You gotta love China Blue. Its vibrant exterior has been a major part of the street furniture of Totnes for more than twenty years. The refuge of many a beleaguered mum on a rainy day, it’s the largest ceramics studio in the south-west and Devon’s best-known hotspot to meet with other buggy-bothered mums while the kids paint a bit of pottery and you get a breather.

But hey, have you checked out the cafe recently? Their recent tempting insta-posts of the trendy new menu got me thinking it was high time for a return – Prosecco afternoon teas, avocado on toast, smoothie and nourish bowls, deli boards and eggs on sourdough. All the greats!

It turns out there’s a new generation of the China Blue family, with owner Felicity now at the helm, who has brought in a new name, a new menu and a new chef and a pastry chef, both female foodies with a love of local. So, now those tempting gooey brownies and muffins calling your name on the deli counter are all made on site, using local ingredients, along with party cakes for special occasions. Everything is homemade, and not just the bakes and sausage rolls but even the jams and ketchup. Impressive.

The cafe itself is as cool and eclectic as ever with a good range of seating to suit all comers, whether you want to perch with a coffee and laptop, or stay awhile. There’s a pretty courtyard and pergola outside, filled with large urns and rambling plants, so peaceful it belies its convenient Station Road location – just off Totnes High Street, with parking out front. Ideal if you’re coming with older rellies or can’t face the schlep into town.

Once you’ve scoffed and quaffed, the store is a real Aladdin’s Cave, with countless ideas for gifts, handmade ceramics, loads of homeware and a festive destination in the run-up to Christmas.

Now, my kids are older I’m really looking forward to going back with a mate for some downtime and chat over some china painting. Not so much Wild Thyme, as Me-Time and we’re here for it!