Though available all year round, it comes into its own during the Christmas season, becoming a centrepiece of buffets, Boxing Day spreads and cosy winter suppers.
This timeless favourite blends heritage, hearty flavours and a touch of nostalgia.
A Slice of History
Pork pies have deep roots in British culinary tradition. The raised hot-water crust and seasoned pork filling originated centuries ago, with recipes varying from region to region.
While Melton Mowbray pork pies are the best known, many families have their own preferred bakery or butcher that must supply the Christmas pie each year.
Over time, pork pies became associated with midwinter festivities. They’re portable, filling and keep well—ideal for gatherings, picnics, carol concerts and those long countryside walks that are a must between Christmas and New Year.
Why Pork Pies Are a Christmas Staple
There are a few reasons this simple dish has become an annual festive favourite:
• Perfect for Boxing Day
After the main event of Christmas dinner, Boxing Day calls for cold cuts, simple meals and easy entertaining. Pork pies pair beautifully with leftover ham, cheeses, chutneys and pickles. Set them out on a buffet table and you’ve an instant feast.
• Low-stress hosting
Whether you’re welcoming friends who pop round unexpectedly or laying out a mid-afternoon snack between family visits, a pork pie needs no fuss. Slice, serve and enjoy.
• Something for everyone
Traditional pork pies remain popular, but festive varieties now include cranberry-topped pies, game pies, stilton-enhanced versions, and even pork-and-apple combinations. There’s a style to suit every palate.
• A nod to tradition
Much like mince pies, Christmas cake or a cheeseboard, pork pies bring a sense of continuity. Many families insist Christmas hasn’t properly begun until their favourite pie has been bought (or baked!).
Regional Traditions
Different parts of the UK embrace pork pies in their own unique ways:
• The East Midlands:
Melton Mowbray pies are often served at breakfast on Christmas morning.
• Yorkshire:
Some families enjoy pork pies with a dollop of piccalilli as part of their festive tea.
• The Black Country and West Midlands:
Bakeries and butchers produce extra-large “celebration” pies for sharing, often surrounded by sausage rolls on a party platter.
Serving Ideas for Your Christmas Table
If you’d like to elevate your pork pie this year, try:
A proper pickle selection: onion, beetroot, gherkins and classic Branston.
A Christmas chutney such as cranberry, fig or spiced apple.
A winter salad with watercress, apple and celery.
A wedge of Stilton or mature cheddar on the side.
Warming mulled cider or a good ale for pairing.
Should You Make Your Own?
Homemade pork pies take time, but they’re wonderfully rewarding. Hot-water crust is surprisingly hardy, and festive recipes often include sage, black pepper and a little nutmeg. Baking your own pie also gives you the option to craft an impressive sharing centrepiece with decorative pastry stars or holly leaves on top.
The Heart of a British Christmas
From village butchers to farm shops and supermarket deli counters, pork pies embody comfort, tradition and a taste of home. Whether part of a Boxing Day lunchtime, a quiet Christmas Eve nibble, or a New Year’s celebration, they deliver familiar flavours and festive cheer with every slice.
If you want to try a different Christmas tradition this year, start with something simple: put a pork pie on your table and enjoy a centuries-old British classic.