Chef Xanthe Gladstone on Foraging and Adventuring in North Wales

iBestTravel is proud to feature Xanthe Gladstone, an organic grower and chef based in North Wales, who plays a pivotal role in food sustainability at the Hawarden Estate’s Good Life Experience festival, farm shop, and Glynne Arms restaurants. Moreover, her connections extend to Glen Dye Cabins & Cottages in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. A graduate of the prestigious Ballymaloe Cookery School, Xanthe emphasizes that food education is fundamental to healthy eating.

What Brought You to North Wales?

Xanthe explains her connection to North Wales through family roots, claiming it to be the ideal place after leaving London. The stunning landscape of Wales enchants her, as it is more accessible than people often realize. Additionally, she mentions the incredible birdsong during the summer, which strengthens her bond with nature.

What Inspires You Most as a Chef?

Xanthe finds great inspiration in growing her own produce. As a vegetarian, her culinary creations predominantly feature vegetables. Furthermore, her passion for foraging, particularly mushrooms during autumn and winter, enhances her cooking experience. Whenever she feels a lack of inspiration, simply taking her dogs for a walk outdoors rejuvenates her creativity.

How Would You Describe the Community in This Region?

The community in North Wales is characterized by open-mindedness and a shared enthusiasm for learning. Xanthe observes thriving changes through various projects they are undertaking, such as establishing a bakery and preparing to launch an on-site pizza van. They aspire to supply their café, restaurant, and pub exclusively with local produce, and the community’s response has been overwhelmingly positive.

Where Would You Head If You Were Showing a Friend Around for 24 Hours?

Xanthe would take her friend to Snowdonia for walking and swimming. Located just an hour away, it offers breathtaking views that capture the essence of Welsh culture.

Your All-Time Favourite Spot?

Her favorite location is Newborough beach in Anglesey, where visitors stroll through beautiful woodland before arriving at the stunning beach ideal for swimming. Although she acknowledges there are many other areas to discover, she continues to return to this cherished spot. On her way back, she enjoys stopping at the Tide café by the Halen Môn sea salt company, where she savors a local dressed crab served with homegrown salad leaves and house-baked bread.

An Interesting Discovery?

Xanthe notes a common myth that it rains more in Wales than in other parts of the UK, which she believes to be unfounded. In her experience, the weather is often beautiful, even during rainfall, as it still presents an exceptional landscape.

Follow Xanthe Gladstone on Instagram at @xanthegladstone.