Tales From River Cottage
Tales From River Cottage is a TV show on SBS ONE. The program has been available since 2024. A total of 8 episodes have been broadcast, most recently in December 2024.
Last episode
24:19
24:19Tales From River Cottage
Hugh explains how the river and sea offer the smallholder a combination of escape and adventure, as well as free food - from crabs and cuttlefish to eels and pike - for fantastic fishy feasts. The beach is also a great place for a party, and can even make a practical contributio...
Catching up on Tales From River Cottage?
Don't want to miss an episode anymore? Set up a free alarm and receive an email when new episodes are available. Handy!
24:16When it comes to acquainting yourself with the curious local customs of your newfound rural home, Hugh's basic message is - get stuck in, and no half measures. Hugh recalls how he learned new rural skills such as hedge-laying, charcoal-making, and mouse charming, and immersed himself in bizarre local antics, such as the an...
24:10The difference between a veg garden and a smallholding is simple - livestock. And the first item of livestock every downshifter needs is a chicken or two. Hugh recalls the highs and lows of his poultry learning curve, from acquiring his first hens, and teaching them to climb his fox-proof, high-rise chicken hut.
24:19Hugh's argument is that the life of a small holder should not be one of ascetic self denial, but thoroughly good living. To achieve this, you need to be a bit of a wiley entrepreneur, always ready to barter and heckle, and go to market with the excess of your harvest, so you can still have your share of the good things in ...
24:21Good friends and helpful neighbours are an essential part of the rural idyll. Hugh recalls his initiation into the rural Dorset community around River Cottage, with highlights of hospitality at home and away, from a posh dinner at the manor house to a riotous evening at the local Cider Shed.
24:18Hugh celebrates his growing affection for pigs and pork over his three years as a Dorset smallholder. From how to buy a pig, to how to make dry-cured bacon and hams, this is a guide to all things piggy. Hugh also brings us up to date on his beloved breeding sow Delia, who he has even trained to hunt for truffles.
24:20Hugh recalls the progress of his horticultural skills over his three years in Dorset, from putting in his first organic vegetable beds, running the gauntlet of pests, to harvesting bumper crops from his polytunnel. He also offer tips on how to triumph at the local Horticultural show - don't follow his example!
24:15Hugh reminisces about the early days at River Cottage, and offers advice to would-be smallholders on how to find their own rural escape hatch, and get started on the good life. He goes on to recall the early learning curve of beginning a vegetable garden, acquiring livestock, and making new friends, with plenty of tips for...