British Pie Week: A Celebration of the Nation’s Favourite Comfort Food
Every year, as March rolls around, food lovers across the UK come together to celebrate one of the nation’s most beloved culinary traditions—British Pie Week. This annual event is a chance to indulge in the rich, hearty and oh-so-satisfying world of pies, from classic favourites to inventive new creations. Whether you prefer a crisp and golden shortcrust pastry or a flaky puff pastry lid, there’s no denying the comfort and nostalgia that comes with a well-made pie.
A Brief History of British Pies
Pies have been a staple of British cuisine for centuries, with their origins tracing back to medieval times. The earliest versions, known as “coffyns,” were made with thick, inedible pastry used purely to encase and preserve meat. Over time, the pastry evolved into an essential part of the dish, becoming as celebrated as the fillings inside. Today, every region of the UK boasts its own signature pie, from the rich and juicy Melton Mowbray Pork Pie to the humble yet satisfying Lancashire Butter Pie.
Classic Pies You Need to Try
British Pie Week wouldn’t be complete without tucking into a few traditional favourites. If you’re unsure where to start, here are some must-try pies that have stood the test of time:
Steak & Ale Pie – Slow-cooked beef in a rich ale-infused gravy, encased in buttery pastry.
Chicken & Leek Pie – A creamy and comforting classic, perfect for a cosy night in.
Pork Pie – A cold-cut pie with a hot water crust, traditionally eaten with mustard or pickle.
Shepherd’s/Cottage Pie – A pie without pastry but still a staple, topped with a golden crust of mashed potato.
Butter Pie – A Lancashire favourite, featuring layers of buttery, seasoned potatoes in a crisp shortcrust pastry.
If you’re feeling ambitious, why not try making one of these at home? British Pie Week is the perfect excuse to roll up your sleeves and get baking.
A Twist on Tradition: Modern Pie Ideas
While traditional pies hold a special place in British hearts, there’s always room for a little creativity. Here are some of our unique pies that bring something different to the table:
Chicken Tikka Rogan Josh Pie – A fusion of two beloved dishes, combining aromatic Indian spices with tender chicken, all wrapped in golden pastry.
Pork, Apple & Cambozola Pie – A delicious balance of savoury and sweet, with rich pork, tangy apple, and creamy Cambozola cheese.
Crab & Prawn Mac and Cheese Pie – A seafood lover’s dream, featuring indulgent mac and cheese with fresh crab and prawns, all baked into a crispy crust.
Curried Cauliflower & Potato Pie – A hearty vegetarian option packed with bold spices and satisfying textures.
Spiced Sweet Potato & Spinach Pie – A warming, wholesome combination of sweet potato, aromatic spices, and fresh spinach in a flaky pastry shell.
Get Involved and Share Your Creations!
British Pie Week is about more than just eating pies—it’s about celebrating the tradition, craftsmanship, and comfort they bring. Whether you’re baking, buying, or simply enjoying a slice of your favourite pie, be sure to share your creations on social media using #BritishPieWeek.
What’s your favourite pie? Are you trying something new this year? Let us know in the comments and let’s celebrate the wonderful world of pies together!
