At a time when the British food industry faces unprecedented challenges, from declining exports to the EU to the economic impact of Brexit and the war in Ukraine, there has never been a more crucial moment to champion British food.<\/p>\n
British Food Fortnight is an annual event organised by Love British Food<\/a>. Now in its 22nd<\/sup> year, the event offers the perfect opportunity to celebrate the diverse and delicious culinary offerings of Great Britain. At The Carlton Hotel, we’re passionate about supporting and championing our local, seasonal, and British produce.<\/p>\n British Food Fortnight 2023 runs from September 16th to October 1st<\/sup> and we are embracing the opportunity to share our passion for sourcing, buying, and serving locally-produced British food.<\/p>\n This time of year is very special and it’s a time-honored tradition for communities to come together and celebrate the harvest. At our hotel, we’re proud to be part of this harvest celebration, shining a spotlight on the rich tapestry of flavours that the British food scene has to offer.<\/p>\n Eliot, our co-owner and head chef here at The Carlton, is a true advocate for British ingredients. Since buying the hotel in 2015 with Michael, they have transformed it into a four-star establishment and focused on working towards culinary excellence.<\/p>\n Eliot is always talking about how grateful he feels to have direct access to what he calls “North Devon’s larder.” From fresh fish landed in the nearby harbour to high-quality meats and regional groceries, he enjoys working closely with local suppliers who have his best interests at heart when it comes to helping him pull together his menus.<\/p>\n One of the key advantages of sourcing locally is obviously freshness. For instance, the fresh seafood available in Ilfracombe is caught on day boats and landed daily, ensuring the highest quality for our guests who come to dine in the Brasserie. Nathan Townsend is the Director of The Devon And Cornwall Fish Co<\/a> which supplies all our fish and seafood. For Nathan, one of the big advantages of sourcing fish and seafood locally is the superior traceability and reduced carbon footprint. We always know exactly how and where our fish was caught and it barely travels any distance at all to reach us.<\/p>\n From premium Exmoor Beef<\/a> to expert advice on seasonal produce, our network of local businesses contributes to both the local economy and environmental sustainability. By minimizing transportation distances by choosing local suppliers, we help to reduce the carbon footprint associated with food production and distribution.<\/p>\n Over the years, Ilfracombe has emerged as the gastronomic heart of North Devon, boasting a vibrant food and drink scene. The town’s “foodie quarter” on Fore Street and the abundance of dining options around the Quay make it a haven for food enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seafood lover, a fan of West Country meats, or simply seeking local, fresh, and delicious ingredients, Ilfracombe has something for everyone.<\/p>\n Photo credit: Becky Craven<\/a><\/p>\n In celebration of British Food Fortnight, Eliot has crafted a special menu featuring delightful dishes like St Austell mussels, Appledore plaice, Devon crab, Exmoor ham, Braunton beetroot, and Exmoor National Park beef. It’s a testament to the incredible flavours that can be found right here in Britain. To try our special British Food Fortnight Menu, why not give us a call to book a table in The Brasserie on 01271 862446.<\/p>\n For those eager to experience the full Foodie Fortnight experience, we’re offering a special accommodation package for a 2-night stay during the week commencing September 25th. This package includes a three-course dinner in our Brasserie each night, freshly cooked breakfast, a bottle of English wine in your room or the lounge, and an afternoon tea on one of the days. It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in the local food culture here in Ilfracombe all from \u00a394pppn based on two people sharing a twin or double room.<\/p>\n Photo Credit: Becky Craven<\/a><\/p>\n Whilst British Food Fortnight does a great job at highlighting the importance of buying British throughout September and October, we believe this is important all year round. We need to consistently support our farmers and food producers if we want to ensure food security for the nation.<\/p>\n So let’s celebrate British Food Fortnight and commit to buying British not just during this special fortnight but throughout the year. By doing so, we secure our food security for the future and savour the wonderfully diverse and delicious food that our glorious country produces.<\/p>\n As British Food Fortnight ends, we also look forward to October, which kicks off National Seafood Month. It’s another opportunity to explore the wide variety of fish and shellfish available in the UK and continue enjoying the culinary treasures of North Devon.<\/p>\n At the Carlton, we’re dedicated to promoting the local food scene and embracing the flavours of Britain. Join us in celebrating British Food Fortnight and savour the remarkable tastes of our region. Your support for British food not only indulges your taste buds but also strengthens our local economy and promotes a sustainable future for food production.<\/p>\n Visit our contact page<\/a> or call 01271 862446 to reserve a table in the Brasserie or book your 2-night stay.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Along with our local suppliers, we celebrate British Food Fortnight. (Photo credit: Becky Craven) At a time when the British food industry faces unprecedented challenges, from declining exports to the EU to the economic impact of Brexit and the war in Ukraine, there has never been a more crucial moment to champion British food. British […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":20,"featured_media":283686,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"The Essence of British Food Fortnight<\/h2>\n
Our Passion for Local Ingredients<\/h2>\n
The Freshness Advantage<\/h2>\n
Supporting the Local Economy and Environment<\/h2>\n
Ilfracombe: A Foodie Paradise<\/h2>\n
A Special Menu for British Food Fortnight<\/h2>\n
![\"A](\"http:\/\/www.ilfracombecarlton.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Food-Drink-photographer-Devon-Becky-Craven-1984-1024x683.jpg\")
<\/p>\nExperience the Foodie Fortnight<\/h2>\n
Join the Movement – Buy British<\/h2>\n
![\"Eliot](\"http:\/\/www.ilfracombecarlton.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Tourism-photographer-Devon-Becky-Craven-2820-1024x683.jpg\")
<\/p>\nBeyond British Food Fortnight<\/h2>\n
Morte Point, Mortehoe Village<\/span><\/h1>\r\nEnjoy a challenging walk through a rare spot of coastal heathland which provides the wonderful backdrop for a wealth of wild flowers and wildlife. \u00a0You might even be lucky enough to spot some of our infamous sealife including dolphins and seals. This wonderful dog walk will take you out into the fresh country air and really give you an opportunity to get the blood pumping with steep ascents, steps and descents to challenge you along the way. \u00a0Adventurers will be rewarded with the discovery of some hidden beaches along the way and for those who enjoy a bit of history, discover why Morte Point has been responsible for many a shipwreck throughout the centuries.[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]\r\n
Saunton Sands<\/span><\/h1>\r\nA short drive or long walk along the South West Coast Path and you arrive at stunning Saunton Sands. \u00a0This particular beach is a favourite for dog walks\u00a0as it welcomes dogs year round. Saunton Sands employs\u00a0easy to follow zoning sections where just the car park and first 5 minutes of your stroll requires that your dog is kept on the lead. \u00a0From here you have the next 3.5 miles of golden sands to explore and enjoy with your four legged friend.[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]\r\n
Hillsborough Nature Reserve<\/span><\/h1>\r\nKnown to the locals as 'the sleeping elephant', Hillsborough Nature Reserve offers a short but testing walk for you and your dog. \u00a0This dog walk takes you past beaches which are also dog friendly so offers plenty of opportunity for a run and a dip in the sea for both of you - especially welcome during those warm summer months! The views provided by this dog walk are glorious - a bird's eye view of Ilfracombe, out to Lundy Island and even as far as the South Wales coast. \u00a0There is so much for nature lovers to enjoy along the way too with an array of wildlife and their habitats to be seen.[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]\r\n
Baggy Point<\/span><\/h1>\r\nAs well as providing a dog friendly route, Baggy Point is also an easy access route which is especially important in opening up our beautiful countryside walks to as many people as possible. \u00a0Considered an easy route, Baggy Point lends itself to those pups who cannot manage a challenging route but still enjoy the great outdoors. \u00a0It is also considered equally good for young children. Baggy Point might be a shorter, easier dog walk than others on our list, but nonetheless it delivers in breathtaking sights. \u00a0The views along the way extend along the coast and out to sea\u00a0and you can also enjoy sightings of our diverse wildlife and sealife - there's plenty to keep everyone captivated along the way.[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]\r\n
The South West Coast Path<\/span><\/h1>\r\nThe Carlton Hotel is delightfully situated in Ilfracombe town centre where you can begin dog walks\u00a0in any direction to end up on the beautiful South West Coast Path. \u00a0Here we have miles and miles of stunning countryside and coastal walks to explore and discover your very own favourite spot. Whilst we have only covered our top 5 dog walks\u00a0in this blog, there are of course so many dog walks here to enjoy and far too many to list . \u00a0The South West Coast Path website<\/a> is an excellent place to begin to plan your local dog walks when you visit us here in Ilfracombe.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row row_padding_top=\"padding_top_none\" row_padding_bottom=\"padding_bottom_none\"][vc_column][vc_column_text]The Carlton Hotel is a dog friendly hotel which welcomes well behaved humans and their four legged friends. \u00a0Our aim is to make your break as pleasurable for your dog as it is for you. \u00a0Inform us when you book<\/a> and we will endevour to ensure all your needs are met, including bowls and dog beds in your room. We look forward to welcoming you and your dog to The Carlton Hotel.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row row_padding_top=\"padding_top_none\" row_padding_bottom=\"padding_bottom_none\"][vc_column][plethora_button button_text=\"Book your dog friendly stay here\" button_link=\"url:http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ilfracombecarlton.co.uk%2Fbook%2F|||\" button_size=\"btn-lg\" button_style=\"btn-primary\" button_align=\"text-center\" button_with_icon=\"0\"][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row row_padding_top=\"padding_top_none\" row_padding_bottom=\"padding_bottom_none\"][vc_column width=\"1\/4\"][\/vc_column][vc_column width=\"3\/4\"][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]","_et_gb_content_width":"","wds_primary_category":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[19,13,548,663],"tags":[344,705],"class_list":["post-283684","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-events","category-offers","category-packages","category-the-brasserie","tag-food","tag-local-suppliers"],"yoast_head":"\n