If you’re a foodie like me, there’s nothing better than wandering through open-air markets, sipping artisan cider, and sampling freshly grilled street food while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of a food festival. The UK’s culinary scene has exploded in recent years, and 2025 is shaping up to be a spectacular year for food lovers. Whether you’re into local produce, international dishes, foraged delights, or just want to eat your way across Britain, here are the top 15 UK food festivals you must attend in 2025—each one packed with personality, passion, and irresistible flavour.
1. Abergavenny Food Festival – Wales’ Culinary Capital
- Where: Abergavenny, Monmouthshire.
- Dates: 20–21 September 2025.
- Visit the official website
Tucked away in the foothills of the Brecon Beacons, Abergavenny transforms into a buzzing food mecca every autumn. It’s not just a food festival—it’s a community celebration with over 150 producers, chef demos, masterclasses, and late-night feasting events.
Expect Welsh lamb, farmhouse cheeses, cider from local orchards, and even wild foraging workshops. The whole town gets involved, so you’ll find everything from Michelin-starred chefs to small family-run stalls.
2. Taste of London – Regent’s Park Extravaganza
- Where: Regent’s Park, London.
- Dates: 18–22 June 2025 (Summer Edition).
- Explore Taste of London
This is where high-end dining meets outdoor summer fun. Taste of London brings together some of the capital’s top restaurants, chefs, and drink innovators for five days of indulgence. You’ll get to try taster-sized signature dishes from places like Dishoom, Hoppers, and BAO—all without booking a table months in advance.
There’s also a fire pit cooking area, live DJ sets, champagne masterclasses, and hundreds of artisan stalls selling everything from hot sauces to handmade chocolates.
3. The Big Feastival – Music, Food & Family Fun in the Cotswolds
- Where: Alex James’ Farm, Kingham, Oxfordshire.
- Dates: 22–24 August 2025.
- Check out The Big Feastival
Hosted by Blur’s Alex James on his very own farm, The Big Feastival is the ultimate family-friendly foodie weekend. Think street food trucks, celebrity chefs (Jamie Oliver is a regular), cookery classes, pop-up restaurants, and live music from major UK bands—all set in the dreamy Cotswolds countryside.
There are plenty of activities for kids too, including farmyard animals, circus acts, and food-focused crafts. It’s a food festival meets Glastonbury—but without the mud.
4. Ludlow Food Festival – Britain’s Original Foodie Gathering
- Where: Ludlow Castle, Shropshire.
- Dates: 12–14 September 2025.
- Discover Ludlow Food Festival
Ludlow is often credited with sparking the modern UK food festival movement back in 1995, and its charm hasn’t faded. Set within the walls of a medieval castle, this festival champions slow food, local produce, and traditional techniques.
Expect hands-on cookery sessions, meet-the-maker talks, ale trails, and bread-making competitions. It’s one of the most authentic and down-to-earth festivals you’ll find—and the setting is utterly magical.
5. Edinburgh Food Festival – Scottish Flavours in the Heart of the Fringe
- Where: George Square Gardens, Edinburgh.
- Dates: 26 July–4 August 2025.
Taking place during the world-famous Edinburgh Fringe, this free-to-enter festival showcases the best of Scottish produce—think haggis bon bons, Arbroath smokies, gin from the Highlands, and craft beer from local breweries.
What makes it special is the vibe: creative, eclectic, and bursting with the spirit of Edinburgh. It’s ideal for trying unique dishes while taking a break from comedy shows and street theatre.
6. Yorkshire Dales Food & Drink Festival – Farm-to-Festival Feasting
- Where: Funkirk Farm, Skipton, North Yorkshire.
- Dates: 19–20 July 2025.
Set against the scenic Yorkshire Dales, this festival brings together rustic charm and culinary innovation. It’s perfect for those who want to explore the true taste of Yorkshire—from Wensleydale cheeses and local pies to Yorkshire gins and award-winning sausages.
Celebrity chefs like Gino D’Acampo and James Martin headline the cooking stages, while family zones, workshops, and camping options make this a weekend getaway with heart.
7. Brighton Foodies Festival – Seaside Street Food & Summer Vibes
- Where: Preston Park, Brighton.
- Dates: 2–4 May 2025.
- Visit Brighton Foodies Festival
As Britain’s quirky coastal capital, Brighton knows how to throw a party—and the Foodies Festival is proof. Expect everything from gourmet burgers and bao buns to churros, prosecco bars, and vegan treats.
Live music, artisan stalls, chilli-eating competitions, and even a vintage tea tent keep the vibes fun and light-hearted. It’s also pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your pup.
8. Seafood & Wine Festival, Hastings – Coastal Culinary Bliss
- Where: Hastings Old Town, East Sussex.
- Dates: 13–14 September 2025.
- Learn more about the Hastings Seafood & Wine Festival
If you love seafood, Hastings’ annual Seafood & Wine Festival is unmissable. Located on the historic Stade by the sea, you’ll find freshly shucked oysters, grilled scallops, and fish chowders paired perfectly with local English wines.
The setting is intimate and atmospheric, featuring live jazz, cooking demos, and plenty of local charm. It’s a celebration of the coast, sustainability, and fine flavours.
9. Pub in the Park – Tom Kerridge’s Touring Food & Music Festival
- Where: Multiple locations including Marlow, Bath, and Chiswick.
- Dates: May to September 2025.
- Check tour dates on Pub in the Park
This one’s a bit different—it’s a roaming festival curated by Michelin-starred chef Tom Kerridge, combining gourmet pub grub, craft drinks, and live music in various locations across the UK.
Each stop features top-tier restaurants serving pop-up dishes, along with performances by big-name bands (like Kaiser Chiefs and Clean Bandit in past years). Think gastropub meets music fest. It’s laid-back, luxurious, and seriously tasty.
10. Isle of Wight Garlic Festival – Britain’s Boldest Flavour Celebration
- Where: Fighting Cocks Crossroads, Newchurch, Isle of Wight.
- Dates: 16–17 August 2025.
- Sink your teeth into the Garlic Festival
Garlic lovers rejoice—this quirky, fun-filled event is all about the mighty bulb. The Isle of Wight Garlic Festival celebrates everything garlicky: from garlic fudge and ice cream to artisan sauces, chutneys, and locally brewed garlic beer.
It’s not just about food—there’s live entertainment, dog shows, vintage rides, and a warm village atmosphere that makes it ideal for families or curious foodies looking for something different.
11. Bristol Foodies Festival – Southwest Street Food & Live Music
- Where: The Downs, Bristol.
- Dates: 9–11 May 2025.
Set in the green heart of Bristol, this edition of the popular Foodies Festival is one of the liveliest in the series. It’s a three-day feast featuring everything from award-winning local cheeses to bold street food, vegan options, and BBQ galore.
Expect top chefs like Great British Bake Off winners, live cooking theatres, and a full music lineup with chart-topping artists. It’s a festival that celebrates both flavour and fun in equal measure.
12. St Ives Food and Drink Festival – Beachside Bites in Cornwall
- Where: Porthminster Beach, St Ives, Cornwall.
- Dates: 16–18 May 2025.
- Visit St Ives Food Festival
There’s something magical about eating world-class food with your toes in the sand. Held right on the beach, the St Ives Food and Drink Festival combines Cornish seafood, local ales, and regional delicacies with stunning coastal views.
It’s free to attend during the day, with special ticketed evening events featuring fire-pit cooking and live music under the stars. From pasties to fine dining, this one captures the true spirit of Cornwall.
13. Loch Lomond Food and Drink Festival – A Taste of the Highlands
- Where: Loch Lomond Shores, Balloch, Scotland.
- Dates: 7–8 September 2025 (TBC).
- Explore Loch Lomond Shores Events
With a breathtaking backdrop of lochs and mountains, this Scottish festival is an immersive journey into Highland cuisine. Think fresh salmon, Aberdeen Angus beef burgers, artisan shortbread, Scottish whisky tastings, and craft gins.
It’s family-friendly, with cookery demos, live folk music, and a strong focus on supporting local producers. If you want a food experience that feels distinctly Scottish, this one’s for you.
14. Alresford Watercress Festival – A Green, Fresh & Quirky Day Out
- Where: Alresford, Hampshire.
Dates: 18 May 2025. - Learn more about the Watercress Festival
This charming, one-day street festival celebrates one of Britain’s most underrated ingredients: watercress. The entire town of Alresford turns into a celebration of local produce, with over 100 food and craft stalls.
Expect watercress soup, cheese, beer, sausages—and even watercress-eating competitions! There’s a parade, a “Watercress King & Queen,” live music, and a warm village vibe that keeps locals and tourists coming back year after year.
15. Great British Food Festival – Touring Castles & Country Houses
- Where: Multiple historic venues (e.g., Harewood House, Arley Hall).
- Dates: April–September 2025.
- View tour dates on Great British Food Festival
This travelling food festival brings delicious bites to some of the UK’s most stunning stately homes and castles. Each weekend event includes live chef demos, artisan markets, baking stages, kids’ cookery classes, and even man vs food challenges.
It’s more than a festival—it’s a day out in the countryside with food as the star. The scenic locations and laid-back atmosphere make it perfect for families and picnic lovers.
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning your 2025 calendar around great eats, these five UK food festivals should be at the top of your list. They combine regional charm, world-class flavours, and unforgettable atmosphere—all while supporting local producers and celebrating food as a cultural experience.
My advice? Go hungry, bring a tote bag for all the goodies you’ll buy, and don’t forget to book tickets early—many of these festivals sell out fast!
FAQs About UK Food Festivals 2025
1. When do most UK food festivals take place?
Most happen between May and September, with peak season in late summer and early autumn.
2. Are UK food festivals family-friendly?
Yes! Especially The Big Feastival and Ludlow, which have great activities for kids.
3. Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
For popular events like Taste of London or Abergavenny, it’s wise to book ahead online.
4. Are vegan and gluten-free options available?
Absolutely. Most UK food festivals now cater to a range of dietary needs.
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I am Sabiq Rasel is an Entrepreneur and broadcaster. I believe that every sip of coffee holds the potential for a moment of inspiration, creativity, and every cup tells a story.
