River Cottage HQ

River Cottage HQ, nestled on the border of Devon and Dorset, is an immersive experience in sustainable living and delicious, ethically sourced food. Founded by Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, it embodies a farm-to-table ethos, showcasing the journey of food from field to fork.  

Here’s a breakdown of what makes it a unique foodie hotspot:

Organic Farm: The heart of River Cottage is its 100-acre organic farm, where they grow a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and herbs, and raise livestock. This provides the fresh, seasonal ingredients that form the basis of their dishes.  

Cookery School: River Cottage offers a range of cookery courses, from basic skills to more specialized topics like bread making, butchery, and foraging. These courses emphasize seasonal cooking and sustainable practices, allowing visitors to learn hands-on.  

Dining Experiences: The restaurant at River Cottage HQ offers set menus and dining events that showcase the best of the farm’s produce. The focus is on seasonal, local, and wild ingredients, prepared with skill and creativity.  

Events and Accommodation: River Cottage also hosts various events throughout the year, including workshops, festivals, and weddings. For those wanting a longer stay, they offer accommodation in the form of a farmhouse, cottages and a shepherd’s hut.  

Ethos: At its core, River Cottage promotes a sustainable and ethical approach to food. They emphasize the importance of knowing where your food comes from, supporting local producers, and minimizing environmental impact.  
Why it’s unique for a foodie road trip:

Immersive experience: It’s not just a restaurant; it’s a chance to connect with the land and learn about food production.  
Focus on sustainability: It appeals to foodies who are passionate about ethical and environmentally conscious eating.
Beautiful setting: The farm is located in a stunning rural setting, providing a peaceful and picturesque backdrop.  
Variety of offerings: From cookery courses to dining experiences and events, there’s something for everyone.  

River Cottage HQ is a destination for those seeking a deeper connection with food and a taste of sustainable living. It’s a place where you can learn, taste, and experience the best of what the British countryside has to offer.