The Craster Smokehouse Restaurant is a historic establishment located in the picturesque village of Craster in Northumberland, England. The restaurant is known for its traditional smokehouse techniques and delicious kippers, which have been a staple in the region for centuries.
A Taste of History
The smokehouse, owned by the Robson family for over four generations, has recently been given listed status by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. Built in 1856, it is one of the few remaining smokehouses from the once-thriving herring industry in the area.
The smokehouse's preservation is a testament to the village's rich fishing heritage. During the mid-1800s to the early 1900s, smokehouses were a common sight along the coast, preserving locally caught fish for national and international markets. However, the decline of the herring industry in the 1920s and 1930s led to the closure of many smokehouses.
The Craster Kipper Tradition
Craster has long been associated with fish curing, and L Robson & Sons is the only remaining fish curing business in the village. They continue to produce Craster kippers using traditional methods. The herring is hung on tenter hooks and smoked for 16 hours over fires fueled by whitewood shavings and oak sawdust.
Although the popularity of kippers as a tea-time staple has waned over the years, they still have a devoted following. Even the late Queen was known to enjoy them, and you can find L Robson's Craster kippers stocked at Waitrose.
Preserving Craster's Cultural Identity
The listing of the smokehouse as a grade II historic building provides it with special protection. Sarah Charlesworth, the listing team leader for Historic England in the north, highlights the cultural significance of kippers in Craster's identity and the smokehouse as a physical embodiment of the village's character and fishing history.
While there have been challenges such as the decline in herring stocks and the need to import from Norway, the smokehouse remains a symbol of Craster's heritage. Neil Robson, the current owner, humorously contemplates the future, jokingly suggesting turning the smokehouse into a museum if herring becomes scarce.
Who owns Craster Kippers?
The Robson family has owned the Craster Smokehouse for four generations.
Does Craster have a pub?
Yes, Craster is home to The Jolly Fisherman, a popular pub that offers delicious seafood and stunning views of the coast.
In Conclusion
The Craster Smokehouse Restaurant stands as a living testament to the rich fishing history of Craster and the Northumberland region. Its traditional smokehouse techniques and renowned Craster kippers continue to delight visitors and locals alike. Despite the challenges faced by the fishing industry, the smokehouse's listed status ensures its preservation for future generations to appreciate and enjoy.
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