10 reasons to visit the Stranraer Oyster Festival

Did you know that the last sustainable native oyster bed in Scotland is located on the southwestern coast? These local oysters are the focal point for an annual festival each autumn in Stranraer. More than a tonne of oysters will be consumed, and here’s why you should join in the festivities!

1. It’s unique

Scotland’s last remaining wild, native oyster bed sits under the waters of Loch Ryan and is a stone’s throw from the festival site. This year the Stranraer Oyster Festival will take place from 13th-15th September.

2. Scotland’s best food festival

Stranraer on the south west coast of Scotland, is situated in a stunning area. It’s accessible by bus and train from Glasgow and by ferry from Northern Ireland as well as being well served by the A75 trunk road running through Dumfries and Galloway.

3. It’s delicious

There will be more than just oysters – around 50 local food and drink producers take part in a huge artisan market, including several boutique distilleries. There is also great tasting street food stalls – the giant paellas, created by the Henrys Bay House Restaurant team, are legendary!

4. It’s community-led

Run by the local community, the festival has kickstarted the regeneration of this former ferry port town – it’s a great story of community action. Last year’s festival saw more than 20,000 people flock to experience the three-day festival, generating more than £2 million for the local economy.

5. It’s seasonal seafood

The British native oyster season starts on 1st September. Native oysters can only be harvested in months with an ‘R’ in them, avoiding the summer breeding season.

6. It’s eco-friendly

These oysters are marine ecosystem heroes and the festival has the environment at its heart, including oyster shell recycling and an Eco Zone. 

7. Never tried one?

There’s nothing elitist about the oysters at this festival, the team behind the huge oyster bar coach thousands of visitors each year on the best way to enjoy their first oyster. So come along and pop your oyster cherry.

8. It’s competitive

With a shout of “Shuck-Off!” to the competitors, the festival will crown the Scottish Oyster Shucking Champion who will go on to compete in the World Championships.  

9. It’s got celeb chefs

TV regulars Tony Singh, Cyrus Todiwala, Julie Lin and Jimmy Lee are taking part this year, plus Green Michelin Star holder Pam Brunton. Chef demonstrations are often sold out, so be sure to follow the festival’s social media for your chance to nab some tickets.

10. It’s fun for everyone

It’s a family friendly event with a packed programme filled with activities and entertainment for young people. And since dogs are an important part of many families, well behaved pooches are welcome too!