Welcome to
The Rhubarb Society
Our Clubhouse
Nestled in the heart of a quaint village that was once nothing more than a smattering of cottages and rolling fields, The Rhubarb Society stands as a testament to what a group of individuals with as much money as they have spare time can do. Our clubhouse, with its unmistakable charm, is the beating heart of the society — a place where laughter mingles with the sounds of dogs barking at the Sunday trolley (Beef Wellington, of course), and every member is part of an extended family.
1962
Inception of the Clubhouse
Originally a Georgian-era house, the property had belonged to a singular family for the better part of a century before being inherited by its eldest son, Oswald. Described as a jovial man with a passion for community spirit and a love of a good smoking jacket, he turned the house into an invite-only club for those who shared the same outlook on life. Years later (and defying societal norms), he left the whole estate to his favourite granddaughter and our founder, Rhubarb. Wanting to continue her grandfather’s legacy, the building was painstakingly restored and eventually emerged as the perfect setting for society gatherings and other convivial activities.
1987
Ambitious Expansions
A quarter of a century had passed when we embarked on an ambitious expansion. The clubhouse embraced modernity by adding the West Wing, which included a larger library, a snooker room, and a conservatory for year-round enjoyment of the gardens’ splendour. Due to popular demand and the arrival of an overseas member affectionately known as ‘McBrat’, two grass courts were added made from 100% perennial ryegrass.
1993
Revitalising the Kitchens
This year introduced a state-of-the-art kitchen facility designed to host culinary workshops and a refurbished common room that offered a contemporary twist on traditional charm. These upgrades were made in anticipation of the society’s 30th anniversary, ensuring that our facilities would continue to serve as a delightful setting for the fellowship and festivities for which The Rhubarb Society is renowned.
2000
Embracing Green Thumbs
As the new millennium dawned, The Rhubarb Society celebrated by unveiling the ‘Greenhouse Initiative.’ This eco-conscious program made our clubhouse a beacon of sustainability with the introduction of solar panels, a rainwater harvesting system, and a community vegetable garden, which, of course, included a prized patch of rhubarb. A tropical nursery was also built, initially to house a founding member’s Giant Water Lily, but after several other members expressed interest in donating their own rare tropical plants, the nursery slowly grew into a permanent club fixture.
Membership
Boutique
Delve into our exclusive members-only collection, reserved for those with membership access.
What’s on offer
at the Club
The Quintessential Aspects of the Clubhouse
01
Culinary Club
Aspiring gourmets and baking enthusiasts congregate here to exchange secret recipes and partake in the annual society cook-off. Unfortunately, due to previous years, members live-in chefs are no longer allowed to join.
02
Film Club
Enthusiasts of cinema gather here to screen the classics, discover indie gems, and loudly discuss their own personal experiences with said actors and directors.
03
Community Theatre
Our in-house theatre troupe regales members with seasonal performances, showcasing local talent and fostering a love for the dramatic arts. We are happy to be the biggest feeder for BAFTA nominees in the country.
04
Gardening Guild
Green-thumbed members share their knowledge of horticulture, tending to the clubhouse grounds and organising the annual ‘Pollinating and Pol Roger’ flower show.
05
Heritage Room
This space serves as a miniature museum, housing artefacts and photographs that chronicle the rich history of our society and the village it calls home.
06
Artisan Workshops
A creative hub for crafters and DIY buffs, the clubhouse offers workshops where members can learn pottery, woodworking, and other artisanal skills in a hands-on environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should you find yourself pondering the particulars of the society, we’ve compiled a selection of responses to common inquiries for your convenience.
Q. Can anyone join The Rhubarb Society?
Absolutely! The Rhubarb Society is open to all who share our love for community and camaraderie (as long as they are proposed by an existing member). Prospective members are invited to a meet-and-greet session to get a taste of society life and to test their abilities on both clay and grass courts, of course.
Q. Are there any special events for new members?
Indeed, there are. New members are welcomed with our signature ‘Rhubarb Reception’, which takes place quarterly. It is an evening that introduces novices to our traditions and other fellow members with some black tie initiations that cannot be shared here for legal reasons.
Q. Is the clubhouse available for private events?
Yes, the clubhouse offers its charm and facilities to members for private events. Whether it be a milestone celebration or a familial gathering, we accommodate with open arms and a ready supply of our famed Rhubarb punch. We only ask that you refrain from playing Padel in the library.
