Business Details
Your Trusted Butcher in Cirencester Since 1808
Established in 1808, we are a family-owned butcher business rooted in the Cotswolds, dedicated to delivering exceptional meat products through traditional butchery and modern innovation. Our commitment to quality begins with sourcing from local farmers who prioritise animal welfare and sustainable practices, ensuring every cut of meat reflects our respect for natural farming. With a heritage spanning three generations, we combine historical expertise with state-of-the-art facilities to serve both individual customers and professional clients in the hospitality industry.Our services extend beyond retail, offering private butchery solutions, wholesale supply, and hands-on masterclasses that educate customers about meat preparation and culinary techniques. We operate multiple shops across the Cotswolds, supported by a dedicated team of 47 staff who uphold our values of provenance, fair trade, and customer satisfaction. Our historic Cirencester shop, now a Grade II listed building, remains a testament to our enduring legacy and passion for excellence in butchery.
Services
Butcher Shops
Masterclasses
Private Butchery
Wholesale Meat Supply
Next-Day Delivery
Highlights and features
- We are a third-generation family-owned business with 217 years of heritage in butchery.
- Our meat is sourced from local farmers committed to animal welfare and sustainability.
- We offer hands-on masterclasses to educate customers about meat preparation techniques.
- We provide next-day delivery six days a week to hospitality businesses and homes.
- Our team of expert butchers combines traditional skills with modern food safety standards.
What people say
Exceptional meat quality
Engaging masterclasses
Knowledgeable staff
Reliable delivery service
Historic charm
Services
Butcher Shops
Our butcher shops offer a curated selection of ethically sourced meats, including beef, pork, lamb, and seasonal game. Each cut is prepared by skilled butchers using traditional techniques to ensure optimal flavour and texture. Customers benefit from expert advice on cuts, cooking methods, and recipe ideas.
Masterclasses
Hands-on masterclasses teach participants about meat preparation, butchery skills, and cooking techniques. Sessions are led by experienced butchers in a relaxed environment, with options for private events and themed courses like sausage making and festive beef preparation.
Private Butchery
We provide bespoke butchery services for livestock producers, including custom cutting, packaging, and labelling. Clients can request specific specifications for meat cuts, sausage blends, and branded packaging to meet their business or personal needs.
Wholesale Supply
Wholesale services deliver fresh meats and prepared foods to pubs, restaurants, and cafes. Orders placed by 10pm qualify for next-day delivery, ensuring professional kitchens receive consistent, high-quality ingredients for their menus.
Next-Day Delivery
Our logistics network provides next-day delivery six days a week to hospitality businesses and retail customers. Orders are handled with strict temperature controls to maintain freshness and meet food safety standards.
People
Richard Hawes
Managing Director
Third-generation butcher and Managing Director, Richard Hawes has led the business since the 1980s. He oversees operations and maintains the company's commitment to quality and tradition while expanding its services.
David Hawes
Co-Owner
David Hawes, co-owner and third-generation butcher, manages day-to-day operations alongside his brother John. He focuses on maintaining the business's heritage while adapting to modern customer needs.
John Hawes
Co-Owner
John Hawes, co-owner and third-generation butcher, works with his brother David to ensure the business upholds its standards of quality and service across all locations and operations.
Danny Clarke
Manager
Danny Clarke manages the Cirencester butcher shop, ensuring daily operations align with the company's commitment to excellence in customer service and product quality.
Marley Thorn
Manager
Marley Thorn manages the Elkstone branch, overseeing retail operations and maintaining the business's reputation for high-quality meats and customer engagement.
Questions
What services does Jesse Smith & W.J Castle offer?
We provide retail butchery, wholesale meat supply, private butchery processing, next-day delivery, and hands-on masterclasses for individuals and businesses.
How can I join the Jesse Smith Steak Club?
Visit our website to register for the Steak Club, granting you exclusive early access to limited-edition steaks sourced from local farms.
Do you deliver to hospitality businesses?
Yes, we offer next-day delivery six days a week to pubs, restaurants, cafes, and hotels. Orders must be placed by 10pm for guaranteed delivery.
Are your masterclasses suitable for beginners?
Yes, our masterclasses cater to all skill levels, with expert butchers guiding participants through techniques from basic butchery to advanced meat preparation.
Can I customise private butchery orders?
Yes, we offer bespoke butchery services, including custom cutting specifications, packaging, labelling, and branding options for livestock producers and smallholders.
What areas do you serve?
We operate in the Cotswolds, including Cirencester, Tetbury, Elkstone, Burford, and Northleach, with delivery services extending to surrounding regions.
