The Lamprey in British History

This paper, written from an archaeozoological perspective, highlights the former abundance and importance of lampreys in Britain as eaten by both kings and commoners. A short biology of the three lamprey species is followed by sections on fishing methods, archaeological evidence, documentary data and culinary practices. However by the nineteenth century they were no longer favoured on the table and became more popular and lucrative as fish bait. Thereafter pollution and blocked waterways led to a severe decline in numbers for the migratory sea and river lampreys, these two species were preferred for eating to the small freshwater brook lamprey. Although they remain heritage foods in other European countries, in Britain lampreys are now just part of the vulnerable species list and a lost part of British culinary heritage.