Dojima Sake Brewery at Fordham Abbey

Mar 29th, 2023

We have just had one of our most enjoyable days out in years. It was the spring blossom day followed by Japanese meal. So when we arrived we were shown into the Japanese garden which was beautiful and included trees in blossom , a beautiful Japanese pond with bridge and stepping stones, a beautifully carved and decorated shrine , a tea house, a kitchen garden etc. we were served sake then the best sushi and Japanese canap I have had. Such complex tastes. Then we went to the tea house for a traditional tea ceremony with matcha green tea and Japanese sweets which was very beautifully done and a real experience. Then into the restaurant for the best Japanese meal I have had in 40 years. Each table had its own cooking pot and we stirred in unusual Japanese vegetables , tofu and Wagyu beef into the superb tasty stock - its called sukiyaki and it was amazing. Finally mango and bean paste sorbet plus chocolate cake and cream. Absolutely the best. We then went back to the garden and sat in the sun. We had thought it was a little bit expensive beforehand but when we left after almost 5 hours we decided it was some of the best money we have ever spent. Oh and the people ( an extended Japanese family and a few employees) were lovely and friendly. We cannot Wait to sign up for another special day.
Mar 17th, 2023

Disappointing. The "tour" comprised of three rooms and very little information, which only took about 20 minutes. This was followed by a tasting that really was just drinking - no explanation of notes or flavours. We have been to many brewery tours in the past and this was the worst I've been to. The booking process was also unnecessarily complex, with no online booking and payment available, slow responses to emails and phone lines switched off. Very disappointing considering when the brewery made 660 from 22 people! Unfortunately, I would not recommend.
Feb 23rd, 2023

A peaceful place to walk around the Georgian house. Japanese garden pretty but small and not overwhelming. The trees in the (British) garden are impressive and beautiful. It is nice to see the few people present strolling around. The entrance fee of 10 would be more than acceptable if there had been more on offer.
Feb 7th, 2023

Really nice place, cannot fully comment on the gardens as it was absolutely hammering it down during our visit. We ate in a hall, which was lovely. We wandered in to the restaurant area for a look, which was also lovely. Would like to go again during another open day when it isn't absolutely bucketing it down.
Nov 25th, 2022