but not the UHT variety provided with each helping.

Our tea cost £1.80 a pot for two. Pity there was no fresh milk. Coffee started at £1.20. Ann was pleased with the quality and size of the serviettes. None of those flimsy little squares at this venue.

Wheelchair access was excellent with a board walk from the car park to the caf and to a limited extent round the lavender beds. The toilets were immaculately clean and brightly painted (in lavender, of course).

On a fine day the colours and scent from the lavender and herb beds that extend over 12 acres would make for a pleasant stroll.

Updated: 09:02 Saturday, September 11, 2004