Celebrate Great British Beef Week: Championing British Farmers and Quality Meat

Each spring, the UK comes together to celebrate one of its most treasured agricultural products — beef — with Great British Beef Week. 

This annual event, running in late April, is not just a chance to indulge in a delicious Sunday roast or a juicy steak; it’s a meaningful opportunity to support British farmers, promote sustainability, and appreciate the high standards of UK beef production.

What Is Great British Beef Week?

Launched in 2010 by the Ladies in Beef, a group of female beef farmers passionate about sustainable British agriculture, Great British Beef Week shines a spotlight on the quality, traceability, and sustainability of beef reared across the UK. It’s also a brilliant time to share recipes, explore new cuts, and engage in conversations about ethical food sourcing.

Why British Beef?

British beef is known for its world-class quality. UK farmers uphold rigorous animal welfare standards and environmentally conscious practices. Many cattle are grass-fed, which not only enhances the nutritional profile of the beef but also contributes to the countryside's iconic green landscapes.

Choosing British beef means:

Supporting local farmers and rural communities

Reducing food miles and carbon emissions

Ensuring traceability and high welfare standards

How to Celebrate

Here are a few ways you can take part in Great British Beef Week this year:

Cook a British Classic

Celebrate with a meal that heroes beef. Think slow-cooked brisket, cottage pie, homemade beef burgers, or a traditional roast with Yorkshire puddings and all the trimmings. If you’re short on time, a hearty one-pan beef stew or stir-fry works wonders too.

Pair Beef with British Beverages

Pair your dish with a local ale, a bold English red wine, or even a rich gravy infused with British stout. It’s a celebration, after all!

Buy Local

Look for Red Tractor or PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) labels when shopping, and try sourcing from local butchers who often provide details about the farms they work with.

Share on Social Media

Use the hashtag #GreatBritishBeefWeek to join the online celebration. Share your favourite recipes, restaurant recommendations, or even a snap of your Sunday roast.

Learn About the Farmers

Take time to read about the people behind the produce. Many farms now have Instagram accounts or websites where they share their stories, challenges, and wins — it’s a great way to reconnect with where your food comes from.

Sustainability and the Future

This year’s theme places a strong focus on sustainable farming practices and the role beef can play in a balanced, environmentally conscious diet. Supporting British beef isn’t just about taste — it’s about backing farmers who are investing in regenerative agriculture, biodiversity, and low-carbon livestock systems.

Great British Beef Week is a celebration of more than just food — it’s a nod to our nation’s farming heritage, culinary traditions, and commitment to quality and sustainability. So this week, let’s raise a fork (and maybe a pint) to British beef and those who bring it to our tables.

https://ahdb.org.uk/great-british-beef-week