Cheesed Off! Nottingham’s Food Riots (1750-1800)

In October 1766, the Mayor of Nottingham was bowled over by a gigantic cheese, during protests at the high price of food in Nottingham. Food riots were the most common form of popular protest in 18th century Britain, with regular, often physical, disturbances against the high price of flour, wheat, bread and dairy products. As an important centre of manufacturing and a town with a large and growing population, Nottingham was central to these disturbances, raising practical and moral issues of right and legitimacy for the authorities to resolve.

This interactive talk, cheese tasting and discussion will introduce attendees to Nottingham's food protests in the later-18th century. Dr Richard Gaunt, a historian of popular protest and radicalism, and Dr Denise Amos, a food historian, will consider different dimensions of the protests, and the elements of rhyme and reason which underpinned them. The event will include a guided walk of 'Rebellion Gallery' at Nottingham Castle, which introduces visitors to the town's rebellious history.

This event is part of the University of Nottingham's festival Hub programme.

If you are interested in this event, then you may also be interested in other events Nottingham Hub has to offer. Find out more through the links!