Book Review: Vegetarian Britain

Vegetarian Britain
Alex Bourke and Katrina Holland

Published by Vegetarian Guides (2002)
320 pages

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I have found this book incredibly useful. I often travel around the UK on business. Although I have a generous expense allowance, I am always happier dining in a back-street low-budget café that specializes in good veggie food than in a posh business restaurant offering a token goat's cheese lasagne. (That said, the book lists many upscale establishments as well. The point is that every entry is chosen for its veggie-friendliness.)

Without this book, I never would have discovered the Orange Tree in Cheltenham, Room 101 in Brighton or Hitchcock's in Hull - all excellent eating places. Those three examples alone would justify the cost of the book.

There are around a thousand places listed in all, including hotels, B&Bs, full-service restaurants, cafés and carry-outs. Most entries show the postal address, phone number, opening hours, smoking policy and whether credit cards are accepted. There are also many detailed reviews; these often recommend specific dishes, and include sample prices. Most of the entries also point out the extent to which vegan options are available.

My only complaint is that, where directions are given, these are invariably addressed exclusively to motorists. Often, the only public transport information is the name of the nearest railway station, which is pretty useless in places like Cheltenham and Brighton.

That apart, I can find no fault in this extremely useful book. Whether you live in Britain, or are planning a vacation or business trip here, this book is well worth a place in your luggage.

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