Planning

ahead

Here’s a selection of some of the biggest annual events across

the UK to give inspiration for future experiences.

Events for exceptional

food and drink

I

f you’re after expertly cooked food, set in the

charming surroundings of a cathedral city, St

Albans Food and Drink Festival which takes

place each year might just sway you. A range

of experiences are on offer, from tastings and

special menus to workshops, demonstrations and

more. Visitors can enjoy pop-up restaurants, discover

produce from local traders and even step foot in a

professional kitchen.

Or what about in the grounds of a UNESCO World

Heritage site? Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire is one

of the grandest estates in Britain and its annual food

festival provides the perfect excuse to visit. The event

is described as a ‘gastronomic weekend’, with a superb

line-up of celebrity chefs and activities for all ages to

keep visitors entertained. On offer is more than 150

food and drink exhibitors which includes artisan

bakers, craft brewers, gourmet burgers and international

cuisine - and ice cream and other handmade sweet treats for

dessert. Although next year’s dates are yet to be confirmed,

the event is usually held towards the end of May.

Looking ahead to the festive season, Cornwall is set for

the annual Padstow Christmas Festival. Returning from

3rd until 6th December, Rick Stein, Paul Ainsworth and

Nathan Outlaw will be on-hand for chef demonstrations.

Over the last decade, the festival has showcased artisan

breads, cakes, chocolates, meats, cheeses and preserves

and other products including alcoholic spirits from local

Photo credit: James Ram.

• Above: Blenheim Palace. Inset: Padstow Christmas Festival.

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Festivals, Shows & Events