A Lake District chef is set to showcase Cumbrian talent on national television after landing a spot on BBC Two’s hit cooking series Great British Menu.
Jack Bond, head chef and co-owner of The Cottage in the Wood near Keswick, will represent the North West region in the prestigious culinary contest. The programme sees top chefs from across the UK battle through regional heats for a chance to cook at a grand banquet.
The current series marks the show’s 20th anniversary and follows a “Great Britons” theme, with contestants creating dishes inspired by influential historical figures from their region.
Bond said becoming a father and buying the restaurant with his wife Beth in 2024 gave him the push he needed to apply. He added that he was excited to compete alongside talented chefs and test himself outside his comfort zone.
The judging panel includes returning host Andi Oliver alongside Michelin-starred chef Tom Kerridge, comedian and food podcast presenter Ed Gamble, and former champion chef Lorna McNee.
Filmed challenges see chefs design creative menus that celebrate their region’s heritage, with only the best progressing to finals week and potentially securing a place at the celebratory banquet.
Bond previously impressed judges during the North West heat, serving inventive dishes such as a trout course inspired by poet William Wordsworth and a lamb main celebrating fell walker Alfred Wainwright.
If successful, he could follow in the footsteps of past Cumbrian competitors who have made strong impressions on the show, helping shine a spotlight on the Lake District’s thriving food scene.
