Judging by its castle and centuries old pubs, you likely know that the cobbled streets of Rye are full of history. But did you know its local woods are full of wild boar?
It’s true—and at the end of every October, the town comes together to celebrate the native creature with Wild Boar Week. Restaurants serve up uniquely local dishes prepared with boar and other game caught right outside town. Farmers’ markets stock up with boar, pheasant, venison, and more. And pubs and community centres throw vibrant parties and musical dinners.
This year, Wild Boar Week 2017 will take place from the 21st to 29th of October. At Beside the Sea, we’re counting down the days—and filling up our cottages!
In preparation for Wild Boar Week 2017, we’ve rounded up some can’t-miss events that embody the spirit of this uniquely Rye celebration. Read on for some guidance for planning your week.
Wild Game Tastings
No Wild Boar Week is complete without trying local game, and you’ll be spoilt for choice when it’s time to dine.
Start off by digging in at the Forager’s Supper Club at The Gallivant. On the first Saturday of Wild Boar Week, they’re serving a menu of wild boar and foraged ingredients, put together by local suppliers and five-star chefs.
Seeking to sample more than boar? Landsgate Bistro will serve a six-course Game of Rye menu on Thursday night. Dishes like venison tartare, spiced pigeon breast, and wild duck and beetroot soup are all created with ingredients sourced within five miles of Rye. Add the wine pairing option for an extra special night out.
Indulge in a send-off meal on the last Saturday night of Wild Boar Week 2017 from Tatner’s. True to the spirit of the celebration, they’re preparing dishes like glazed boar belly ribs and wild boar and smoked sausage ragout. Even better: the beloved caterer is serving his menu at Olde Worlde Wines, so you can pair your meal with wines from across the globe.
Wild Boar Week 2017 Cooking Class
Want to learn how to prepare wild game dishes like East Sussex experts? Reserve a coveted spot at Webbe’s game cooking class.
Since opening The Wild Mushroom, a locally sourced restaurant within a farmhouse, owner Chef Paul Webbe has built a reputation as a leader of foraging-focused cuisine. This intimate class at his cooking school teaches attendees how to butcher and prepare local game like pheasant and venison.
Be advised: this event is a favorite among Wild Boar Week enthusiasts and books early. You’ll want to make a decision quickly—especially if you’d like to bring a guest to the special game lunch.
Farmers’ Markets
A weekly staple in Rye, farmers’ markets are where locals go to get the freshest game year-round. Stop into Brede Farmers’ Market on Friday—this village market is chockfull of jams, juices, and breads, and some of the proceeds go towards charities and maintaining the Brede village hall. On Wednesday, you can find fresh baked goods and organic produce at Rye Farmers’ Market.
V.J. Game, Rye’s trusted local game merchant, will sell wild boar, venison, partridge, pheasant, duck, guinea, pigeon, and hare at both markets. Browse their selection of steaks, diced meat, and sausages, or place an advanced order and pick it up at the market.
Live Music
Tap your toes to live jazz at The Mermaid Inn, one of England’s most historic inns, built in the 12th century. On Thursday, a full band will perform the songs of respected musician Duncan Lamont, and tickets are available for both supper and the show or the show alone.
Or stop into The Bull Inn throughout the week for two different musical events. On Wednesday night, local musicians will perform at the weekly open mic. Finish out Wild Boar Week with by catching a jazz quartet featuring Neil Richardson on Saturday night.
Saturday Night Halloween Party
Don your best boar mask (optional, of course) and revel with the locals at the Halloween Party at Rye Community Centre. This bring-your-own Halloween celebration benefits the Rye Bonfire Society and is the perfect way to end your Wild Boar Week with a bang.
See all the off-the-wall costumes and dance late into the night with tunes from The Rockitmen. Prizes are awarded for best dressed, so come prepared to compete!
Need a spot to stay during Wild Boar Week 2017? Our self-catering accommodations are minutes from Rye in idyllic Camber Sands. Come enjoy the tranquility of the beach with the whole family—babies and dogs are welcome here—and call our home yours as you celebrate Wild Boar Week 2017!.
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