We are thrilled to announce that food author Di Murrell will be joining the Royston Pike lecture series for the first time this spring.
Di will present an illustrated talk based on two chapters from her latest book, "Riverfed: A Culinary Journey down the Thames", sharing her unique experiences working on canal boats and barges across Britain's inland waterways.
In her talk, Di will recount fascinating stories, such as how limes picked in Ghana and processed in Hemel Hempstead became the last regular freight on the English canal system, and why Canadian wheat from Alberta was transformed into flour in Weybridge. Attendees will also learn about the Thames, the revival of the grain trade in the 1980s, and the significance of the historic 'Free Water Clause'.
About Di Murrell
Di Murrell has dedicated most of her adult life to navigating inland waterways, transporting goods like lime pulp, coal, and grain. For over twenty years, she has explored Europe's canals and rivers. She began her writing career later in life, earning the prestigious Sophie Coe Prize for Food Writing in 2012 for her piece "Food on the Move".
Her second book, "A Foodie Afloat", was awarded the Gourmand World Cookbook Award for 'Best in the World' in the 'Tourism and Food' category in 2020. Di writes a regular blog, "Written in My Kitchen", and contributes to the French food history journal "Petits Propos Culinaires". She has delivered talks at various institutions, sharing her rich experiences and insights.
She shares her time between England and France where she has a property in Burgundy.
Join us for an engaging evening with Di Murrell as she takes us on a culinary journey down the Thames, blending history, personal anecdotes, and the art of food writing.
Event Details:
- Date: Thursday 13 March
- Time: 7.30pm
- Location: Riverhouse Barn Arts Centre, Manor Road, Walton-on-Thames KT12 2PF
- Tickets: £4 per person
Read more information about the full Royston Pike programme.
Get more Elmbridge news
Stay up-to-date on council and borough news through WhatsApp and our newsletter.
Join Elmbridge Borough Council’s WhatsApp
Sign up to the Elmbridge Borough Council newsletter