Nancy Birtwhistle

Great British Bake Off 2014 winner Nancy Birtwhistle is a force of nature who not only grows her own fruit and veg but rears her own poultry and grows her own Christmas tree. She is a regular host and demonstrator at large food shows where audiences love her practical no-nonsense approach to cooking – and recipes that really work!

There's more to Great British Bake Off 2014 winner Nancy Birtwhistle than meets the eye — a self-taught home cook who only took up baking seriously when she retired from her 36-year full-time job as a practice manager for a GP's surgery in 2007. And, like everything she turns her hand to, she became really rather good at it.

Full of energy and brimming with ideas, Nancy takes on challenges head on. Whether it is training a dog (who made it to Crufts) or doing a degree at 40, she doesn't do things by halves.

Born and brought up in Hull and the surrounding areas, Nancy Birtwhistle's first memories of baking are Christmas baking with her grandmother. ‘I now realise that she did indeed have a significant part to play in my love of baking. She was a true home baker and never used a recipe book'.

Through devouring books, taking tips and inspiration from people she meets and lots and LOTS of trial and error, Nancy has acquired an incredible depth of knowledge about cooking and baking. She knows what works and what doesn't. She loves the creativity of baking and the simple rewards of watching others enjoy something she's created.

Now a grandmother herself, Nancy is determined to pass on her skills and knowledge to the next generation and show people that with a little bit of time, a lot of patience and a few simple ingredients – you really can make a perfect showstopper!

Clean & Green: 101 Hints and Tips for a More Eco-Friendly Home
Motivated by protecting the planet for her ten grandchildren, Nancy decided to change how she used plastic, single use products and chemicals in her home. Sharing her tips online, she amassed an engaged international following of devoted fans interested not only in her delicious recipes, but also her innovative ideas and time saving swaps that rethink everyday household chores to make as little an impact on the environment as possible. in 2021 she published her first book, Clean & Green: 101 Hints and Tips for a More Eco-Friendly Home.

Nancy Birtwhistle is always delighted to perform as an after dinner speaker, talking about her journey from doctor’s receptionist to the 2014 Great British Bake Off winner.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Clients often ask about purchasing books for giveaways and delegate packs. Below you’ll find a selection of products by Nancy Birtwhistle. Click the images to view on Amazon's website. For bulk orders, please speak with your Booking Agent.