Where It All Started

From the time I was a little girl, surrounded by two Nannas who were professional cooks, I dreamed of having a tearoom of my own. ‘Coffee mornings’ were never just about tea and cake — they were about pausing, sharing, and planning the day together. My maternal Nanna was a pastry cook, always ready with cakes, pies, and puddings for every occasion. My mum, affectionately known by her grandchildren as Nanny Cakey, carried on that tradition of baking and fostering the feeling of belonging.

Alongside their culinary talents, both my Nan and Mum were phenomenal knitters. They created everything from delicate baby layettes — complete with tiny vests — to intricate Fair isle jumpers for my dad, and complex, cable filled aran sweaters for sailing friends. Their skill and creativity showed me how making something by hand could be both practical and deeply meaningful. These lived experiences of food, family, craft, and conversation shaped my vision: a place where everyone feels welcome, whether they come for a slice of cake, a pot of tea, for time to sit and create, or simply the comfort of good company. 

Our story so far: When I found the premises for A Good Yarn around Easter, everything seemed to fall into place. By July, all the stars aligned — within a week I had signed the lease, and 5 Bay Tree Walk was mine. My plan was to open in time for the new school year, but the Wickham Music Festival was fast approaching. The advice I received was, “…and you’d be foolish to miss it…” — and it was good advice.  What followed was a whirlwind of two frantic weeks of cleaning, decorating, and building furniture to be ready in time for 31st July. It was exhausting, exhilarating, and unforgettable — the true scramble of turning a dream into reality. Since then, life has been a blur of learning the ropes of running both a tearoom and a yarn shop! 

We achieved a 5‑Star Environmental Health rating and began planning workshops and classes. Along the way, I’ve met incredible people: a lady with memory issues who rediscovered knitting when given yarn and needles; crafters with large followings who’ve brought their groups to support the shop; and an experienced knitter who has taken me under her wing to help develop courses and classes, make samples and share her extensive knowledge of yarn retail.  Our menu remains simple but thoughtful — croissants, toast, jacket potatoes, sandwiches, cakes, and sweet treats, all freshly prepared, alongside coffees, teas, hot chocolate, and cold drinks. More importantly, the tearoom has become a place where people gather, connect, and feel at home, whether they come for craft or simply for comfort.

The journey so far has been exhausting, but I have loved every moment of it! It has been joyful, and full of surprises — and it’s only just beginning. With your support, A Good Yarn is growing into a place where creativity, comfort, and community thrive together.