'I set up a farm shop 15 years ago - everything we do is rooted in Yorkshire'

Growing up surrounded by countryside and fields; that wonderful sense of space and freedom.

I remember building dens, picking wild flowers and conkers, heading out on picnics and disappearing off on my bike for hours along quiet country roads near Holmfirth.

What’s your idea of a perfect day, or a perfect weekend, out in Yorkshire?

Being tucked away in a log cabin or a beautiful suite at Swinton Park in the Dales, with scenic walks, long, relaxed lunches celebrating local produce, supper over a campfire and a glass of wine under the stars. Absolute heaven.

Do you have a favourite walk – or view?

You can’t beat the views across the Yorkshire Wolds from South Cave. On a clear day, you can see across the Humber and as far as Emley Moor.

Which Yorkshire sportsman, past or present, would you like to take for lunch?

I’m not hugely into sport, but I’m incredibly proud of my godchildren, some of whom are going far in cycling, tennis and golf. A lunch with my two sporty sons and my seven godchildren would be a real treat.

Which Yorkshire stage or screen star, past or present, would you like to take for dinner?

Dame Judi Dench would be wonderful. She has such presence and warmth, and, I imagine, some incredible stories.

If you had to name your Yorkshire ‘hidden gem’, what would it be?

I have a favourite little bench in the park in Filey overlooking the beach. It’s a place to pause, reflect and simply breathe - and feel very grateful.

If you could own something in Yorkshire for a day, what would it be?

I would love to step back in time and be a guest at a lavish garden party at Castle Howard or Harewood House, when the gardens were in full bloom.

With softly flickering oil lamps lighting the paths, elegant music drifting through the air, the scent of roses, rosemary and lavender, and the sound of laughter and fountains. It must have been magical.

What do you think gives Yorkshire its unique identity?

The people; straight-talking, warm and down to earth, with a strong sense of pride and great humour. It’s like stepping into a vibrant David Hockney painting.

Do you follow sport in the county, and if so, what?

I follow it in general and I was especially proud to see Hull City AFC promoted to the Premier League. There was certainly a lot of celebrating from our team.

Do you have a favourite restaurant, or pub?

I love entertaining at home, but we are so lucky in Yorkshire to have incredible places celebrating local, seasonal food.

Favourites include The Pipe and Glass, The Star at Harome, The Fox & Coney at South Cave, The Goodmanham Arms, Cerutti 2 in Beverley, The Wellington at Lund and, of course, Drewton’s.

Do you have a favourite food shop?

I’m obviously biased, but farm shops play such an important role in bringing together local producers and communities. I’m proud to work alongside so many fantastic farm shops across Yorkshire through the Farm Retail Association.

How do you think that Yorkshire has changed, for better or for worse?

I’m very much a glass half-full person. There’s been a huge rise in appreciation for local food, independent businesses and experiences, which is fantastic.

Yorkshire has also become a real destination, bringing exciting opportunities.

If you had to change one thing in, or about Yorkshire, what would that be?

I wouldn’t change much at all, other than perhaps just encouraging more people to get out and support local businesses. It’s really a case of ‘use it or lose it’, so be curious and take pride in what’s on your doorstep.

Who is the Yorkshire person that you most admire?

Right now, it has to be my eldest son, Freddie. He is in remission from stage four blood cancer and has shown incredible strength and determination.

He has raised more than £50,000 for charity, climbed mountains, from the Yorkshire Three Peaks to Kilimanjaro, and continues to push himself. He’s remarkable.

Has Yorkshire influenced your work?

Completely. Everything we do is rooted in Yorkshire, from the produce we use to the way we welcome people. It defines the Drewton experience, and we’re proud to work with hundreds of producers and businesses across the county.

Name your favourite Yorkshire book/author/artist/CD/performer.

Barbara Taylor Bradford - I’ve always loved her books and her strong, inspiring characters.

If a stranger to Yorkshire only had time to visit one place, where should it be?

The Yorkshire Wolds, with a stop at Drewton, of course. You get the scenery, the peace and a real taste of Yorkshire life.

What’s your favourite part of the county – and why?

Filey holds a very special place in my heart. We have so many happy family memories there - friends piling in at peak times, long walks along the beach with the dogs, beautiful sunrises and sunsets, and the gentle sound of the waves on quiet evening strolls.

Drewtons is a multi-award winning business, which now also comprises a wedding and events venue, employs more than 60 local people and supports a network of 400 Yorkshire-based farmers, growers and suppliers.

Katie now works alongside her son, Freddie Cole, who joined the family business in 2014 and became a director in 2025. During June, July and August, they are hosting a series of dining experiences in hidden corners of the picturesque Drewton Estate.