This year’s National Butchers’ Week runs between 7th and 13th March and highlights the great work being done by butchers from around the UK. As part of National Butchers’ Week, we thought we would showcase some of the amazing meat producers operating in Dorset and why we should be supporting this traditional trade.
Things you should know about butchers
- Did you know that butchery has been taking place since the paleolithic times? In fact, the first evidence of butchers existing was found in an area of land that is now in Israel. Archaeologists discovered some remains that showed signs of being carefully cut alongside a range of tools made of stone.
- The first Butchers’ Guild in the entire world was established in England in 1272, making it a staple in British high streets.
- These days, independent butcher shops are few and far between, but there are still some much loved producers working around the country selling the finest cuts of meat.
- Did you know that butchers don’t just cut up meat? They are also experts in their field, so if you’re not sure what you need, how many cuts or how to cook it, make sure to ask your butcher, they’ll be able to help!
If you want to support local butchers this National Butchers’ Week, take a look at some of the producers below.
Brace of Butchers in Poundbury have a team of specialist butchers who can offer over 64 cuts of meat! The shop not only features a butchery, but is also able to offer products from a range of different companies from all over Dorset – you can do your whole weekly shop in one visit!
When it comes to finding the perfect cut of meat, don’t think you have to limit yourself to more traditional cuts. Take a look at the Dorset Game Larder, they supply a variety of quality game across the region, all sourced from local, quality shoots. So if you want to try something a little different or want to branch out, make sure to check what is on offer. They even create their own sausage rolls and game wellingtons.
As we’re coming up to Easter, no doubt you’ll want to get your orders in ready for a leg of lamb to eat on the big day. Dorset Lamb are based at a small family farm in Milton Abbas and specialise in producing high quality grass fed lamb. All their butchery is carried out locally and you can often find them at farmers’ markets across Dorset where you can sample some of their lamb dishes, including burgers and koftas.
In Blandford Forum, you’ll find the Dorset Meat Company who was founded with the aim to provide you with the best grass fed, outdoor reared meat, all produced sustainably and then delivered straight to your door. They prepare each order by hand and deliver it direct to your door, making supporting local butchers even easier!
Looking for more meat producers?
