our history
For centuries watercress grew wild in the area’s streams and ditches. Entrepreneurial locals started to grow it commercially with the coming of the railway in 1865. Our cress beds here at Ladycroft were built by local farmer Mr. Curtis in about 1890 and have been carefully tended ever since.
West Lea started with an outside larder and an honesty box selling watercress only. Soups, scones, sausages and most importantly trout followed until the shop has grown over the years into what you see today.
Our watercress beds sustain a unique habitat for wildlife. With a little luck, you'll spot herons, egrets, kingfishers and our resident family of swans.
