In our own times, issues of the sustainability of food production and equity of its distribution are hot topics. In this series of fourteen talks, different historic places explore how food was produced and consumed in the past to help inform discussions on the future of food and drink

For Sir John Soane, Pitzhanger’s gardens were as important as the Manor, which he designed as a space for hospitality and entertainment centred around food. In his kitchen gardens, he grew a variety of herbs and vegetables, and he kept the lake stocked with fish not only to provide dinner but also an opportunity for social interaction. Drawing on the detailed records of Soane and his wife Eliza’s diaries, this talk will explore the major role that food played in their life.

Clare Gough is Director of Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery. She joined Pitzhanger in 2016 and oversaw the £12M three-year conservation project to restore this rare and extraordinary example of Sir John Soane’s architecture to his original vision. The newly restored Manor and Gallery re-opened to the public in March 2019. Soane Restored, an exhibition that reveals the fascinating story of the restoration, runs at Pitzhanger until May 2022.

The London Luminaries is a group of historic organisations who collaboratively work together to share knowledge and ideas about heritage.

This varied banquet of fourteen talks will explore the cultural dimensions of food and drink. The series runs from 5th October to 17th November 2022 and details of the other talks can be found at ticketsource.co.uk/luminaries.

Find out more at www.londonluminaries.com