Queen Camilla’s food critic son and ex-football legend, Sir David Beckham, have joined forces to guest edit a one-off edition of Country Life Magazine, which was published today. Tom Parker Bowles, 50, joined the former footballer to prepare the ingredients of David’s favourite dish in the kitchens at luxury hotel Claridge’s before they ate together.
Sir David Beckham spoke about his favourite British dish while the two cooked: “There’s something so nostalgic about mashed potato, liver, bacon and lots of gravy. It’s one of those British comfort classics that my mum used to make for me and was also my grandad’s favourite dish.”
He added: “My gran was also a great cook, and it was always a treat going down to the pie and mash shop in Chapel Market. If I had to choose my last meal, it would be pie, mash, liquor and jellied eels.”
David Beckham, the former England football captain, has long expressed admiration for the Royal Family. In recent years, Beckham has shifted towards countryside living, rural skills (notably beekeeping), and charitable work, and the King places his own emphasis on similar activities.
Beckham once presented King Charles with a jar of honey he harvested himself, and they met at the King’s Gloucestershire home in Highgrove to compare beekeeping tips and rural interests.
David and Victoria Beckham split their time between their Holland Park townhouse in London and their sprawling £12m Cotswolds mansion, which they purchased in 2016. Beckham has developed his love of countryside pursuits, including beekeeping.
In 2024, Beckham was appointed an ambassador of The King’s Foundation. The organisation focused on community regeneration, traditional skills, sustainable food production, nature and heritage.
Beckham, the father-of-four, who was awarded a knighthood in June, follows in the footsteps of Royal Family members who previously joined the editor-in-chief Mark Hedges at the helm, including the King, the Princess Royal and the Queen.
Mr Hedges said: “David has produced an outstanding issue. His love and knowledge of the countryside is exceptional and he has given the Country Life team a huge amount of his time and access to aspects of his life that our readers will find truly fascinating.”
Country Life’s special guest edit from Sir David is available from October 22 until October 28.