Brancaster Oysters and Mussels

Brancaster is renowned for its exceptional oysters and mussels cultivated in the marsh creeks, earning it a reputation as one of the finest in the country. The popularity of oysters has skyrocketed in recent years, posing a challenge to meet the high demand. However, the Brancaster Oyster Farm, a family-owned business, takes immense pride in its product. They are dedicated to delivering the highest quality oysters, ensuring that each one meets their rigorous standards. The farm's commitment to excellence is reflected in the care and attention they devote to cultivating their shellfish, resulting in a truly remarkable culinary experience. Whether enjoyed raw, grilled, or incorporated into delicious seafood dishes, Brancaster's oysters are esteemed for their unparalleled taste and freshness.

The native Oyster (Ostrea Edulis ) and the pacific Oyster ( Crassostea Gigas ) are the two most common oysters found in the UK. Native Oysters are still cultivated in the UK but are not a viable commercial option because they take twice as long to grow to market size. The Pacific Oyster, on the other hand, grows much quicker, taking about two summer seasons to grow to market size.

Mesh bags are regularly thinned out and cleaned of any accumulated silt to allow plenty of growing room. Pacific Oysters don't spawn in the colder waters of the UK, therefore can be marketed throughout the whole year.

Different growers have different systems, but here in Brancaster, the Oysters are cultivated in the marsh creeks, where they benefit from the tidal flow, both when the tide flows in and again when it flows out. Oysters open their shells to capture as much plankton as possible.

Although the seawater here is among the purists in the UK, the Oysters and Mussels are placed in ultraviolet purification tanks before being marketed.

Mussel Men

Oyster Farm

Mussel riddlers

Shucked Oysters

Oyster Spat

Mature Oysters