About us

Like all young boys, I developed a passion for fire and flames at an early age, helped along by our family’s love of camping and the great outdoors. By the time I was a teenager, I was learning to experiment with my own cooking as I was permanently hungry! During the growth spurt years, one meal was never enough!

At 18, I was handed a wonderful opportunity to live in South Africa for 6 months, playing local cricket in Johannesburg. Braaing (Barbequing) was a way of life out there and I learned from the masters. I went on to spend many happy years in South Africa, learning more and more along the way.

I have since travelled the world for my cricket career and have been fortunate enough to sample a most diverse range of cuisine and experience many different food cultures. I realised that I loved nothing more than experimenting with food and how it was prepared and cooked.

I retired from cricket in 2013 and was left with a gaping void in my life which I desperately needed to fill. I still have an immense passion for cricket but simply couldn’t find my niche within the game when it came to planning my future.

And so Hoggy’s Grill was born!

I was incredibly lucky to be offered the most beautiful site on the banks of Rutland Water where my Cookery School and Grill Shop will be based. We have grills to suit every taste, preference, fuel source and budget and I will offer a personalised service to ensure you and your Barbeque are a perfect

partnership. My Cookery Courses will demonstrate how to achieve the best results from your grill and the Cookery School will host regular events with exciting brands and personalities for you to enjoy.

I am very excited about the future of Hoggy’s Grill and I cannot wait to welcome you along on this adventure! I look forward to seeing you all and bringing Al Fresco cooking to life in the UK.

- Matthew Hoggard

Meet Our Team

No grill chef can function without a chief taster on board; please meet my very critical Chief Meat Monster, Ernie Hoggard. Nothing gets past his discerning taste buds and he is never shy to criticise! Sometimes, particularly when chilly, I like company at the Grill at home.

Meet Walter, Norman & Frank, loyal grilling companions always! They would gladly sample all the meaty experiments but tit-bits and leftovers are few and far between in our house!!!

And finally, my other half, better half and full time speaker of the truth, Sarah! Hoggy’s Grill would not exist or indeed function without her! But primarily, she is my Chief Champagne Taster, Menu Creator and organiser of my entire life!  

Norman & Frank

Norman & Frank

Ernie, Me, & Sarah

Ernie, Me, & Sarah

Frank

Frank

Our Partners

Rutland Water

There is nowhere better than Rutland Water Park to enjoy time in the great outdoors. Whether you are looking for some adrenalin-fuelled fun or a relaxing break from the daily hustle and bustle, we’ve got what you’re looking for.Set around beautiful Rutland Water and covering 4,200 acres of open countryside, the park offers everything from walking and cycling to fishing and watersports.

There is also our fantastic nature reserve, managed by the Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust and home to the Rutland Osprey Project. Expert or novice, everything you need to make the most of your visit is right here, including cycle hire and expert tuition on boat handling.And of course, you will also find a choice of places to enjoy a cuppa or a bite to eat.