The Dunmow Flitch Trials are held every four years in Great Dunmow, the last time in July 2016, and can be traced back to 1104. Chaucer even mentioned them in his bawdy The Wife of Bath’s Tale written in the late 14th century! Contestants are married couples from anywhere in the world who can satisfy the Judge and Jury of 6 maidens and 6 bachelors that in ‘twelvemonth and a day’, they have ‘not wish themselves unmarried again’. Winners of the Trials are awarded a flitch of bacon after historically having sworn an oath kneeling on two sharp pointed stones in the churchyard. They would then be carried through the village in the Flitch Chair. The original kneeling stones and 15th century Flitch chair can still be seen within the Little Dunmow Parish Church.The historical Flitch of Bacon has had an amazing transformation with a high-end modern open kitchen where there is even a table at the copper chef’s pass. This destination restaurant is sumptuous and welcoming.Tim Allen – chef and partner at the Flitch of Bacon – formerly the Executive Head Chef at Michelin starred The Wild Rabbit in Kingham. A Yorkshireman by birth Tim started his career cooking locally before moving to the South of England. Prior to Tim’s seven year tenure at Whatley Manor, he worked for four years with John Burton Race, first at L’Ortolan.Tim has teamed up with his wife and business partner Magali to bring their very special combination of exquisite food and exceptional service to Essex.