Lancashire Peelers

Lancashire peelers are straight peelers with a fixed blade.

The stainless-steel blade has a pointed tip, which is used for digging eyes out of potatoes.

Some models will be suitable for both left- and right-handed users; others only for right-handed.

Traditionally, the middle of the handle has tightly-wound string around it. While providing a distinctive look, the purpose is actually to give users a better grip on the handle.

The handles on modern ones are usually black plastic now. Fancier, more sleek models may have the handles made of stainless steel: these are likely to omit the wound string in order to maintain the sleek look.

The peelers are particularly known for being used for peeling potatoes. In fact, the peelers are named after Lancashire because Lancashire was a traditional potato growing area.

Not everyone is a fan of them, though, for use with other produce. One reviewer wrote: “The blade cuts into potato peel ­easily without gouging too deep, but is not so good with softer-skinned fruits.” ^[1]The Test: Peelers. Manchester, England: The Guardian. 3 December 2009. Accessed August 2020 at https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/gallery/2009/dec/02/food-and-drink-homes