Top 5: Food festivals to book this year

The Great Dorset Chilli Festival 30-31 July

Hailed as the hottest day out in Dorset, The Great Dorset Chilli Festival is perfect for those who can handle spicier flavours. Stalls are loaded with anything and everything for chilli enthusiasts – from plants to sauces.  With cookery demonstrations, talks with chilli-growing tips and a range of local street food, you can cool down afterwards with a beer and an ice cream.

The Great British Beer Festival 9-13 August

The Campaign for Real Ale’s ultimate beer festival is back. With craft beer continuing to rise in the ranks of beer lovers across the nation, this is a great opportunity to savour a range of the finest beers and ciders whether you’re a seasoned fan of the drink or yet to try it.

The Isle of Wight Garlic Festival 20-21 August

It turns out that garlic is so popular in the Isle of Wight that it warrants its own festival. As the island is a producer of garlic, you’ll savour the tasty produce fresh from its local surroundings but with a whole range of other local fare, arts and crafts and events, there’s plenty to entertain.

The Big Feastival 26-28 August

The Big Feastival founded by Jamie Oliver and Alex James sees food and music merged into a brilliant weekend, filled with pop-up restaurants, chef demonstrations and plenty of tasty treats. Taking place over August Bank Holiday weekend, you’re even likely to catch some sunshine. Tickets are available now!

Abergavenny Food Festival 17-18 September

Although tickets aren’t yet available (but will be soon), we couldn’t resist adding this brilliant food festival to our list. Based in Wales, the award-winning festival hosts top cooks and chefs every year, drawing over 30,000 visitors to the beautiful town. With the finest food and drink producers added in, you’re set to have a deliciously fun weekend.