St George’s Day Feast Menu

Starter: Ploughman’s Platter

A rustic and satisfying way to kick off the meal:

Mature Cheddar and Stilton

Pork pie slices or scotch eggs

Pickled onions and Branston pickle

Crusty bread and butter

Apple slices and celery sticks

Serve with a pint of English ale or a crisp apple cider.

Main Course: Roast Beef with Yorkshire Pudding

A quintessentially English dish:

Roast beef with horseradish sauce

Homemade Yorkshire puddings

Roasted potatoes, parsnips, and carrots

Buttered peas or seasonal greens

Rich onion gravy

Swap the beef for roast lamb if you fancy a springtime variation.

Dessert: Treacle Tart with Clotted Cream

A sweet, sticky, traditional pudding:

Golden syrup filling with breadcrumbs and lemon zest

Served warm with a generous spoon of clotted cream or custard

Alternatively, try a rhubarb crumble – it’s in season and oh-so British.

After-Dinner Tipple: A Proper Cuppa or English Liqueur

A strong cup of English Breakfast tea

Or something a little stronger like sloe gin or a dram of English whisky

This is a vegan option:-

Vegan Main Course: Mushroom & Ale Pie

A rich, hearty, and comforting centrepiece:

A mix of chestnut and portobello mushrooms, slow-cooked with carrots, onions, and leeks

Braised in a full-bodied vegan ale with thyme and rosemary

Encased in golden, flaky shortcrust pastry (made with dairy-free butter)

Serve with:

Vegan roast potatoes (use olive oil or vegetable fat)

Seasonal roasted root veg

Steamed greens or braised cabbage

Vegan onion gravy

Vegan Dessert Option: Spiced Apple & Rhubarb Crumble

Celebrate the season with this fruity favourite:

Tart rhubarb and Bramley apples stewed with cinnamon and ginger

Topped with an oaty crumble made using dairy-free butter or coconut oil

Serve warm with vegan custard or a scoop of plant-based vanilla ice cream

Celebrate Spanish Language Day with Spanish-Inspired Treats

Spanish Language Day is celebrated each year on 23 April, honouring the rich cultural and linguistic contributions of the Spanish-speaking world. 

What better way to celebrate than by indulging in some delicious Spanish dishes?

Whether you're fluent in Spanish or just love the food, here’s how you can bring a taste of Spain to your kitchen. 

From savoury tapas to sweet postres, this is the perfect menu for a Spanish-themed feast!

Savoury Spanish Treats

Tortilla Española (Spanish Omelette)

A timeless Spanish classic made with eggs, potatoes, and onions. It’s hearty, satisfying, and incredibly versatile. Serve it warm or at room temperature – perfect for a relaxed lunch or as part of a tapas spread.

Croquetas de Jamón (Ham Croquettes)

Creamy, comforting, and crisp on the outside, these croquettes are made with a rich béchamel sauce and chopped serrano ham. A popular bite-sized snack in Spanish households and tapas bars alike.

Pan con Tomate

Originating from Catalonia, this rustic bread dish is delightfully simple. Toasted bread is rubbed with garlic and ripe tomato, drizzled with quality olive oil, and lightly salted. It makes a great appetiser or side dish.

Patatas Bravas

A staple in any tapas selection, patatas bravas are crispy fried potatoes topped with a spicy tomato sauce (and sometimes a dollop of garlicky aioli). Bold in flavour and easy to share.

Sweet Spanish Desserts

Churros con Chocolate

These golden, crispy dough sticks are rolled in sugar and best enjoyed dipped in thick, rich Spanish-style hot chocolate. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a cheeky afternoon treat.

Tarta de Santiago

A traditional almond cake from Galicia, typically dusted with icing sugar and adorned with the cross of Saint James. It’s naturally gluten-free and pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee.

Flan Español (Spanish Caramel Custard)

Silky, smooth, and bathed in caramel, this Spanish flan is a delightful end to any meal. It’s lighter than many Western-style custards but just as satisfying.

Leche Frita (Fried Milk)

This unique Spanish dessert features sweet, thickened milk that's been chilled, coated in a crispy shell, and fried to golden perfection. A dusting of cinnamon and sugar brings it all together.

Make It a Celebration

Set the mood with Spanish music (flamenco guitar, anyone?), pour yourself a glass of sangria or Spanish wine, and maybe even practise a few Spanish phrases along the way. Whether you're cooking solo or inviting friends over for a mini fiesta, this menu brings Spanish culture to life through flavour and tradition.

¡Buen provecho!

Let us know which dishes you try – and if you post your creations on social media, tag us so we can share your Spanish Language Day celebration!

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

Perfect Summer Beers from Cornwall's Firebrand Brewing Co

Firebrand Brewing Co.'s Helles Beach Cornish Lager and Summerleaze Hazy Pale are both lovingly made in Cornwall and perfect for summer supping.

Summerleaze Hazy Pale (ABV 4%, 440ml RRP £3.50)

Summerleaze Hazy Pale is a radiant hazy pale that captures the essence of sun-kissed days on the shores of Bude's beloved Summerleaze Beach. 

A beer that embodies the vibrant spirit of summer, prepare your senses for a flavour filled journey as waves of peach and citrus cascade over your palate. 

Brewed with a pale malt base, Summerleaze pours a slightly hazy luminous golden colour and is hopped with a copious blend of Citra and Nectaron for an explosion of fruity flavour. It is vegan-friendly and gluten free.

Helles Beach Cornish Lager (ABV 4.4%, 440ml RRP £3.45)

Brewed as the go-to beer after a surf, paddle board or a long coastal walk, Helles Beach Cornish Lager provides a refreshing salute to a day outside well spent. Biscuity and floral with a hint of spice, we've used Cascade hops to give a subtle citrus flavour for a super satisfying finish. 

Brewed with a combination of traditional and modern techniques for depth and drinkability, this is the perfect beer whether you're at the beach or on your couch.

Firebrand Brewing Co was forged in 2012 in a converted milking parlour on the wild, untamed edge of Bodmin Moor, North Cornwall. The idea was born from a passion for beer made from all-natural ingredients, Cornish spring water and American hops. 

Now based in a purpose-built brewery in Launceston, using the finest ingredients and a dedication to quality, their mission is to 'Go Beyond The Usual', encouraging drinkers to explore new flavours and discover something different with every sip.

For more information on Firebrand Brewing Co. please visit them on www.firebrandbrewing.co.uk or follow them on Facebook and Instagram. 

Eco-Friendly Ideas for Meals, Snacks and Drinks to Mark World Earth Day

Each year on 22nd April, people around the globe come together to celebrate World Earth Day – a time to reflect on our impact on the planet and take steps towards a more sustainable future. 

What better way to join in than through the food and drink choices we make? Whether you're planning a picnic, a family dinner, or just looking for some new ideas, here are eco-friendly meal, snack and drink suggestions to help you mark Earth Day in delicious and planet-positive ways.

Earth-Friendly Meal Ideas

1. Plant-Based Power Bowls

Celebrate the Earth by filling your plate with seasonal, locally-sourced produce. A rainbow bowl of roasted vegetables, whole grains like quinoa or barley, and a dollop of hummus or tahini dressing is both nutritious and sustainable.

2. One-Pan Lentil & Vegetable Bake

Cut down on energy use and washing-up with a simple one-pan dish. Combine lentils, courgette, carrots, tomatoes and herbs for a satisfying bake that’s high in protein and low in emissions.

3. Foraged Feast or Allotment Pickings

If you’re lucky enough to have access to a garden, community allotment or safe foraging spot, why not build a meal around what you find? Wild garlic, nettles or dandelion greens can all feature in pestos, soups or frittatas.

Sustainable Snack Suggestions

1. No-Waste Veggie Crisps

Use up leftover vegetable peels (think carrot, parsnip, beetroot) by tossing them in a bit of oil and seasoning, then roasting until crisp. A tasty way to reduce food waste!

2. Homemade Energy Balls

Made with dates, oats, nuts and seeds – energy balls are quick to prepare and require no baking. Add a splash of maple syrup and roll in desiccated coconut for an indulgent treat.

3. Upcycled Fruit 

Got overripe fruit? Blend it, spread it thinly on a baking tray, and dehydrate in the oven on low heat to make DIY fruit roll-ups with zero packaging.

Eco-Conscious Drink Options

1. Infused Tap Water

Skip the plastic bottles and elevate your hydration with slices of cucumber, mint leaves, berries or citrus fruits in chilled tap water.

2. Iced Herbal Teas

Brew a large pot of herbal tea using loose-leaf blends (or compostable bags) and chill it for a refreshing alternative to sugary drinks. Try chamomile with lemon or peppermint with elderflower.

3. Smoothies with “Imperfect” Produce

Many supermarkets and veg boxes now offer "wonky" fruit and vegetables. Use these in smoothies to rescue produce that might otherwise go to waste – delicious, nutritious, and waste-conscious.

Bonus Tips for an Earth Day Spread

Compost scraps from your prep session.

Use reusable containers and cloth napkins for outdoor meals or picnics.

Shop local and in-season – it's better for the planet and supports small producers.

Cook in bulk to save energy and reduce midweek meal prep time.

Marking World Earth Day with mindful meals and snacks is a delicious way to honour the planet. These ideas are just a start – every small step counts. 

Whether you're cooking for one or hosting a green gathering, choosing planet-friendly foods makes a difference.

How are you celebrating World Earth Day this year? Let me know your favourite eco-recipes in the comments or tag me on social media – I’d love to see your Earth Day spreads!

Why You Should Be Using Turmeric in Your Diet

Turmeric, that bright golden spice tucked away in your spice rack, is far more than just a colourful addition to your curry. 

With a history rooted in ancient Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine, turmeric is gaining ground in modern kitchens and wellness circles alike, thanks to its remarkable health benefits and versatility.

Whether you're a seasoned foodie or simply looking to boost your wellbeing through natural ingredients, here’s why turmeric deserves a regular place on your plate.

1. Powerful Anti-Inflammatory Properties

At the heart of turmeric’s superpowers is curcumin, its active compound. Curcumin has potent anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce inflammation in the body – a root cause of many chronic diseases including arthritis, heart disease, and even some cancers. Unlike over-the-counter anti-inflammatories, turmeric offers a natural alternative without the unwanted side effects.

2. Rich in Antioxidants

Turmeric is loaded with antioxidants that help neutralise free radicals in the body. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause cell damage, contributing to ageing and diseases like Alzheimer's and cancer. By including turmeric in your diet, you can help your body fight oxidative stress and support overall cellular health.

3. Supports Digestive Health

Turmeric has long been used as a digestive aid. It can help reduce bloating, gas, and other digestive discomforts. Its anti-inflammatory effects may also benefit those suffering from conditions like IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) or Crohn’s disease.

4. May Boost Brain Function

Curcumin is believed to increase levels of BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor), a type of growth hormone that functions in the brain. Higher levels of BDNF are linked to improved memory and cognitive function, and may even reduce the risk of brain diseases such as depression and Alzheimer's.

5. Supports Heart Health

Research suggests that curcumin may improve the function of the endothelium, which is the lining of your blood vessels. Poor endothelial function is a major driver of heart disease, so turmeric’s ability to enhance this function could help in maintaining a healthy heart.

6. Easy to Add to Your Diet

Turmeric isn’t just for curries. You can stir it into smoothies, mix it into scrambled eggs, sprinkle it on roasted vegetables, or try the ever-popular golden milk latte. Just remember: curcumin is fat-soluble, so it’s best absorbed with a healthy fat (like coconut oil or olive oil) and a pinch of black pepper to increase bioavailability.

However, a Word of Caution

While turmeric is generally safe for most people, very high doses or long-term use may cause digestive issues. If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or on medication (especially blood thinners), it’s wise to check with your GP before adding turmeric supplements to your routine.

Easy Ways to Use Turmeric – Recipes to Try at Home

1. Golden Milk Latte (Turmeric Latte)

A comforting, warming drink packed with anti-inflammatory goodness.

Ingredients:

250ml almond milk (or milk of choice)

1 tsp turmeric powder

¼ tsp ground cinnamon

Pinch of black pepper

½ tsp grated fresh ginger or ¼ tsp ground ginger

1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional)

Method:

Heat the milk in a small saucepan over medium heat.

Whisk in turmeric, cinnamon, black pepper, and ginger.

Simmer gently (don’t boil!) for 5 minutes.

Sweeten if desired, pour into a mug, and enjoy.

2. Turmeric Roasted Vegetables

A delicious and colourful side dish to pair with almost any meal.

Ingredients:

2 carrots, sliced

1 sweet potato, cubed

1 courgette, sliced

1 red onion, chopped

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp turmeric powder

½ tsp cumin

Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

Preheat oven to 200°C (180°C fan).

Toss vegetables with olive oil, turmeric, cumin, salt, and pepper.

Spread on a baking tray and roast for 25–30 minutes until golden and crisp on the edges.

3. Turmeric Smoothie Booster

An energising breakfast or mid-day pick-me-up.

Ingredients:

1 banana

200ml coconut water or almond milk

½ tsp turmeric powder

¼ tsp ground cinnamon

½ tsp chia seeds

Handful of frozen mango or pineapple

Small pinch of black pepper

Method:

Blend all ingredients until smooth.

Serve immediately and enjoy the vibrant flavour.

Where to Buy Turmeric in the UK

Here are a few highly rated UK-based options:

Turmeric Powder

Organic Turmeric Powder by Hatton Hill Organic – Amazon UK 

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Organic-Ground-Turmeric-Hatton-Hill/dp/B0161WC378

A well-priced, organic option with no additives.

JustIngredients Essentials Ground Turmeric

https://justingredients.co.uk

Trusted brand, available online or in-store.

Turmeric Supplements

Turmeric with Black Pepper by Prowise Healthcare

https://prowisehealthcare.com

Includes black pepper for absorption, UK-manufactured.

Wild Nutrition Food-Grown Turmeric Plus – Planet Organic

https://www.planetorganic.com

A premium supplement with added ginger and zinc.

Turmeric is a small change which can have a big impact. From easing inflammation to supporting brain and heart health, this golden spice is a simple yet powerful way to enhance your diet and your wellbeing. So why not make turmeric a staple in your kitchen?

JING™ Chosen as Full Supply Tea Partner at New Park Hyatt London River Thames

JING™ is thrilled to announce it's been selected by the new Park Hyatt London River Thames to be its full supply tea partner, providing exceptional handcrafted, single garden teas to guests throughout their stay and also taking centre stage in the hotel's TAMISé Wine Library and Tea Lounge, which was launched on 14th February.

Says Melanie Tricklebank, CEO of JING™: “We're delighted to have been appointed tea partners for this extraordinary new hotel in London. JING™ travels the world to responsibly source the highest quality single garden teas directly from tea origins across Asia. 

"We are as excited by the captivating stories of each tea maker we meet and origin we explore as we are about their distinctive, delicious teas. We're passionate about changing guests' perception of tea. It is a real testament to the authenticity and intriguing qualities of our unparalleled range and tea serves that Park Hyatt London River Thames has chosen to partner with us to elevate their guests' experience.” 

Melanie continues: ”We share Park Hyatt London River Thames' passion for delighting visitors with curated experiences and are thrilled that guests in the new TAMISé Wine Library and Tea Lounge will be able to choose from twelve of our unique loose-leaf teas under the expert guidance of their tea sommeliers. Guests will enjoy an exclusive journey, indulging in the delicate artistry of our incredible teas and their expert preparation at table.”

Rike Erdbrink, who is General Manager, Park Hyatt London River Thames says: “We are delighted to be serving JING™ tea throughout our new hotel and delighted that these teas will be a key feature at TAMISé Wine Library and Tea Lounge. 

"Each tea selection tells a story and were thoughtfully chosen by our sommeliers, who are on hand to guide guests through the diverse collection. The team at JING™ has provided outstanding support, expertise and training to ensure that our tea sommeliers encompass the knowledge and skills to enchant each guest with a perfect tea experience.”

Twelve of JING™'s exquisite loose leaf teas will be available in the TAMISé Wine Library and Tea Lounge including Jasmine Silver Needle, Dragon Well and Ali Shan. JING™ has trekked across the world and curated remarkable teas from some of the world's most talented artisan tea producers, each with their own story to tell.  

Every sip of JING™ tea tells a tale. Their transparent supply chain comes from meaningful and long lasting relationships they forge with them which helps them survive and thrive.

Long Live The Local: Why We Must Raise a Glass to Our Pubs

There’s something deeply comforting about a pint pulled expertly at your favourite pub, the warm chatter of friends and strangers alike, and the familiar clink of glasses that signals community, connection, and tradition. 

But our locals – the lifeblood of British social life – are under threat. That’s why the Long Live The Local campaign, led by the British Beer & Pub Association, deserves all our backing.

More Than Just a Pint

Pubs are more than places to drink. They’re venues where communities come together – whether it’s to celebrate, to mourn, to catch up, or simply to sit in comfortable silence with others. For centuries, they’ve stood as a cornerstone of British culture, offering a place to unwind, to debate, to laugh, and to belong.

Yet the pressures facing pubs today are unprecedented. Rising costs, business rates, staffing shortages, and disproportionate beer duty are forcing many to close their doors for good. In fact, thousands have already been lost in recent years – and once a pub is gone, it rarely returns.

What Is Long Live The Local?

Long Live The Local is a grassroots campaign calling on the government to better support Britain’s pubs and breweries. At the heart of the campaign is a simple but powerful message: pubs matter, and they need fairer treatment, particularly when it comes to beer duty – one of the highest in Europe.

By highlighting the role of pubs in our economy, our communities, and our national identity, the campaign urges policymakers to act now to save what’s left and reinvest in the future of the industry.

The Economic and Cultural Case

Pubs contribute billions to the UK economy and support over 900,000 jobs. For rural communities, they are often one of the last remaining communal spaces. For towns and cities, they’re part of the cultural fabric – from historic inns to new-wave craft beer taprooms.

But while the hospitality sector continues to fight back post-pandemic, many pubs are still just about keeping their heads above water. With beer duty making up a large chunk of their costs, the campaign is pushing for reforms that could help ease this burden and allow publicans to keep doing what they do best.

How You Can Help

If you value your local – and the millions of memories made within its walls – there are plenty of ways to show your support:

Sign the petition at longlivethelocal.pub

Write to your MP urging them to back the campaign https://members.parliament.uk/FindYourMP

Support your local pubs with your custom – a quiet Tuesday visit can make a big difference

Spread the word on social media using #LongLiveTheLocal

Even the smallest gesture can help amplify the message: pubs are worth saving.

A Toast to the Future

We shouldn’t have to imagine a Britain without pubs – but that risk becomes more real each day. Whether it’s a city centre boozer or a country village free house, each pub tells a story. They deserve to be protected, celebrated, and passed on to future generations.

So here’s to the places that make us laugh, connect us to one another, and make Britain feel like home. Here’s to the landlords and landladies, the cellar masters, the bar staff, and the brewers. Here’s to community, resilience, and pride.

Long live the pint. Long live the public house. Long Live The Local.

Calling all Bellas! Bella Italia has £100 with Your Name on it!

Bella Italia today launches the first ever Bella Appreciation Day, anyone named Bella will get £100 to spend at Bella Italia! 

t’s never been better to be called Bella!

Calling all Bellas! Show your ID, grab your FREE money and celebrate – because being a Bella has never been so rewarding!

Ever wished your name could get you free food? Well, if your name is Bella, today’s your lucky day! 

On Wednesday 30th April, Bella Italia is rolling out the red carpet for all Bellas across the nation with the launch of Bella Appreciation Day.

For one day only, anyone named Bella (or a version of such like Arabella or Anabella) can enjoy £100 to spend at Bella Italia – no strings attached. 

All you need to do is show valid identification at any Bella Italia restaurant, and you’ll receive a £100 voucher to use on the day. 

Whether you’re a Bella who loves Bolognese, a Bella who’s passionate about pizza, or a Bella who just fancies a freebie, this is your moment to shine.

Bella Italia has long been a place where friends and family come together to enjoy delicious Italian-inspired food in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. 

The launch of Bella Appreciation Day is part of the brand’s  ‘Feel Bella’ initiative, which celebrates the joy of dining together. Inspired by the Italian tradition of bringing loved ones around the table, Bella Italia creates a welcoming atmosphere where guests can escape the everyday, savour delicious food, and make meaningful memories.

From hand-stretched pizzas and creamy Carbonara to indulgent desserts and signature cocktails, there’s something for every Bella to enjoy.

A Bella Italia spokesperson said: “We love Bellas. We really do! In fact, we love them so much, in fact, that we’ve decided to dedicate an entire day to them. If you’re a Bella we want to celebrate you and our way of saying ‘grazie’. So, if you’re a Bella, grab your ID, bring your appetite, and let’s make 30th April a day to remember.”

To participate, Bellas simply need to visit any Bella Italia restaurant on Wednesday 30th April and show their valid ID to claim their £100 voucher. 

The offer is only available for dine-in guests and must be redeemed and used on the same day. Each Bella is entitled to one voucher, and the offer has no cash value and no change will be given. 

Whilst we’d love to be able to give everyone a slice of the action, only those with ‘Bella’ on their official identification will qualify.

Bella Appreciation Day is a one-day-only event, so if you or someone you know is named Bella, this is the perfect excuse to gather friends and family for a delicious meal. Whether it’s a solo celebration, a double-Bella dinner, or an entire table of Bellas, the more, the merrier.

For more information, Terms & Conditions or to book a table, visit: BellaItalia.co.uk.

A Brie-lliant Idea: The Rise of Wedding Cakes Made from Cheese

Once considered to be a quirky novelty, cheese wedding cakes are now firmly on the radar for modern couples looking to put a deliciously savoury twist on tradition. 

Swapping out tiers of sponge and sugar for wheels of creamy Brie, tangy Cheddar, or velvety Blue Stilton, these alternative cakes are as much a statement piece as they are a gastronomic delight.

From Sweet to Savoury: Why Cheese Cakes Are On the Rise

There’s no denying the visual impact of a towering cake layered with various artisanal cheeses, often decorated with figs, grapes, fresh herbs, and edible flowers. 

But this trend is about more than just aesthetics—it’s part of a broader move towards personalisation in weddings. 

Couples want to serve food that reflects their personalities, and for cheese lovers, what could be more "them" than a centrepiece that doubles as a cheeseboard?

A Taste of British Excellence

Here in the UK, we’re blessed with some of the world’s finest cheeses—from mature Somerset Cheddars to rich Cornish Yarg and pungent Yorkshire Blues. A cheese wedding cake gives couples the chance to showcase regional favourites, support local dairies, and create a truly unique flavour journey for their guests.

How It Works

Typically, a cheese wedding cake is composed of several whole cheese wheels stacked to resemble a traditional tiered cake. Cheesemongers often offer expert guidance, helping couples choose cheeses that complement each other in texture and taste, and that can be cut easily for serving.

Some popular combinations might include:

Base tier: A robust hard cheese like Westcombe Cheddar or Lincolnshire Poacher

Middle tier: A creamy, crowd-pleasing Brie or Camembert

Top tier: A punchy blue like Stilton or even a goat's cheese for something fresh and tangy

Decorating the Cheese Cake

Far from being a blocky mound of dairy, these cakes can be beautifully adorned with rustic or elegant touches. Think fresh figs and rosemary sprigs, wildflowers, honeycomb, or clusters of vine-ripened grapes. Some couples even opt for a small traditional fruitcake or sponge layer at the very top to retain a nod to convention (and for the cake-cutting moment!). Some couples will also have a traditional wedding cake to provide guests with a traditional slice of cake to take away with them and for sending to people unable to attend the ceremony. 

Pairing It Right

To really elevate the cheese wedding cake experience, many couples pair it with artisan breads, crackers, chutneys, and of course—wine. A local red, a sparkling English white, or even craft beers can be matched to the cheeses served, creating a memorable grazing table for guests.

UK Cheesemongers & Stylists for Your Cheese Wedding Cake

If you're tempted to have your own cheese creation, here are some top names to consider:

The Cheese Shed (Devon)

Known for their stunning customisable cheese cakes and wide selection of West Country cheeses. They offer nationwide delivery and a full design service.

www.thecheeseshed.com

The Fine Cheese Co. (Bath)

With a reputation for refined presentation and high-quality British and European cheeses, they offer pre-designed and bespoke cheese wedding cakes.

www.finecheese.co.uk

Pong Cheese (Online UK)

A great option if you’re putting together your own display—they sell themed cheese cake towers and selection boxes, and stock a mix of British and continental cheeses.

www.pongcheese.co.uk

Neal’s Yard Dairy (London)

A go-to for artisan British and Irish cheeses, Neal’s Yard offers expert advice on building your own cake and tasting notes to match.

www.nealsyarddairy.co.uk

The Cheese Wedding Cake Co. (UK-wide)

As the name suggests, this company specialises entirely in cheese wedding cakes with a wide variety of styles—from rustic to sleek—and helpful guides for DIY assembly.

www.cheeseweddingcake.co.uk

The Final Slice?

Whether you're a cheese connoisseur or just after a show-stopping alternative to traditional tiers, the cheese wedding cake is a trend that brings flavour, personality, and a touch of decadence to any big day. It's bold, it's British, and it's blooming brilliant! 

And it brings a whole new, multi-layered meaning to the instruction to "Say Cheese!"