English market town known as the country’s ‘rural food capital’ with the world’s first pork pie museum
WHILE the festive season might have come to an end, the country’s obsession with pork pies and stilton cheese shows no sign of wavering.
Located in Leicestershire, the market town of Melton Mowbray is often promoted as the country’s Rural Capital of Food thanks to its ties to Pork Pies and Stilton Cheese.
The world-famous Ye Olde Pork Pie Shoppe started life as a bakery.
It was opened by John Dickinson in the mid-19th century who was following in the his family’s footsteps.
John’s grandmother, Mary Dickinson, is credited with creating the very first Melton Mowbray Pork Pie.
Mary used a wooden dolly to raise the pastry before adding jelly to protect the meat inside, with the town making the ‘picky bit’ ever since.
Following a revamp last year, Ye Olde Pork Pie Shoppe has a section dedicated to educating visitors on the history of pork pies.
The display includes historic artefacts and archive photography.
Another pork pie display also exists in Melton Carnegie Museum.
Housed inside Melton’s former Carnegie Library, the museum opened in the 1970s and depicts the history of the town.
Melton Mowbray is also the centre of the production of Stilton cheese in the UK.
While the origins of the creamy, blue-speckled, cheese are disputed, it is thought it was made in the area around Melton Mowbray in the 18th century.
Melton Mowbray also hosts a farmer’s market on the third Friday of the month, so there’s plenty of keep foodies occupied.
Aside from its ties to food, Melton Mowbray is also where Saxon coins were minted during the reign of King Aethelred II.
It’s even where Edward VIII, the former King of England, and Wallis Simpson met.
Other nearby attractions include Twinlakes Park, dubbed the best amusement park in the East of England.
The amusement park has an indoor play area with slides, a play palace, a mirror maze and family-friendly coasters.
Entry tickets start from £19.99 per person.
There’s also Melton Country Park, which has over 140 acres of open green space.
Melton Mowbray is a 90 minute drive from Birmingham and it’s a 45 minute drive from Leicester.
Three other market towns to visit in England
Here are three other market towns in England that Brits can visit.
Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire
Known as the birthplace of William Shakespeare, this picturesque town offers a rich history and beautiful Tudor architecture. The weekly markets and the historic buildings make it a delightful place to explore.
Ludlow, Shropshire
Famous for its food and drink, Ludlow has a lively market scene, with markets held several times a week. The town is also known for its medieval castle and well-preserved historic buildings.
Totnes, Devon
Totnes is known for its bohemian atmosphere and vibrant arts scene. The market town has a reputation for its independent shops, local produce markets, and a strong sense of community.
The fairytale town of Knaresborough is also thought to be big this year too, and was once popular with royal staycationers.
And here are three seaside towns which are the best in the UK, according to an expert.