Darren and Sarah’s new kitchen, Thorney in Peterborough

We were greeted on arrival with welcoming smiles from the hosts and a head butt in the nuts by the very friendly dog Hector. The new kitchen upgrade has made a world of difference. With the array of freshly packets of snacks presented beautifully. The host also included some fresh herbs, but was unsure what to do with them. I'm sure the selection of new cookbooks will help. The fantastic oven and hob looked immaculately clean like it had never been used. I think the intention maybe to reduce cleaning by keeping it unused. The hosts and guests all enjoyed themselves, the atmosphere was excellent. Will have a return visit soon

We entered via the discreet rear entrance where we were greeted by a rather chatty Gareth Southgate. We were full of anticipation to see this long-awaited revamp and were pleasantly surprised with results. My eyes were instantly drawn to the island’s centre piece - an impressive spinning baskets full of fresh herbs and produce - an absolute must for every kitchen! Fizzy drinks were thrust upon us which made me feel quite giddy about the whole experience. An impressive array of finger nibbles were on offer with the star of the show being some giant seedless grapes which became quite the talking point. I couldn’t resist having a rummage through the new soft-close drawers and was blown away by the 3 bin compartments for all varieties of recyclables. Overall an impressive, well thought out upgrade that will, undoubtedly, improve family gatherings forever more! We look forward to future visits.

A much improved upgrade on previous visits. The modernised amenities are a compelling advert for a productive kitchen, yet on this occasion the hostesses expertise at unpacking Kipling Fondant Fancies and Mini Rolls had everyone holding their breath. Skills. We’re still talking about the amazing spinning basket thing on the island - worth the entrance fee alone - and can’t wait to go back and try the ‘Bitten sweet potato’ with the ‘Staffy Nuts in Hollanaise sauce’, part of the gourmet menu. Children are well catered for, with a plentiful supply of high-sugar content sweets including some of their favourite e-numbers like E330, E296 and additional starch and acidity regulators. Once nourished the little ones can release some of that sugar-rush playing some favourite after dinner games with the house pet Hector, like ‘Where’s Hector going to poop’, ‘Put the poop on your sister’ and ‘Hectors got my finger’. All-in-all this is a welcome addition to the thriving gourmet scene in and around Thorney.