Orford, a picturesque pocket of the Suffolk coast, has a storied and rather bizarre history. It is home to an impeccably preserved medieval castle built by Henry II to see off dissenting barons, and for much of the 20th century the rugged seafront was sealed off and used as a top-secret military testing site, prompting rumours about death rays and UFO sightings. Now, the area may have another claim to fame, as home of the UK's most expensive mince pie.
In the area's main village, filled with picture-book houses and dainty walkways, lies a bold, bright pink building: the Pump Street bakery. Six mince pies at the cafe will set you back £25 - just over £4 each. Expectations for the Christmas treat are sky-high.
Getting to the isolated village is no easy feat, with the nearest railway station a 25-minute drive away. Those hoping to skip the journey can opt for a home delivery, which will set you back another £8.
Are they worth the pounds and the mileage? When the Guardian arrived in the village at noon on Thursday, they were already sold out for the day. However, local people who had tried them offered plenty of praise.
Denne historien er fra November 23, 2024-utgaven av The Guardian.
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Denne historien er fra November 23, 2024-utgaven av The Guardian.
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