The West Country of England is a region famous for its delicious and traditional food and drink. Here’s a look at some of the best things to eat and drink in the area.
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Crabs
The West Country is known for its fresh seafood, particularly its crabs. Towns like Padstow in Cornwall and Brixham in Devon are famous for their crab fishing, with local fishermen catching brown crabs and the sweet-tasting Cornish crabs. The crabs are prized for their firm, sweet meat, making them a must-try when you visit the West Country.
Cider
No trip to the West Country would be complete without trying its famous cider. Devon and Somerset are particularly known for producing some of the best ciders in the country, with a history that dates back centuries. The apples grown in the region are perfect for making cider, and many local farmers continue the traditional craft cider making.
Cream Tea and Scones
A quintessential part of West Country culture is the famous cream tea. This delicious treat typically consists of a freshly baked scone, clotted cream and strawberry jam, all served with a pot of tea.
Gloucester Old Spot Pork
When it comes to meats, the West Country is famous for its Gloucester Old Spot pork. This breed of pig is native to the area, and its meat is known for its tenderness and high quality.
Cornish Pasties
The Cornish pasty is one of the West Country’s most iconic foods. Originating in Cornwall, this pastry filled with a mixture of beef, potatoes, onions, and swede has been a favourite for centuries.
Stargazy Pie
Traditionally made with fresh fish, this pie is topped with whole fish heads poking through the crust, giving the appearance of the fish “stargazing” at the sky. The dish dates back to the 16th century and is linked to the fishing village of Mousehole, where it was made to celebrate the successful return of fishermen.
