Celebrity chef shares fond memories of weekly visits to Swindon

Celebrity Chef Reflects on Swindon Memories

One month after closing his only Wiltshire restaurant, celebrated chef Rick Stein shared his warm recollections of Swindon. Known as a restaurateur, TV presenter, and cookbook author, Stein recently shuttered his Marlborough location on October 5.

Rick Stein’s Connection to Swindon

Despite his national fame alongside figures like Jamie Oliver and Gordon Ramsay, Stein revealed in an interview with the Swindon Advertiser that much of his early 20s were spent traveling weekly to Swindon.

“When I was a young lad and attending Oxford University, I used to come to Swindon every week to print the student newspaper called The Cherwell,” he said.

“I haven't been to Swindon in many years and I should probably go back, but I do have very fond memories of it.”

“The town always makes me think of the smell of the printing press and brings it all back.”

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Author's Summary

Rick Stein’s journey from weekly trips to Swindon for printing to becoming a celebrated chef reveals his deep connection to the town and the challenges faced by the hospitality industry.

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Swindon Advertiser Swindon Advertiser — 2025-11-08