Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to the Le Petit Fournil FAQ page. Can't find what you're looking for? Get in touch via info@lepetitfournil.co.uk we'll be happy to help.
What is a microbakery?
We're a small-batch artisanal bakery, inspired by the traditional boulangeries found throughout France. Rather than mass production, we focus on quality over quantity — every loaf and pastry is made by hand using traditional techniques and slow fermentation.
How often do you bake?
We normally bake twice a week, on Wednesday and Friday or Saturday. You'll see the available collection/delivery days at checkout when you place your order. Orders should be placed two days prior to collection/delivery.
Orders for a Wednesday should be placed by 12:00 noon on Monday
Orders for a Friday should be placed by 12:00 noon on Wednesday
Orders for a Saturday should be placed by 12:00 noon on Thursday
How do I place an order?
Simply browse our shop, add your items to the basket, and choose collection or delivery at the checkout.
How far in advance should I order?
As we bake in small batches to order, we'd recommend ordering a few days ahead where possible, especially for larger items or bigger orders — this helps us plan our baking and reduces the risk of your favourites selling out.
Can I place a bulk or custom order?
Yes — for larger quantities, special occasions, or bespoke requests, please get in touch directly via our Contact Us page and we'll do our best to accommodate you.
Can I cancel or amend my order?
As everything is baked fresh to order, please contact us as soon as possible if you need to change or cancel — we may not be able to make changes once baking is underway. We'll always do our best to accommodate you.
Where can I collect my order from?
Collection is from our bakery at Hilldrop, 29 Butts Road, Chiseldon, Swindon SN4 0NN, between 10:00–18:00 on baking days. Your order will be waiting for you in our "bread shed" at the end of the drive. There is plenty of parking.
It is also possible to collect from our market stall on market days. Order online to reserve your items.
Do you deliver?
Yes — we deliver within a six mile radius of the bakery on baking days. Delivery is subject to a £3 charge and a minimum order value of £12. We offer free delivery for order over £30.
What if I live outside the delivery area?
No problem — you're welcome to place an order for collection instead, or catch us at one of our local markets (see below). Or give us a call, we'll always do our best to accommodate you.
Can I find you at a market?
Yes! You'll find us at several Wiltshire markets each week:
- Highworth — Saturday mornings (first and third Saturdays of the month)
- Malmesbury — Friday mornings (second Friday of the month)
- Wroughton — Friday mornings (fourth Friday of the month)
Everything on the stall is baked fresh on the morning of the market. If you want to order for collection at a market please indicate at the checkout in the "message for the merchant" section.
Do your products contain allergens?
Yes. As a bakery, wheat/gluten is present in the vast majority of our products, and several items also contain butter, milk, almonds, soya, or anchovy depending on the recipe. Full ingredients are listed on each individual product page — please check before ordering if you have an allergy or intolerance.
Please be aware that we are a home-based microbakery and all items could therefore contain traces of allergens.
Do you have anything suitable for gluten-sensitive customers?
Our Petit Épeautre loaf is made with ancient einkorn flour, which is naturally low in gluten and a popular choice for customers who are gluten-sensitive (though not suitable for coeliacs, as it isn't gluten-free). It's always worth checking the current ingredients list for the most up-to-date information.
Do you cater for vegans?
Several of our breads — including our Baguettes, Pain de Campagne, Pain Curcuma and Petit Épeautre — are vegan, as they're made without dairy, eggs or animal fats. Vegan items are clearly marked on the relevant product pages.
I have a specific allergy — can I ask before I order?
Absolutely — if you have any concerns about a specific allergen, please contact us before placing your order and we'll do our best to advise.
Do you use organic ingredients?
Where possible, yes. All of our breads and pastries are made using organic flour, butter, eggs and milk. Added ingredients such as chocolate, nuts, etc, may not be organic.
What makes your bread different from supermarket bread?
We use slow fermentation, quality ingredients, and traditional techniques rather than shortcuts — no additives or artificial preservatives, just proper time and care. This gives our bread its authentic flavour, texture and character.
How long will my bread stay fresh?
Like any traditional, additive-free bread, ours is at its best eaten within a couple of days of baking. For longer storage, most of our loaves freeze well — simply slice before freezing for easy defrosting.
Do you offer a bread subscriptions/regular orders?
We don't currently have a formal subscription scheme set up online, but many of our customers place regular weekly or fortnightly orders with us. If you'd like to arrange a standing order, please get in touch and we'll happily sort this out for you.
How do I pay?
Payment is taken securely online at checkout when you place your order. All major credit and debit cards are accepted.
Still have a question?
Get in touch via info@lepetitfournil.co.uk or 07711 594486 — we're always happy to help.