Rye goes wild for Boar Week

Wild Boar Week, billed as “Medieval food in a medieval town”, runs from October 15 - 23 and replaces the Taste of Rye event that is usually held in October to showcase local produce and cooking skills.

The idea has been dreamed up by the same team that organise Rye’s Christmas Feastival and put together the popular Reds Over Rye event earlier this year.

Organiser Roger Crouch explained: “This has been put together by the Rye and District Chamber of Commerce Festival Committee.

“Restaurants taking part are arranging not just menus of wild boar but also other food that would have been found in the medieval era such as pheasant, venison and partridge amongst other mouth watering delicacies.

Jonathan Breeds, proprietor of the Standard Inn, commented: “I am very pleased to take part in an exciting new venture that can be built on in the future”

Offerings range from a two night break with one of the nights including a five course medieval themed dinner with local wine at Strand House, a wild boar Sunday lunch at Ye Olde Bell and a medieval set meal with a glass of mead at the Standard Inn.

Details of menus and restaurants taking part can be found at wildboar.org.uk.

Roger Crouch said: “We thought this would create a bit more interest than the Taste of Rye Festival.

“Rye is already famous for its food and we hope this festival will continue that. I am very grateful for the enthusiasm for the event shown by the establishments taking part.

“With Rye’s rich medieval history, what better way to visit the town, take in the atmosphere, walk amongst the medieval streets and enjoy a meal from that era.

“It is the perfect backdrop and the restaurants taking part just exude a welcoming ambiance.”