Renowned chef Tom Kerridge recently opened up about his unique and unsettling childhood connection to Fred and Rose West, two of Britain’s most notorious criminals. Kerridge, who grew up in Gloucestershire, shared insights about his early life just a stone’s throw from the infamous West family home, later dubbed the “house of horrors” due to the gruesome crimes committed there.
Now 52 and based in Marlow, Buckinghamshire, where he runs the Michelin-starred restaurant The Hand and Flowers, Kerridge remains closely linked to Gloucestershire. He routinely visits the county several times a year, often for rugby matches featuring his beloved Gloucester team.
During an appearance on the Red Talks podcast, Kerridge discussed the proximity of his childhood home to 25 Cromwell Street, the address associated with numerous murders perpetrated by Fred West between the 1960s and 1980s. Some of these atrocities were committed alongside Rose West, while others were carried out solely by Fred.
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Kerridge recalled, “My brother and I used to walk past that house every day. Next door was an art college where my dad worked as a lecturer when my parents were together. So, as kids, heading past that house was part of our routine.”
He also revealed that his brother attended the same school as one of Fred West’s sons. Reflecting on the grim history, Kerridge’s brother mentioned, “I always thought he was weird.”
Fred West died by suicide in prison in 1995 before his trial concluded. Rose West was convicted in the same year on ten counts of murder and is serving a life sentence.
In addition to sharing these personal experiences, Kerridge spoke about his own rise to fame. His Marlow pub was the first in the UK to earn two Michelin stars, cementing his reputation as one of the country’s leading chefs. He has also become a familiar face on television, most notably through appearances on shows like Great British Menu.
Despite his celebrity status, Kerridge admits he is uncomfortable with fame. “I’m not into fame; I find it a bit strange when people recognize you,” he said. “But it comes with working in hospitality. I like my own space, my own pubs, so it’s a little odd when you’re walking around and people know who you are.”