As warmer days arrive, the UK bursts into a celebration of culinary delights. The food festival season is truly upon us, offering a fantastic array of tastes and experiences. From the capital to scenic northern parks, here are some essential food festivals to mark on your calendar for an early summer treat.
From the capital to scenic northern parks, here are some essential food festivals to mark on your calendar for an early summer treat.
Southport Food and Drink Festival
Victoria Park, Southport (Friday 30th May – Sunday 1st June 2025)
A much loved favourite in the North West, this free-to-enter festival transforms Victoria Park into a food lover’s paradise. Over three days, it expects to host around 150 traders, drawing significant crowds.
Prepare for a culinary tour around the globe, featuring everything from Dutch pancakes and Pad Thai to hearty Philly cheesesteaks and traditional giant Yorkshire puddings. Sweeter options abound with bubble waffles and churros sundaes.
A new addition for 2025 is the Experience Marquee, which will host intimate, ticketed workshops. These include cheese and wine pairings, beer and whisky tasting sessions, and even cake decorating masterclasses, offering a chance to learn from the experts.
If you’re planning to attend this excellent festival in Southport, consider the convenience of Drivalia car hire in Liverpool, which provides easy access to this North West celebration and allows you to explore the region at your own pace.
Taste of London
Regent’s Park, London (Wednesday 18th June – Sunday 22nd June 2025)
Taste of London stands as an iconic event in the capital’s food calendar. Set within the beautiful surroundings of Regent’s Park, this festival is an essential visit for any food enthusiast.
It gathers London’s most exciting restaurants, acclaimed chefs, and innovative bartenders for five days of gourmet indulgence. Visitors can sample signature dishes from top eateries, watch live cooking demonstrations by culinary stars, and enjoy expertly mixed cocktails under the summer sun.
This celebration showcases London’s incredible and varied food scene in one spectacular location.
Pub in the Park, London
Gunnersbury Park, London (Friday 30th May – Sunday 1st June 2025)
Curated by the celebrated chef Tom Kerridge, Pub in the Park tours several locations, but its London stop at Gunnersbury Park offers a perfect start to the summer festivities. This event masterfully combines high quality pub food with live music, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
Attendees can enjoy dishes from award winning pubs and restaurants, sample a selection of craft beers, and enjoy performances from well known musical artists. It’s a unique blend of gastropub excellence and festival fun.
Harrogate Food and Drink Festival
The Stray, Harrogate (Saturday 28th June – Sunday 29th June 2025)
Set in the lovely spa town of Harrogate, this festival takes over The Stray for a weekend dedicated to food, drink, and entertainment. It features a fantastic line up of street food vendors offering international cuisines, alongside an artisan market showcasing local and regional producers.
Expect live chef demonstrations, a selection of independent bars serving everything from craft ale to cocktails, and live music throughout the day. It’s a family friendly event with plenty to see and do in a beautiful park setting.
A Feast for the Senses Awaits
This summer offers a wonderful opportunity to explore the rich tapestry of the UK’s food scene. From the refined tastes of London’s top restaurants to the hearty fare of a gastropub, or the varied street food found at regional gatherings, there’s an event to satisfy every palate.
So, gather your friends and family, bring your appetite, and immerse yourself in the flavourful experiences and lively atmospheres of the UK’s food festivals.