Tucked away in the village of Asfordby, The Mighty Pop’s Bakeaway Barn is a shining example of how passion, trust, and a love for baking can grow into something truly special. From award nominations to a thriving self-service cake shed, this inspiring story shows what’s possible when creativity meets community spirit.

Who is The Mighty Pop?

I am a 34 year old Teaching Assistant of 16 years living in the village of Asfordby. Outside of it all, I enjoy long walks and hikes.

In the 5 years of my business, I have been shortlisted and a finalist for multiple awards, including:

• ‘Business Person of the Year’ (Best of Melton Awards 2021 and Melton BID 2025)
• ‘Best Independent Business’, ‘Best Local Food Producer’, ‘Best Bakery’, and ‘Best Home-Based Business’ at the Small Business UK Awards 2025.
• I also received a highly recommended award, just missing out on the top 10 for ‘Best Home-Based Business’ across the entire country.

How Did The Mighty Pop Come About?

When 2021 hit, I wanted to do something completely different and realised that running a business was something I had yet to accomplish. I’ve always loved chocolate, so chocolate slabs were the first creations. Since March 2021, the business has evolved in a huge way.

What Made You Decide to Run a Cake Shed?

After running The Mighty Pop for a few years through custom orders, markets, and wholesalers, I needed something that would give me my weekends back. Working full-time during the week meant weekends were my only downtime, but they had become consumed by the business.

That’s when the Bakeaway Box was born in August 2024, which then evolved into the Bakeaway Barn on 17th April 2025, a self-service setup that allows the business to run without me needing to always be present.

What Do You Most Enjoy About Running It?

There are two main reasons. Firstly, I’ve got my weekends back while the barn continues to run. Secondly, the honesty and trust from customers has been incredible, in 18 months, I haven’t experienced any dishonesty, which is amazing.

What Has Been the Most Popular Bake?

It changes week to week - brownies, cookies, and new items all have their moment. Overall though, the standout favourite is the millionaire shortbread with homemade caramel. It’s definitely a treat.

What Makes You Stand Out?

The cake shed is an extension of my already established business, which is well known locally. Everyone has their own lane, and I feel like I’m exactly where I should be. My treats are indulgent, irresistible, and made to be enjoyed.

What’s Your Favourite Thing to Bake?

It varies, but I particularly love making cookies. From mixing the dough to seeing the finished product, it’s such a therapeutic process.

What Has the Local Response Been Like?

The response has been amazing. Having an existing customer base definitely helped bring people in and gave me confidence when launching. There’s a lot more involved than people might think, it’s not just baking and putting items out, but the support from the community has made it all worthwhile.

I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who visits the Bakeaway Barn for their kindness, honesty, and support. It truly means everything.

Before You Visit

All treats are homemade, packed with plenty of goodness (sadly not 0% calories!). The Bakeaway Barn is open every Saturday and Sunday from 9:30am to 8:30pm, with occasional Friday openings during half term.