Watch Escape to River Cottage

Escape to River Cottage is a British television series starring Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall that first aired in 1999. The show follows Hugh as he embarks on a journey to live a more sustainable lifestyle by leaving London and moving to the country in search of a simpler way of life.

The show is set in a remote location in Dorset, England, where Hugh acquires a small cottage and attempts to live off the land by growing his own produce, keeping livestock, and foraging for food. The show was one of the first to focus on sustainable living and self-sufficiency, and it has since become a cult classic that has inspired many people to seek a more sustainable lifestyle.

Throughout the series, Hugh learns how to farm and keep animals, growing his own vegetables and raising his own pigs, sheep, and chickens. He also learns how to make his own bread, cheese, and even his own cider. Along the way, he encounters many challenges and setbacks, including harsh weather conditions, unwanted pests, and unreliable sources of water.

Despite these challenges, Hugh perseveres and gradually begins to build a successful and sustainable way of life. Throughout the series, he also shares his knowledge and expertise with other people who are interested in sustainable living, and he encourages them to embrace a simpler way of life that is more in harmony with nature.

One of the key themes of the show is the importance of understanding where our food comes from and how it is produced. Hugh is passionate about the idea of eating locally grown, seasonal produce, and he highlights the negative impact that industrial agriculture can have on the environment and our health. Through his farming and cooking demonstrations, he shows viewers how they can eat in a way that is both healthy and sustainable, while also supporting local farmers and producers.

Another important theme of the show is the importance of community and working together to create a better world. While Hugh is initially isolated in his cottage, he gradually builds connections with the local community and inspires others to embrace sustainable living. He also demonstrates the importance of collaboration among farmers, producers, and consumers, highlighting the many benefits of a more local and sustainable food system.

Overall, Escape to River Cottage is a charming and inspiring show that has had a major impact on the way many people think about food and sustainability. Through his passion for farming and cooking, Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall encourages viewers to embrace a simpler, more sustainable way of life, while also celebrating the beauty and diversity of the natural world. Whether you are a seasoned homesteader or just beginning to explore the possibilities of sustainable living, this show is sure to inspire and educate you.

Escape to River Cottage is a series that ran for 1 seasons (6 episodes) between January 1, 2001 and on TVF International