Plymouth is a city rich in history from its harbours and naval heritage to its historic streets and local traditions. Among these traditions, one has stood the test of time: the pasty. But behind the city’s beloved pastry lies a story of determination, family, and community, the story of Ivor Dewdney.
Long before the Dewdney name became synonymous with pasties across Plymouth, it started in a small kitchen in Plympton. Ivor Dewdney, a young man with a passion for baking, began making pasties by hand and selling them to locals. What began as a modest home-based venture quickly became a favourite among neighbours, earning him a reputation for quality and consistency.
Encouraged by growing demand, Ivor opened his first official pasty shop on King Street in 1939. It was a bold move for a young entrepreneur, and it quickly became a fixture in the community. Locals knew they could rely on the Dewdney shop for a freshly baked pasty any day of the week.
The outbreak of World War II tested Plymouth and its people, and the Dewdney bakery was no exception. Despite rationing and air raids, Ivor remained committed to keeping his shop open. His determination ensured that locals and servicemen alike could still enjoy a warm pasty during difficult times. This resilience cemented Dewdney’s reputation not just for baking, but for being a steadfast part of the community.
After the war, the business grew steadily. In the 1950s, Ivor moved to a larger shop on Cornwall Street, expanding his capacity and bringing pasties to even more Plymouth residents. The bakery became a city landmark, a place where generations of families stopped by for a treat, and a symbol of local pride.
Ivor’s passion for pasties extended to his family. Over the years, the Dewdney pasty business has remained in family hands, passing from generation to generation. Each new chapter in the business built on the foundation Ivor laid: a commitment to quality, a focus on community, and a respect for tradition. Today, the Dewdney name continues to be synonymous with Plymouth pasties, cherished by locals old and new alike.
What makes the Dewdney story special isn’t just the food, it’s the way a simple pastry became a symbol of connection. Families share pasties at lunches, picnics, and celebrations. Locals recall childhood memories of queuing outside the shop, while newcomers discover the joy of a hand-baked pasty for the first time. It’s a tradition that links Plymouth’s past to its present and reflects the enduring spirit of the city itself.
Even today, conversations around pasties in Plymouth are lively. Everyone seems to have an opinion on who makes the best, and the Dewdney name is always part of that conversation. It’s a reminder that food isn’t just about taste, it’s about history, memory, and local pride.
The story of Ivor Dewdney is a story of Plymouth itself: a tale of determination, family, and community spirit, all wrapped up in a simple, warm pastry
Photographs and Video © Wayne Perry / Plymouth Post