Bakery on the Water, nestled in the charming village of Bourton-on-the-Water, recently played host to a group of enthusiastic 11-year-old students from Institution Jeanne d'Arc in Étampes, France.

The picturesque Cotswolds village, renowned for its quaint shops and 17th century footbridges over the river Windrush, provided the perfect backdrop for an enriching cultural exchange.

On their visit, Bakery on the Water had the pleasure of welcoming 53 young visitors eager to experience an authentic taste of British tradition.

The highlight of their visit was undoubtedly the indulgence in a quintessential British Cream Tea. Freshly baked scones, generously topped with rich clotted cream and sweet strawberry jam, were served alongside pots of steaming tea, and provided a delightful experience for the young French guests.

"We were thrilled to host such a vibrant group of students from Étampes," said Alexander Clavel, owner of Bakery on the Water.

"It's moments like these that remind us of the power of cultural exchange and the joy of sharing our traditions with others."

The students, with their impeccable manners and contagious enthusiasm, thoroughly enjoyed their time at Bakery on the Water. Their laughter and smiles filled the air as they savoured every bite of their Cream Tea and explored the welcoming atmosphere of our bakery.

"We had a wonderful time welcoming the students from Institution Jeanne d'Arc," added co-owner Narda Franco "Their curiosity and respect for our customs were truly inspiring, and we were honoured to provide them with a taste of our Gloucestershire hospitality."

The visit not only left a lasting impression on the students but also underscored the importance of cross-cultural interactions in fostering understanding and appreciation among nations, embracing diversity and celebrating the richness of each other's

cultures.

"We are immensely proud that the students chose Gloucestershire as a destination to experience British culture," concluded Mr. Clavel "It is moments like these that strengthen the bonds between nations and pave the way for a more connected world."

Bakery on the Water looks forward to continuing to serve as a beacon of hospitality for both local guests and for visitors from around the globe, enriching lives: one scone at a time.