South Downs Food Festival

About

The South Downs Food Festival returns to Stansted Park on the 6th and 7th of June 2026, bringing a spectacular weekend of food, drink, and celebration.

For 2026, we are thrilled to be working with our charity partners Chefs in Schools as we support their school food revolution, through tastier, more nutritious school dinners and food education. Across the weekend, we will be raising funds for Rowans Hospice, as we champion the region’s finest producers.

Held in the stunning grounds of Stansted Park Estate, the mansion provides a spectacular backdrop to the festival, which has quickly become a highlight of the UK's culinary calendar.

​Stroll through our vibrant marketplace, where farmers, foragers, fermenters, and artisan makers showcase the best seasonal fruits, vegetables, and handcrafted delights. Indulge in charcuterie and cheeses, kombucha and kefir, burgers and beer—all while celebrating the incredible ingredients of the South Downs.

Highlights of the 2025 South Downs Food Festival included an impressive street food lineup that brought the best of Hampshire and Sussex together with global influences — from Mexican tacos and Vietnamese banh mi to smoky brisket, hog roasts, Wagyu burgers, sushi, and handmade fishcakes - washed down with top-tier English sparkling wine courtesy of a local vineyard, craft ales and scrumptious ciders. A true feast for the senses and you can expect even more in 2026!

Each year, the festival explores a different theme – from the legacy of Elizabeth David to the future of food in schools. For 2026, we present a theme close to our hearts and palates: The Italian Influence on British Food Culture. Learn how Italian food has influenced farmers and producers since Roman times, from the introduction of asparagus to the spectacular vineyards that take in the sunshine on the southern slopes of the Downs.

Join cookery demonstrations, live fire BBQ and kids activities as we inspire the next generation to feast on fun, healthy and delicious food, and enjoy talks from producers, chefs and authors.

Beyond the food, we offer live music, craft cocktails, family friendly fun and high tea on the terrace.

Further details of the festival line-up and agenda will be released over the coming months.

Find out more here

We extend our heartfelt thanks to you for supporting our mission to celebrate and promote the South Downs food and drink landscape.