by Kyle Hassel | Jun 11, 2019 | Uncategorized
2019 – Another Win for Gin?
Ten years ago, two men by the names of Fairfax Hall and Sam Galsworthy opened London’s first traditional copper distillery since 1820. This endeavour was the result of a successful legal battle, in which the two men were granted the first small-scale distilling license in 200 years. It was this quaint distillery which brought Sipsmith gin into the world, an independent brand which would lead the charge in a gin revolution. Within a decade, most of the UK had raided Granny’s drinks cabinet in search of their new favourite spirit.
Gin’s popularity really bloomed in 2018 – sales of the drink had tripled since Sipsmith’s debut in 2009, with more gin sold last year than in 2014 and 2015 combined! The Morning Advertiser reported a total of more than 66 million bottles sold, whilst pubs, bars and restaurants saw a 56% increase in gin sales. The growth hasn’t stopped there, however! Once an underdog of the alcohol trade, gin has fought to become the UK’s second most popular spirit (behind vodka). In recent months, the Wine and Spirit Trade Association have recorded total gin sales surpassing £2 billion.
So, what is it about gin that’s fuelling its enduring popularity? Traders have attributed the recent boom in sales to 2018’s infamous summer heatwave, with many folks searching for a cooling, refreshing beverage that’s light on the calories. Another reason for its success leads us back to Sipsmith’s launch in 2009. The endearing story of the founders fighting to produce craft gin on a small scale contributes to the character of the brand, separating it from mass-produced corporate brands. Many independent distilleries would follow the path paved by Sam and Fairfax, with the UK seeing its number of distilleries increasing from 152 to 315 between 2012 and 2017. Many of the brands that emerged from this increase began experimenting with their gins, using a wide range of botanicals and flavourings to keep their market contributions varied and exciting.
Here at the Boathouse, we really couldn’t pass up an opportunity to get ‘gin’ on the action. The instillation of our downstairs bar in 2017 brought with it a range of over 65 craft gins. Whilst that may seem like an intimidating number to any casual gin drinker, our team have created a handy ‘Gin Passport’ to lead customers through our assortment of dry, pink and flavoured gins. The passport contains a page for 30 of our most popular gins, and when you try one we’ll stamp that page for you. Once you’ve collected 30 stamps, you’ll receive a bottle of your favourite gin for free! For more information on how to sign up for a passport, ask at our bar or contact us as info@theboathouseupton.co.uk. For now, here are five of our favourite craft gins from the passport.
- Sipsmith Lemon Drizzle (40.4% abv)
It seems only right to begin with the brand that started it all. Sipsmith’s Lemon Drizzle uses fresh lemon for a zesty, warming zing with an underlying hint of vanilla.
- Malfy Blood Orange (41% abv)
Malfy’s Blood Orange uses a twist of bitter-sweet Sicilian blood oranges to provide an intense, refreshing sweetness, which is balanced by hints of vanilla and tart grapefruit.
- Chase Sloe and Mulberry (29.1% abv)
Chase hand-picks sloe and mulberries and ages them in oak for a year to gain a sweet and syrupy liqueur with notes of figs, dates, prunes and redcurrants.
- J. J. Whitley Elderflower (38.6% abv)
This handcrafted gin is dominated by the essence of elderflower, aided by orange blossom, honey and fresh green grass.
- Gin Mare (42.7%)
This Mediterranean blend is distilled from olives, thyme, rosemary and basil. A perfect compliment to our extensive tapas menu… if we do say so ourselves!
With such an extensive and ever-growing collection of gins just waiting to be tried, there’s no time like the present to call in and join us for a glass… or three! Let’s drink to another great summer for gin!
by Kyle Hassel | Mar 15, 2019 | Uncategorized
A Bash at the Boathouse
A Quick Look at Functions & Room Hire in 2019
By Will Hewlett (food blogger and commis chef)
February was a good month for weather in Upton-upon-Severn. With early spring temperatures reaching record highs in the UK, many are glad to have the worst of winter behind them. Some folks are already ditching their coats and taking their first steps into the beer gardens. Not wanting to feel left out, I headed up to our balcony with a bottle of Abbot Ale in hand and soaked in the first of the spring rays. In the distance, the evening sun was reluctantly slipping behind the Malvern hills, tinting the landscape a rich marmalade colour. Across the river, I spotted a lone tree. Pink blossom was fluttering away from its branches like confetti…
If good weather wasn’t enough of a reason to celebrate, the coming months also bring the Boathouse team into one of our favourite periods – wedding season! Our bespoke wedding packages have attracted guests from all over, and the Boathouse team is always working to expand upon our current features and services. If you’d like more information on how we can help craft your dream wedding, a detailed walk-through of our wedding packages can be found in our December blog. However, if you’d like to experience our venue first hand, why not come along to our wedding fayre on 24th March? Here you’ll be introduced to our events team, who will talk you through our range of layouts, table settings and schedules. You will also be able to meet an incredible range of local suppliers including florists, jewellers, photographers, cake makers and musicians!
Weddings aren’t the only spice in the Boathouse’s cupboard, however! We’re also keen on hosting a variety of functions and themed events. With winter’s back finally turning on us, there hasn’t been a better time to visit the Boathouse – party-goers can make the most of our balcony and river terrace! Our venue has been home to all manner of celebrations – including birthdays, work parties, christenings and anniversaries – which we cater for with a varied selection of party packages. These packages include tapas or carvery-style buffets, grazing board selections and our popular King’s Tapas, a mezze-style set menu that can be personalised to suite your tastes.
Our themed events have ranged from masquerade balls, tiki nights, Rat-Pack themed outings and evenings with the Blues Brothers. We encourage live entertainment during these events, as there’s no better way to enhance the atmosphere! We’ve had well-reputed tribute acts bantering with the crowd whilst playing party favourites, been roasted by comedians and have even hosted Warble’s Mariachi Mexteca Band (famous for appearing as the face of Doritos in the UK)! After the encore, our in-house DJ will take the reigns and keep you moving into the late hours of the night.
If you’re interested in booking a function with us, or if you’ve got any questions on venue hire that you’d like to send our way, then feel free to get in touch via the contact details provided at
www.theboathouseupton.co.uk. We look forward to hearing from you!
by Kyle Hassel | Jan 15, 2019 | Uncategorized
Benefits of a Mediterranean Diet
By Will Hewlett (Food blogger and commis chef at The Boathouse)
Can you believe it? The curtain’s only just risen on 2019 and the January blues band is already in full swing. As the new year fires up, I’m still clinging to the Christmas season. My January routine goes something like this – I stare into my empty fridge a couple of times a day, wondering what happened to the turkey, cheeses, mince pies and chipotle sausages. It seems like just yesterday I couldn’t shut the fridge door properly because of the lorry-load of food that was crammed in there. Sure, it may seem like a mystery, but let’s be honest here. It wouldn’t take Columbo to figure out where all that food went!
The New Year is a time where many see fit to make changes to their lifestyle. If, like me, you are searching for a way to re-adjust your eating habits after some Christmas feasting, the thought of wading through diet plans may seem a little intimidating. However, the team here at The Boathouse Upton may have a solution for those January blues! Why not consider a Mediterranean diet?
The Mediterranean diet’s positive impact on health is well documented across the internet, so I won’t rattle on for too long about it here. If this blog entry attracts you to the idea of a Mediterranean diet, I’ll throw in a few useful links at the end that you can explore at your leisure. For now, I’ll just gloss over a few reasons why many people are taking to these lifestyle habits.
Many people promote the Mediterranean diet for the simple reason that there is no real Mediterranean diet. Rather than forcing you to stick to a rigorous day-by-day plan, the diet operates from a food pyramid with basic ingredients that can be adjusted to suit you and your palate. Here is a list of these components, provided by the BBC Good Food website:
* Fruit and vegetables
* Wholegrain food variants (including pasta, bread and brown rice)
* Beans
* Fish
* White meats
* Dairy (in small amounts to be enjoyed once or twice weekly)
The Mediterranean food pyramid limits red meats, sugary and processed foods to special occasions only. This allows for potentially harmful saturated and trans-fats to be substituted with healthy fats such as mono-unsaturated fat (found in olive oil) and poly-unsaturated fats (found in assorted nuts, seeds and oily fish).
The Mediterranean diet’s fresh, non-processed components bring with them a variety of proven health benefits for both body and mind. In 2008, the NHS reported that diets rich in fresh fruits, vegetables and fish offer protection against conditions such as heart disease, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. These findings were the result of several studies conducted by Dr Francesco Sofi and the University of Florence, examining over 1.5 million subjects worldwide. The Health website reported a separate study, finding that women who followed a Mediterranean diet were 25% less likely to develop heart disease.
These health benefits are partially down to the diet’s inclusion of omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to help moderate blood pressure and prevent blood clots. However, I would regret not mentioning the importance of olive oil in a Mediterranean diet! Antioxidants contained within olive oil have been known to prevent mental decline, and its anti-inflammatory effects are thought to help fight oxidative damage linked to ageing. The University Health News website reported that those who followed a similar diet had a 40% reduced risk of cognitive impairment, and suggested that
compounds found in olive oil may even help to preserve bone density.
Although many health outlets praise olive oil for its benefits, the Dr Axe website suggests that those looking to pursue a Mediterranean diet should seek out ‘extra virgin’ olive oil in shops. This is due to some olive oil products being harvested in such a way that removes many of their nutrients. The article’s author Jillian Levy also suggests that a person should consume one-to-four tablespoons of olive oil a day within the diet in order to fully experience its benefits.
Well, adopting a Mediterranean diet certainly seems fruitful. It’s a relaxed diet plan that inspires creativity whilst promoting good health, and the benefits don’t stop there! According to the Harvard Health Publishing blog, getting into the Mediterranean diet later in life isn’t a problem. The blog reported a 2013 study, showing that middle-aged women who adopted the diet were 40% more likely to reach later life without severe health issues. I’d like to point out that the blog’s author, Heidi Godman, includes a number of useful DIY tips for those looking to ease themselves into the diet.
If you think that adopting a Mediterranean diet seems like an appealing way to improve your 2019, or even if you’d like a taster before you dive in, then we at The Boathouse Upton invite you to take a look at our extensive tapas menu. Our menu is heavily inspired by the Mediterranean diet and can be found on our website. In many Mediterranean countries, it’s common for meals to be enjoyed with family, friends and a glass of red wine. That being said, why not call in to our restaurant with some good company and experience a slice of the Mediterranean diet for yourself?
Below are some of the links I used whilst researching for this blog. Happy eating, and I hope you have a great 2019!
* Why are Mediterranean Diets So Healthy? by Victoria Taylor – BBC Good Food
* Benefits of Mediterranean Diet – NHS
* 7 Health Benefits of a Mediterranean Diet – Health
* 6 Major Benefits of the Mediterranean Diet – University Health News * 9 Major Benefits of the Mediterranean Diet (+ the Retracted Study Controversy) by Jillian Levy – Dr Axe * Adopt a Mediterranean Diet Now for Better Health Later by Heidi Godman – Harvard Health Publishing
by Kyle Hassel | Dec 2, 2018 | Uncategorized
We are excited to introduce our new wedding brochure for 2019 including packages and menu options for unique, bespoke weddings at our stunning riverside venue. Here is a sneak peak at what we have to offer here at The Boathouse.
We believe a congratulations is in order! Now it’s time to plan your perfect day.
Host a wedding alongside us, at our unique, stunning venue situated on the River Severn.
We can help you create the wedding of your dreams!
Our venue is a family run business who already own a well established wedding and function caterers and been involved in hospitality for over 15 years, the dedication and professionalism of our friendly and well trained team who take complete pride in making sure your special day will be one to remember and ensure that every requirement will be fulfilled with a high standard of service.
Our events manager will be at hand 24 hours a day prior to the big day, and could answer any questions you may have whilst also taking the pressure off you during the busy build up.
We have 2 floors of space to offer each with their own unique style, our ground floor has a gin and cocktail bar with a cosy lounge area and its own river terrace,
Our first floor dining room has 2 balcony areas with stunning views of the River Severn and the malvern hills (seats up to 22). Both floors have easy access toilets,
with two spacious bars both fully stocked with delicious craft ales, the best wine around, a wide range of spirits, well known draft lager and cider and over 60 gins to taste!
Your privacy is important to us which is why the Boathouse is only available to hire on an exclusive-use basis.
THE PERFECT VENUE FOR EVERY SEASON: WITH EXCEPTIONAL VIEWS OF THE RIVER SEVERN AND THE MALVERN HILLS
WEDDING PACKAGES
Standard Package
FULL USE OF BOTH FLOORS AND RIVER TERRACE
WELCOME DRINKS
A CHOICE FROM A 3 COURSE MEAL OR 11 DISH TAPAS
A GLASS OF SPARKLING WINE PER GUEST
1 BOTTLE OF WINE PER 4 GUEST
ROOM DECORATING
LINEN AND CHAIR COVER HIRE
EVENING RECEPTION BUFFET
DJ HIRE
CAKE KNIFE
50 GUESTS £3425
ADDITIONAL GUESTS £40.00 PER PERSON
Premium package
FULL USE OF BOTH FLOORS AND RIVER TERRACE
WELCOME DRINKS AND CANAPES
A CHOICE FROM A 4 COURSE MEAL OR 11 DISH TAPAS
A GLASS OF CHAMPAGNE PER GUEST FOR TOAST
HALF BOTTLE OF WINE PER GUEST
ROOM DECORATING
TABLE LINEN, NAPKIN LINEN AND CHAIR COVER HIRE
EVENING RECEPTION BUFFET
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND DJ HIRE
CAKE KNIFE
RED CARPET
50 GUESTS £4450
ADDITIONAL GUEST £50.00 PER PERSON
WEDDING BREAKFAST
Menu one
Starters
Chicken liver pate with caramelised onion marmalade and home baked bread
Roasted tomato and basil soup (v)
Sweet melon and Parma ham served with Rocket and balsamic
Main courses
Roasted chicken breast with a creamy dolcelatte cheese and pancetta sauce served with baby new potatoes
Blade of beef slow cooked with gratin potatoes and horseradish jus
Scottish filet of salmon with a lemon and dill sauce scattered with baby prawns
Stuffed peppers with Moroccan couscous and a pea and feta sauce (v)
Mushroom, Cranberry and brie wellington (v)
Dessert
Dark chocolate tart served with red fruits
Homemade white chocolate profiteroles
Amaretto panna cotta
(All main courses are served with seasonal vegetables)
For private parties and Weddings we also offer a design your own menu service, ask one of our team for more details
WEDDING BREAKFAST
Menu Two
Starters
Spiced butternut squash & sweet potato soup (v)
Salmon fish cakes with lime wedges and rocket salad
Goats cheese and beetroot filo tart (v)
Main courses
Roast rump of lamb served with thyme and white wine sauce and saffron infused potatoes
Breast of chicken with a wild mushroom and tarragon sauce served with potato Gratin
Sea bream fillets served with a champagne and lemon sauce with fresh roasted vegetables
Stuffed Aubergine with baby artichokes and baby new potatoes
Dessert
Mini passion fruit pavlova
Raspberry and white chocolate cheese cake
Chocolate and Cointreau mousse with red berries
(All main courses are served with seasonal vegetables)
For private parties and Weddings we also offer a design your own menu service, Ask one of our team for more details
WEDDING BREAKFAST
Menu Three
Starters
Pea and mint soup with Crème fraiche (v)
Cornish crab and dill mousse with samphire and tomato concasse
Goats cheese and asparagus bruschetta with sweet balsamic
Main courses
Slow roasted sirloin of beef with braised red cabbage, sweet roasted garlic and potato Gratin
Lamb shoulder with roasted vine tomatoes and red wine jus served with sweet potato Gratin
Grilled seabass with lemon and garlic served with samphire and pan fried Mediterranean vegetables
Stuffed Portobello mushrooms with pistachios and creamed leeks (v)
Desserts
Limoncello cheesecake
Baileys and white chocolate tart
Strawberry and passion fruit panna cotta
(All main courses are served with seasonal vegetables)
WEDDING BREAKFAST
Menu Four
Starters
Baked whole Camembert with rosemary and garlic served with ciabatta bread (v)
Tuna Carpaccio with beetroot pesto and rocket salad
Classic Greek salad with feta cheese and olives (v)
Pumpkin and sweet potato soup (v)
Main courses
Braised rump of lamb with thyme and white wine sauce served with potato gratin and pea and mint puree
Rainbow trout with a butter and almond sauce served with potato gratin
Homemade gnocchi with a parmesan, spinach and wild mushroom sauce (v)
Breast of chicken slow cooked in red wine with a rich basil and chorizo sauce
Why not go for Tapas?
Tapas Menu One
Each guest will receive their share of each of the following dishes
Hummus and Tzatziki with freshly baked bread
Pan fried mushrooms in lemon and garlic
Classic Greek salad
Oven baked halloumi with roasted peppers and sundried tomatoes
Kings prawns saute with truffle oil and chorizo
Meatballs with tomato and basil salsa
Piri Piri chicken
Chicken strips flambe in vodka and smoked paprika in a creamy tarragon sauce
Dessert
A selection of mini pastries, individual cheesecake, chocolate truffles and fresh fruits served on slate platters
Tapas Menu Two
Beetroot hummus and pesto served with olives and freshly baked bread
Shredded parmesan and sun dried tomato mixed leaf salad
BBQ feta cheese with oregano and thyme
Baby chorizo with roasted vegetables
Pan fried mushrooms in garlic and lemon
Deep fried Calamari with chilli mayo dip
Pan seared cod cheeks with chilli and grapefruit salsa
Pork Gyros skewers with quinoa salad
Patatas Bravas
Chicken strips flambe in vodka
Desserts tapas available for extra £5pp
Vegetarian Tapas
Selection of dips and freshly baked bread
Deep fried halloumi
Greek salad
Pan fried mushrooms in garlic and lemon
Vegetable dumplings with chilli jam
Spinach and feta filo parcels
Pearl couscous
Stuffed vine leaves with pine nuts
Aubergine and red onion tagine
Pearl couscous
where to find us?
The Boathouse is situated in the small town of Upton Upon Severn outside the border of Worcestershire, surrounding areas such as Cotswolds, Malvern and Hereford.
With access of the M5 and M50 nearby makes it that little bit easier to travel to from all directions.
Contact us
The Boathouse, waterside, Upton Upon Severn Worcestershire, WR8 0HG
Email us directly to info@theboathouseupton.co.uk
Call us on 01684438161
Thank you for considering the BoatHouse as a venue for your special day.
by Kyle Hassel | Jun 5, 2018 | Uncategorized
It looks like a busy summer ahead here at The Boathouse Upton with lots of events, tasting evenings and festivals planned for the coming months. Here is just a taster of whats on offer –
Gin tasting – 21st June
Try a selection of 5 craft gins paired with 5 of our seasonal special tapas dishes for only £25pp. We also provide private group tastings from our ground floor Gin bar or at your home! ask one of our team for details
Upton Jazz festival 22nd June – 24th June
Here at the Boathouse we will be serving food as normal throughout the festival and will also have live Jazz bands performing during the afternoon on the Saturday and Sunday of the festival.Also worth a mention is our outside Real Ale bar , come and give it a try!
Champagne tasting – 5th July
Come and try a selection of sparkling wines and Champagnes in our ‘blind tasting’ can you tell your Champagne from your Cava….
Moroccan Night – 12th July
A selection of 8 authentic Moroccan tapas dishes using rare herbs and spices to create stunning flavours, vegetarian options available
Upton Blues Festival 19th – 22nd July
Food will be served from 9am – 7pm daily throughout the festival with live music every evening from 9pm and bands performing all day on Sunday.
Greek Night – 17th August
A 12 dish Greek feast with our amazing mezze consisting of all your favourite Greek delights!
For more information or to book for one of our events contact one of our team now 01684438161
