Celebrity chef shares fond memories of weekly visits to Swindon

Celebrity Chef Shares Fond Memories of Swindon

A celebrity chef has reflected on his fond memories of Swindon, one month after closing his only Wiltshire restaurant. Rick Stein, known as a chef, presenter, and restaurateur, owns a chain of popular restaurants across the UK and has authored several cookbooks.

Closure of Wiltshire Restaurant and Postponed Tour

On October 5, Stein closed his sole Wiltshire restaurant located in Marlborough. Shortly after, he postponed his theatre tour that was supposed to come to Swindon this winter.

Rick Stein’s Connection with Swindon

In an interview with the Swindon Advertiser, Stein shared memories of his time in Swindon, his new book, and the current economic difficulties faced by pubs and restaurants.

Despite his widespread fame—alongside chefs like Jamie Oliver and Gordon Ramsay—the 78-year-old revealed that much of his early 20s was spent traveling weekly to Swindon.

"When I was a young lad and attending Oxford University, I used to come to Swindon every week to print the student newspaper called The Cherwell," he said. "I haven't been to Swindon in many years and I should probably go back, but I do have very fond memories of it. The town always makes me think of the smell of the printing press and brings it all back."
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Swindon Advertiser Swindon Advertiser — 2025-11-08