River Cottage

The first guests to our fantastic new events space have been impressed.

We lost our barn and kitchen to a dramatic fire in the first week of February.

But in little over two weeks we've created an amazing temporary space to host events and our Cookery School.

We've still got plenty of new ideas, but we're proud of what we've achieved so far.

Despite his shock, Hugh has been staggered by the team's progress.

"It just shows what incredible spirit and enthusiasm and professionalism the RC team has mustered to pull this off," he said.

Here's what our guests had to say about their visit to River Cottage HQ in recent days:

I didn’t know what to expect. I came in yesterday and I was speechless, absolutely speechless. The facilities are amazing, and as the first ones to use it, it’ll be in my memory for ever. I thought Hugh was a workman when he walked past with a high-vis jacket on! Richard Price, South Wales (Four Days at Park Farm).

The facilities are amazing - far more sophisticated then I was expecting. It's great everything is up and running in time for our course. I’ve been cooking all my life and I still managed to learn new things which was absolutely brilliant. Alison Jackson, Wotton-under-Edge Gloucestershire (Four Days at Park Farm).

What I experienced yesterday was incredible. I was taken aback by the friendliness of the people, and the food is simply gorgeous. The space is massive and serves its purpose perfectly. It's modern crammed with brand-spanking-new equipment. Sivanesan Ramamoorthy, Belfast (Four Days at Park Farm).

The team has worked furiously hard to get an amazing teaching facility up and running within an astonishingly short time. Gill Meller and Steve Lamb have taught us beautifully, and Hugh spoke with such grace last night. I am a lucky girl to be having such a lovely time. Sonja Miller, via Facebook (Four Days at Park Farm).

I am also on the course with Sonja and have had the most amazing day. I cannot stop smiling. Thank you Steve and Gill for your patience and to all the staff for your hospitality, kindness and genuine friendliness. You would not have believed it was the first day at the new space! Special thanks must go to Sean, the washing up fairy, who washed up all day with a smile on his face! Becky Mills, via Facebook (Four Days at Park Farm).

The first day in the new space was incredible. Beautiful facilities. Hugh and his team's passion is infectious - it rubs off on you. It's like being magical world. Gerald Swift, Bristol (Four Days at Park Farm).

Given this was the first post-fire event, the yurt and marquee were very welcoming. James Mortimer (Friday Night at River Cottage).

Given the fire I was amazed you were up and running so quickly. The facility was great. Justin Hearn (Saturday Night at River Cottage).

This was our 2nd visit to HQ, already looking forward to planning the third! Roger Shotliff (Friday Night at River Cottage).

As soon as I can scrounge another weekend away from work, I'll be making that 500-mile round trip! I loved the barn and have eaten there a couple of times, but the occasion was STILL an occasion. Iain Fazackerley (Saturday Night at River Cottage).

Amazing turn-around. Fantastic venue! Jenny Rushbrooke (Saturday Night at River Cottage).

Let's face facts it's not cheap, but the quality, quantity
and brilliant service made it worth every penny. 
Dave Newman (Saturday Night at River Cottage).