British Pies: A Timeless Delight & A Taste of Tradition

From ancient origins to modern favourites - A history of pies

Did you know that the concept of pies dates back to ancient civilisations? The earliest pies were found in Ancient Egypt and Greece, where they were made with simple crusts of oats or barley and stuffed with honey or meat. However, it wasn't until the medieval era that pies truly took root in Britain. Back then, crusts (known as "coffins") were primarily used as a vessel to preserve the filling-and weren't even meant to be eaten!

By the 16th century, pies had become a symbol of indulgence, often gracing the tables of royalty. Over time, they evolved into the hearty, farm-fresh dishes we love today. Farms across England embraced pies as a way to make use of seasonal ingredients and preserve food through the colder months. From pork pies in Melton Mowbray to the iconic steak and kidney, pies have earned their place in British hearts and stomachs.

Our favourite pie recipes

At Farmison, we believe that our executive head chef, Jeff Baker, has created some of the best pie recipes that you can experience, from timeless classics to new and exciting creations, we have a pie recipe that will transform your pie cooking skills.

Here is a list of some of our personal favourites:

Steak & Ale pie recipe

Roast chicken pie recipe

Pork pie recipe

Cottage pie recipe

British pie week

What makes British pies so beloved? It's the perfect balance of flavour and tradition and that's why on the first week of March every year British pie week is celebrated across the country with friendly competitions and sharing of recipes to bring the best of British pies to our communities. This is your sign to keep an eye out for those pie eating competitions and events for British pie week.

Introducing the Roast Chicken Pie & Longhorn Steak Pie

We're proud to launch two exceptional pies that honour this rich tradition:

Roast Chicken Pie: Tender pieces of chicken slow-cooked in a creamy, herby sauce are wrapped in a crisp, buttery crust. This pie is comfort food, perfect for a Sunday dinner or a midweek treat.

Longhorn Steak Pie: Made with premium Longhorn beef, this pie is packed with flavour. Each bite is a symphony of tender steak, rich gravy, and perfectly baked pastry. Ideal for those who appreciate bold, hearty dishes.

Both pies are made with high-quality British ingredients, ensuring every mouthful is fresh, sustainable, and bursting with flavour.

Fun facts about pies

• The first recorded pie recipe comes from ancient Rome and featured a rye crust filled with goat cheese and honey.
• Pies became popular in farming communities across England as a practical way to use up leftovers and preserve food.
• During the 19th century, pie-making competitions became a beloved pastime, particularly in northern England.
• There's even a dedicated "British Pie Week" celebrated every March to honour this culinary icon.

Why our pies stand out

At the heart of every great pie is quality, and we've spared no effort in crafting ours. From artisan techniques to the finest British ingredients, our Roast Chicken and Longhorn Steak Pies are a testament to our commitment to excellence. Here's what sets them apart:

Sustainability: We work with British farms to ensure sustainable practices.

Flavour First: Our recipes are designed to let natural flavours shine.

Craftsmanship: Each pie is carefully handcrafted for the perfect balance of crust and filling.

What to serve with British Pies

Pair your pie with classic sides for the ultimate meal. Mashed potatoes, garden peas, or a rich onion gravy are timeless accompaniments. Hosting a dinner party? Serve slices of pie with a light salad for a rustic yet elegant main course. And for those quick, cosy nights, just heat a slice and enjoy it with your favourite beverage.

Food for thought

British pies are more than a meal-they're a celebration of tradition, flavour, and craftsmanship. With the launch of our Roast Chicken Pie and Longhorn Steak Pie, we're excited to continue this legacy, bringing the best of British cuisine to your table. Order yours today and experience the magic for yourself. Check out our pies & pastry page here.