Scone Spy: Our cafe critic checks out Caulders garden centre at Balloch

Cafe chains can feel a bit soulless but last week I had a lovely lunch – and possibly the best scone ever – at one of Scotland’s eight Caulders garden centres.

The branch, just outside Balloch, proved you don’t have to lose the personal touch in bigger establishments.

I arrived with a friend shortly before noon on a Sunday. We were sat at the floor-to-ceiling window with views of a pretty wooded hillside.

It was almost empty but over the next hour a steady stream of hungry customers descended.

Thankfully, it was well staffed and our waitress was friendly and efficient. Nothing was a bother, even when I requested my scone to be brought to the table before my main (a precaution against them selling out before I got to my dessert).

The menu was a wholesome affair, with main meals of smoked haddock pot (a kind of Cullen skink), fish and chips and burgers. Lighter dishes included toasties, sandwiches and baked potatoes, and a great selection of cakes and bakes.

I started with a toasted cheese, tomato and onion panini with extra Branston pickle. It was grilled to light, crispy perfection and oozed delicious Scottish cheddar. Washed down with a cup of tea, it was simple but moreish.

My companion opted for the aforementioned smoked haddock pot which, after a cheeky spoonful myself, I can reveal was packed with creamy, smoky flavour.

Then I turned my attention to the fruit scone I had been holding hostage. Our waitress told us it was baked on site that morning and, in a Scone Spy first, I was delighted to learn the raspberry jam and even the cream were handmade too!

Not too big or too small, with a crunchy, golden exterior and slightly doughy insides with juicy raisins. The cream was light and fresh and the jam added a zingy zap of flavour. Perfection.

Incidentally, Caulders has a huge range of festive decorations. It really put me in the mood for Christmas so throughout December I’ll be swapping scones for mince pies.

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