Just a 20 minute drive from Cookswood Holiday Estate, Wells Food Festival is a vibrant celebration of around 200 of the finest local produce, culinary talent, and gastronomic traditions in the UK. Held annually in the charming city of Wells, Somerset, this festival draws thousands of food lovers, families, and tourists to experience the best the region has to offer. With its picturesque backdrop of medieval architecture, including the stunning Wells Cathedral, this food festival has become a highly anticipated event in the culinary calendar.
In this blog post, we will take a deep dive into the various elements that make Wells Food Festival a must-visit event for food enthusiasts. We’ll explore the history, key highlights, vendors, food offerings, and tips for making the most out of your visit.
The History of Wells Food Festival
Wells Food Festival was first established in 2013 with the goal of showcasing the exceptional local produce of Somerset. Over the years, it has grown exponentially in size and reputation, becoming one of the top food festivals in the South West. The festival promotes sustainable farming, supports small local businesses, and brings the community together through food.
A Showcase of Somerset's Finest Local Produce
One of the main draws of the Wells Food Festival is the focus on local, high-quality produce. Somerset is famous for its cheese, cider, and meats, and the festival provides an excellent opportunity to sample these items directly from the producers. Stallholders include farmers, cheesemakers, bakers, brewers, and artisan food producers who offer visitors a true taste of Somerset.
Culinary Demonstrations and Workshops
The Wells Food Festival features live cooking demonstrations and interactive workshops led by top chefs and culinary experts. These sessions are designed to educate, inspire, and showcase the diversity of Somerset’s food scene. Participants can learn new cooking techniques, discover local ingredients, and pick up tips on sustainability and healthy eating.
The street food area at the Wells Food Festival is one of the liveliest sections, offering a wide variety of gourmet dishes. From wood-fired pizzas to authentic Thai cuisine, there’s something for everyone. Many of the food trucks focus on using local and organic ingredients, ensuring that the food is not only delicious but also eco-friendly.
One of the festival’s highlights is the Artisan Market, where local producers and makers display their handcrafted goods. Here, you can find everything from artisanal cheeses and freshly baked bread to jams, preserves, and chocolates. The market is perfect for picking up unique souvenirs or ingredients to take home.
Family-Friendly Fun: Activities for All Ages
The Wells Food Festival isn’t just for adults – it’s a family-friendly event with activities for all ages. Children can participate in food-themed games, face painting, and hands-on cooking classes designed especially for them. There are also plenty of picnic areas where families can relax and enjoy their food purchases.
Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Practices
Sustainability is at the heart of the Wells Food Festival. The festival organisers are committed to reducing waste, encouraging recycling, and promoting eco-friendly practices among vendors and attendees. Many of the food stalls use compostable packaging, and visitors are encouraged to bring reusable containers and cutlery.
The Drinks Scene: Craft Beers, Local Ciders, English Wines
No food festival is complete without a selection of drinks to accompany the delicious eats. At Wells Food Festival, visitors can sample locally brewed craft beers, traditional Somerset ciders, and organic wines. There are also non-alcoholic options, including freshly squeezed juices and locally roasted coffee.
Supporting Local Businesses and Farmers
One of the key missions of Wells Food Festival is to support small, independent businesses and local farmers. By attending the festival, visitors contribute directly to the local economy and help sustain traditional farming methods and artisan crafts. Many of the stallholders are family-run businesses that have been operating in Somerset for generations.
Planning Your Visit
Just 11 miles from Cookswood, Wells is easily accessible by car, bus, and train. The city has several parking areas available for festival attendees, and shuttle services are often provided during the event. For those traveling from nearby cities like Bristol or Bath, the journey to Wells offers scenic views of the Somerset countryside.
The festival typically takes place in early October, when the weather is mild, and the autumn harvest is in full swing. To make the most of your visit, it’s recommended to arrive early in the day. This will give you plenty of time to explore the stalls, attend a cooking demonstration, and enjoy lunch at the street food area.
Admission and Ticket Information
The Wells Food Festival is a free-to-enter event, which makes it accessible to everyone. However, certain workshops or special experiences may require advance booking and a ticket purchase. It’s worth checking the festival’s website for updates on the schedule and ticket availability.
If planning to attend, we hope you enjoy your day!
From Team Cookswood