Prue Leith: 'You Come Into Your Own Growing Old'

Age Is Just a Number (or So Says Dame Prue)

Let's face it: we're all a little terrified of getting older. The inevitable gray hairs, the creaky joints, and that growing list of things we can't do anymore — it's enough to make even the most confident person question their place in the world. But not Dame Prue Leith. She's 86 now, and she's having none of it.

"You come into your own, you don't care what people think, you're not going to change. And so the world has to just put up with it."

I met Prue Leith recently at a BBC Gloucestershire event and she was full of energy, her eyes twinkling as she discussed how aging has actually been a gift — not a burden. She's clearly spent a lot of time reflecting on her life's journey, and what she's come to realize is that the golden years are anything but dull.

The Stress-Free Life

She described her teenage years as 'really stressful,' full of uncertainty and second-guessing. "I was always bringing the wrong boys home," she said with a laugh, clearly remembering the chaos of adolescence. "I was quarrelling with my parents... I didn't know what I wanted to do."

But now? Age has given her a new kind of freedom. "Old age is unstressful," she declared, as if it were an absolute truth. No more worrying about what others think, no more pretending to be someone you're not — just a woman who's lived enough to know exactly who she is.

A Life Well-Lived

Prue's philosophy on ageing isn't just about feeling good about getting older — it's about living with intention and joy. She's been involved in various creative projects, from her cookery writing to her appearances on screen, including the delightful Prue Leith's Cotswolds Kitchen, where she gets to be a little more 'bossy' than usual.

The kitchen isn't just a space for cooking — it's a symbol of her autonomy. "It's quite domestic, and it's filmed in our house, so that's even better," she explained, her eyes lighting up as she talked about the garden and the rolling Cotswolds views outside her window.

She may be old enough to know when to take a nap, but she's certainly not ready to slow down. In fact, she seems more excited now than ever — especially with her upcoming talk at the Cheltenham Literature Festival on October 15th. Her topic? Growing Old Disgracefully. Sounds like a great title for a memoir.

Cheltenham: A Place of Belonging

Prue's connection to Cheltenham runs deep — it's not just a place she visits occasionally, but one where she feels truly at home. She's been coming back to the festival for years and has fond memories of past appearances.

"I love Cheltenham; I often go even if I'm not doing anything," she said with a grin. "It's a great festival." And it's clear why — the literary scene there is rich, vibrant, and just as welcoming as Prue herself.

A New Chapter

Prue's message to us all? Age isn't something to fear or fight against — it's something to celebrate. It's a time of freedom, reflection, and, dare I say it, fun. She may no longer be young, but she's still full of life.

As she puts it: "Old age is unstressful." What a thought to carry into the weekend — or any day, really.

Final Thoughts

Prue Leith's journey offers a refreshing take on aging — not just for her, but for all of us. We're often told that youth is the only time worth living, but Prue reminds us that there's more to life than just the first act. The second act? It's where you really start to shine.

So here's to growing old disgracefully — with style, confidence, and a healthy dose of humor. And maybe, just maybe, a few well-deserved naps along the way.