When Life Gives You Lemons...

How a dash of inspiration and local support is turning Severndroog Castle into a summer destination.

At Good Food in Greenwich, we believe that sustainability isn't just about the environment—it’s about building a resilient, thriving local economy where small businesses have the tools to flourish.

This month, we are shining a spotlight on the charming cafe at Severndroog Castle, a hidden gem that is proving exactly what can happen when community spirit meets expert mentorship.

From Vision to Venue

Running a cafe is no small feat, especially when starting from scratch. Two years ago, the team at Severndroog took on the challenge of managing their on-site cafe. Despite having little prior experience in the hospitality industry, they were fueled by a passion for the castle and its visitors.

Through their partnership with the Greenwich Cooperative Development Agency (GCDA) and signing the Good Food in Greenwich charter, the cafe received more than just advice—they received a roadmap to success. A strategic grant allowed them to invest in professional-grade equipment, including a new freezer, hand blender, and soup kettle.

The "Secret Ingredient": Expert Support

Behind every great local charity or business is a network of support. Claire Pritchard and the GCDA team have been instrumental in this journey. By providing hands-on training and business guidance, they helped the cafe expand its menu and operational capacity.

Zhanna, the manager for Severndroog Castle charity cafe, said: "I am very grateful to Claire for fresh ideas and support, and to Brian, who taught me to prepare new dishes and who inspires me to improve the cafe’s menu."

The impact was immediate. Last winter, visitors warmed up with hearty, homemade soups made possible by the new equipment. But as the seasons shifted, a new challenge emerged: how to keep the momentum going through the summer months?

Turning Lemons into "Castle Lemonade"

During a recent food support meeting, Claire offered a simple yet brilliant suggestion: Homemade Castle Lemonade. It was the perfect fit for a sustainable city initiative—fresh, simple, and far more profitable than mass-produced alternatives.

Today, visitors to the castle can be found cooling off with a glass of this signature citrus brew. It’s a testament to the power of taking a simple idea and, with the right support, turning it into a thriving part of the business.

Visit the Castle: Next time you are near Severndroog, stop by for a glass of Castle Lemonade. By supporting them, you are supporting a charity committed to the Good Food in Greenwich charter and a more sustainable local food system.

Good Food in Greenwich is part of the Sustainable Cities movement. Together, we are making Greenwich a better place to eat, live, and work.