Rained-Out BBQ? Why the Bank Holiday Family Roast is Britain’s Ultimate Plan B

If there is one thing we can rely on during a British Bank Holiday weekend, it’s the unpredictable Suffolk weather! While many of us had pictured a sunny weekend spent around the BBQ grill, the forecast turning from sunshine to rain means it’s time for a classic British pivot.

Instead of huddling under an umbrella trying to light damp charcoal, why not bring the family around the dining table for the ultimate indoor feast? The humble roast dinner is the undisputed champion of comfort food—and it’s the perfect excuse to gather everyone together.

At Revetts, we believe you shouldn't have to compromise on quality to feed your family well. Here is a look at what Britain loves most on their roast plate, and how you can serve up a butcher-quality family feast this Bank Holiday without stretching your budget. 

What is the UK’s Favourite Roast Meat? (The Data)

Have you ever wondered which meat takes the crown on Britain's roast dinner plates? National dietary surveys and YouGov consumer research reveal some fascinating insights into our roast dining habits:

• Beef is Still King: Year after year, Roast Beef holds the top spot as Britain's favourite centrepiece, capturing nearly 39% of the vote. Older generations in particular champion beef as the ultimate Sunday treat.  

• Chicken is the Family Budget Hero: Roast Chicken comes in a close second (hovering around 27%). It is especially favoured by younger families and millennials due to its versatility, quick cooking time, and unbeatable value.  

• Seasonal Shifts (Lamb & Pork): While beef and chicken remain consistent year-round, roast Lamb surges in popularity during spring and late summer Bank Holidays. Meanwhile, Pork with crispy crackling remains the secret favourite for feeding big families on a sensible budget.  

  
  

Sensible Prices, Properly Prepared by Your Local Butcher

Cooking a big family roast shouldn't feel stressful—or overly expensive. While supermarket meat joints are often pre-packaged with excess water and little trimming, buying from your local butcher offers real value for money.  

At Revetts, our focus has always been simple: unbeatable quality meat, prepared properly by expert hands, at sensible, fair prices.

When you order your roasting joint from us, our skilled butchers do the hard work for you:

• Expertly Trimmed & Tied: Cuts are properly prepared so they cook evenly, remain tender, and don't shrink away in the oven.  

• Right Portion, Right Price: Whether you are feeding a family of four or hosting a full house of extended family over the long weekend, we help you pick the exact size you need so nothing goes to waste.  

• Flavour You Can Trust: Sourced with care, our meats offer the rich depth of flavour that only traditionally butchered, quality meat can deliver.  

Pick Your Bank Holiday Centrepiece

If the Suffolk rain is keeping you indoors this Bank Holiday, here are four butcher-approved cuts to warm up the kitchen:

1. The Classic Beef Topside or Rib: Rich, succulent, and perfect paired with fluffy Yorkshire puddings and proper gravy.  

2. Rolled Pork Shoulder with Crackling: Outstanding flavour, brilliant crackling, and one of the most cost-effective ways to feed a hungry crowd.  

3. Local Leg or Shoulder of Lamb: Studded with garlic and fresh rosemary, lamb delivers a rich, comforting Bank Holiday feast.  

4. Whole Free-Range Chicken: Quick to cook, easy to carve, and great for leftover sandwiches the next day!

Make It a Bank Holiday to Remember

Don't let rainy weather ruin your Bank Holiday plans. Swap the damp BBQ tongs for an oven tray, set the table, and let the aroma of slow-roasted meat fill the house.

Pop into Revett’s shop or order via phone 01728 746263 to secure your family roasting joint for the weekend. Good food, properly prepared, at prices that make sense.