Every September, as Britain’s native oyster season begins, some of the country’s fastest shuckers and most inventive chefs descend on one of London’s longest-standing seafood institutions. This year, the London Oyster Championships return to Bentley’s on Friday 18th September, coinciding with the restaurant’s 110th anniversary.

The afternoon begins with the Speed Shucking Oyster Open, where competitors race through a series of knockout heats to see who can open oysters with both speed and precision. The eventual winner earns the chance to represent England at the World Oyster Opening Championships in Galway, with this year’s field including regional champions from Manchester and Brighton alongside representatives from restaurants including Bentley’s, Wiltons, Franco’s, Bob Bob Ricard and Notting Hill Fish Shop.

Later, attention turns to the Best Dressed Oyster competition, where chefs swap speed for creativity, topping oysters with everything from bright seasonal dressings to more unexpected combinations. Previous winners have included Fallow’s Jack Croft and Will Murray, while this year’s line-up features chefs from Bouchon Racine, Brigadiers, Logma, The Sea, The Sea, The Suffolk and more, with the winning oyster earning a place on Bentley’s menu.

Alongside the competitions, guests can expect Champagne from Charles Heidsieck, oysters throughout the afternoon, live entertainment and a limited series of VIP masterclasses exploring oyster provenance, shucking techniques and tasting with Rossmore oyster grower, Tristan Hugh Jones.

The Details: 

Ticket Information:

– Standard Ticket – £55 (goody bag, welcome drink, stout lager, Rock  & native oysters, after party access)

– VIP Ticket – £95 (goody bag, welcome drink, stout lager, Rock & native oysters, Bentley’s snack, oyster masterclass, after party access)
Address: 11–15 Swallow Street, London W1B 4DG
More information here