Top food festivals to visit this autumn
As autumn approaches, the arrival of the new season brings with it a host of fabulous food festivals and events to central England, each showcasing the best of British produce and delicious local dishes.
The Great British Food Festival - (Ragley Hall, Alcester, Warwickshire) 12th – 13th September
The Great British Food festival is the ultimate in foodie fun. Boasting over 80 local and artisan producers, the two day event set in the stunning grounds of Ragley Hall is sure to satisfy all tastes, while the live music and abundance of activities will keep the whole family entertained. For those wanting to pick up some culinary skills, top chef demos from Great British Bake Off and Masterchef contestants will offer some great kitchen tips, while the Man v. Food challenges taking place throughout are sure to satisfy even the hungriest holidaymakers!
Make a weekend of it...
Glebe Farm Barns - Duck Pond Cottage - Nr. Alcester, Stratford-upon-Avon
Property reference: W43700
Situated in the pretty village of Exhall, ten minutes’ drive from Ragley Hall, this beautifully converted barn is the perfect place to relax and unwind after a busy day exploring the festival. The village boasts a good selection of country pubs offering traditional food and real ales and for those wishing to explore further afield, the historic town of Stratford-upon-Avon is just a short drive away.
Price: £612 (£29.15 pppn*) for three nights’ self-catered accommodation arriving 11th September 2015. Sleeps seven in four bedrooms with room for two pets. Pets stay free**.
The Great Bath Feast - (Various locations in Bath, Somerset) 1st– 31st October
The Great Bath Feast is one of the highlights of the UK food calendar, running throughout October. During the month there are over 100 events planned, including workshops, book signings and cookery demonstrations. Hosted in Bath’s vast array of restaurants, cafes and hotels, celebrity chefs and industry experts will present the very best of British food to the many visitors who will descend upon the city.
Make a weekend of it...
Henley Farmhouse Studio - Henley, nr. Bath
Property reference: 17243
The beautiful 16th-century barn, with far reaching views over the countryside, has been converted to provide cosy holiday accommodation and is an ideal base for exploring the area. Just a short drive from the centre of Bath and its abundance of foody events, for those seeking something closer to home, Henley’s good selection of shops and pubs are just a short walk away.
Price: £239 (£29.88 pppn*) for four nights’ self-catered accommodation arriving 5th October 2015. Sleeps two in one bedroom.
Melton Mowbray Food Festival - (The Cattle Market, Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire) 3rd – 4th October
Hosted in the birthplace of the Great British pork pie, the Melton Mowbray Food Festival is one of the largest regional food festivals in the country, boasting over 150 exhibitors. A vast selection of edible delights is promised from some of the country’s finest producers, many of which are from the local area and wider East Midlands. Highlights will look to include artisan cheeses, gold-infused bubbly, steamed puddings, gourmet British game and locally-brewed ales.
Make a weekend of it...
Stay in: Crew Yard Cottage – Staunton, Nottinghamshire
Property reference: 25869
This spacious holiday property, designed and furnished with contemporary flair is set in beautiful grounds with far reaching countryside views. With access to an indoor heated swimming pool, it is located just two miles from shops, pubs and restaurants with the beautiful location of Melton Mowbray less than 20 miles away.
Price: £278 (£15.45 pppn*) for three nights’ self-catered accommodation arriving 2nd October 2015. Sleeps six in two bedrooms with room for two pets.
For more information, visit welcomecottages.com.