Business Details
Traditional Butchers in Great Shelford
Established in 1843, Barker Bros Butchers is a family-run business now in its fourth generation, rooted in Great Shelford, Cambridge. Our heritage spans over 175 years, built on a commitment to sourcing high-quality, locally produced meat and produce. As proud members of the Q Guild of Butchers for over 25 years, we uphold rigorous standards of excellence, ensuring every product meets our exacting criteria. Our open-plan shop showcases the care and transparency we apply to butchering, allowing customers to witness our dedication to craft. With a team of experienced butchers, we offer expert guidance and a welcoming atmosphere, making meat selection accessible and enjoyable. We prioritise animal welfare, sourcing free-range, high-welfare livestock from trusted local farms, including Harlton Farms and Somersham.Our extensive range includes traditional and trendy cuts, award-winning sausages, homemade pies, and a curated selection of deli products. We serve both individual customers and businesses, offering local deliveries and catering for private events. Our longevity reflects our passion for quality, community engagement, and adapting to modern needs while preserving traditional values. Whether you seek everyday essentials or speciality cuts, we remain dedicated to providing exceptional service and products that meet the highest standards of taste and integrity.
Services
Fresh Meat
Deli Produce
Custom Cuts
Meat Deliveries
Homemade Pies
Award-Winning Sausages
Poultry Selection
Catering Services
Highlights and features
- We have over 175 years of heritage in providing quality meat.
- Our team includes fourth-generation family butchers and experts.
- We source meat exclusively from local, high-welfare farms.
- Our open-plan shop ensures full transparency in our butchering process.
- We are proud members of the Q Guild of Butchers for over 25 years.
Associations and certifications
- Q Guild of Butchers
Services
Fresh Meat
We source free-range, high-welfare beef, lamb, and pork from trusted local farms. Our beef is aged for at least 21 days to enhance tenderness and flavour, while our lamb and pork come from breeds selected for superior taste and texture. Customers can request custom cuts or explore our traditional and trendy options.
Deli Produce
Our deli offers British and Continental cheeses, cured meats, and homemade pies. We stock Watergull apple juices, local free-range eggs, and freshly baked baguettes. The range includes Mrs Barkers popular meat pies, scotch eggs, and sausages made with family recipes.
Custom Cuts
Our skilled butchers prepare bespoke cuts to meet specific customer needs. Whether you require a traditional joint for roasting or a trendy steak like Tomahawk, we ensure precision and quality. Special requests are welcomed in-store or via delivery.
Meat Deliveries
We offer local meat deliveries for businesses and private events. Our service ensures fresh, high-quality cuts arrive promptly, tailored to your requirements. Contact us via phone or online form to arrange delivery within our served areas.
Homemade Pies
Mrs Barkers homemade meat pies, including steak and kidney, chicken and ham, and mince beef varieties, are a shop favourite. Available in individual and family sizes, these pies are made using traditional recipes passed down through the Barker family.
People
Stuart Barker
Owner + Head Butcher
Stuart has led the business since age 14, combining family tradition with modern butchery. He mentors the team and shares meat expertise through blogs and in-store advice.
David Barker
Owner + Butcher
The original 'OG Butcher', David founded the current shops legacy. He remains a key figure, sharing his extensive knowledge and passion for quality meat.
Richard Barker
Butcher
With decades of experience, Richard specialises in cooking techniques and meat preparation. His expertise ensures customers receive informed guidance on cuts and recipes.
Ali Smith
Butcher
Ali, a loyal team member since 2000, knows regular customers intimately. His dedication to quality and service makes him a trusted face at the counter.
Georgia Bridges
Butcher
Georgia transitioned from Saturday girl to full-time trainee butcher. Her friendly approach and attention to detail make her a valued addition to the team.
Questions
What are your opening hours?
We are open Tuesday to Friday from 8am to 5pm, and Saturday from 8am to 1pm. Closed on Sundays and Mondays.
Do you offer meat deliveries?
Yes, we provide local meat deliveries for businesses and private events. Contact us via phone or online form to arrange delivery.
Are your meats locally sourced?
Yes, we source beef from Harlton Farms, pork from Somersham, and lamb from Lincolnshire and Cambridgeshire farms, prioritising local suppliers.
What awards have you won?
Our Shelford Special sausages have won multiple awards, crafted using a secret herb recipe passed down through the Barker family.
Do you offer custom meat cuts?
Yes, our butchers can prepare bespoke cuts to your specifications. Simply ask in-store, and we’ll accommodate your request where possible.
Are you part of any accreditation schemes?
We are proud members of the Q Guild of Butchers, a mark of excellence in butchery standards, held for over 25 years.
