Food can be a powerful way of connecting people with the landscapes around them, and two recent events organised by the Solway Coast National Landscape did just that. Held at Blue Dial Farm, both the Hedgerow Cookery and Historical Cookery demonstrations were led by local chef John Crouch, offering participants a unique opportunity to explore the Solway Coast through its natural and cultural heritage.
During the Hedgerow Cookery demonstration, participants discovered how plants found within local hedgerows can be identified and used in cooking, helping people gain a greater appreciation for the wildlife and biodiversity that make the Solway Coast such a special place.
The Historical Cookery demonstration took visitors on a journey into the past, recreating dishes and cooking techniques that would have been familiar during the Roman period. The event also included a visit to nearby Milefortlet 21, helping participants connect the food, history and archaeology of the Solway landscape.
While the events focused on different themes, both encouraged people to engage with the National Landscape in new ways. Whether learning about edible wild plants or experiencing the tastes of Roman frontier, attendees discovered how the Solway’s natural beauty and rich history continue to shape the landscape we see today. These events demonstrate that connecting with nature and heritage does not always happen through a walk or a talk. Sometimes, experiencing a landscape can begin with a taste of it.
