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ShareA great barbecue starts long before the fire is lit—it begins with exceptional ingredients. That's why, as part of our Best of British series, we're celebrating Paddy Ryan Butchers (A. Ryan & Sons), a family-run butcher in Much Wenlock that has been supplying high-quality, ethically sourced meats for over 50 years.
Last week was National Butchers' Week, a week dedicated to shining a light on local food heroes across the UK. The Best of British series at Kadai celebrates skilled butchers, traditional craftsmanship, and the importance of choosing quality, locally sourced meat over mass-produced alternatives.
A Butcher's Shop with Tradition & Craft at Its Core
Paddy Ryan Butchers reflects the tradition of British butchery, where quality and craftsmanship take centre stage. Known for their commitment to high-welfare, locally sourced meats, their expert team offers quality cuts, handcrafted sausages, and house-made pies that are second to none.
Here's why we love them:
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Locally Sourced, High-Welfare Meat – They work closely with trusted Shropshire farmers, ensuring their meat is ethically reared and full of flavour.
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A True Family Business – Founded by Paddy Ryan in 1969, this family-run butcher's shop has been serving generations of customers, offering expert knowledge and personal service.
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Award-Winning Pies & Sausages – Their legendary pork pies are so popular that they opened a dedicated pie shop, Pig & Pie, right next door! From hearty steak and ale to classic pork pies, their range is a must-try.
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A Cut Above Supermarket Meat – Unlike mass-produced options, their meats are hand-selected, traditionally butchered, and sourced with care, ensuring superior quality and taste.
Why Local Butchers Matter for a Kadai BBQ
When it comes to live fire cooking, the quality of your ingredients makes all the difference. Cooking over flames brings out the natural flavours of the meat, meaning there's no hiding behind artificial additives or mass processing. That's why choosing local, high-welfare, and properly aged meats from a butcher like Paddy Ryan's elevates your barbecue experience.
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Better Quality & Freshness – Locally sourced meat is fresher, properly butchered, and full of natural flavour, a world apart from supermarket alternatives.
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Ethical & Sustainable – Supporting local butchers means supporting high-welfare farming practices and reducing food miles.
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A Butcher's Expertise – Whether you need the perfect steak for searing, the best sausages for grilling, or something special for slow cooking, a skilled butcher offers expert advice tailored to your Kadai BBQ.
Browse our Kadai BBQ Cookware Accessories here
Paddy Ryan's & The Art of Pie-Making
Of course, no mention of Paddy Ryan's would be complete without talking about their legendary pies. From their iconic pork pies to steak and kidney classics, they've mastered the art of pastry and filling. Their Pig & Pie shop, located right next door, is a local favourite, well known for its handcrafted pies, which have become a staple for many in Much Wenlock and beyond.
Bringing It All Together
This National Butchers' Week, why not support your local butcher and bring the best of British, ethically sourced meat to your next Kadai BBQ? Whether it's succulent steaks, handmade sausages, or a perfectly crafted pork pie to serve on the side, Paddy Ryan Butchers is a true champion of quality, sustainability, and great-tasting food.
Discover more in our Best of British series as we continue to highlight the UK's finest local food artisans!
Best of British: Ludlow Farm Shop