Buckfast Abbey to host inaugural Food Festival this summer

Food lovers are in for a treat this summer as Buckfast Abbey prepares to host its first-ever Food Festival on Thursday 13th and Friday 14th June 2025. Set in the breathtaking grounds of the historic Benedictine monastery, the two-day event promises a flavour-filled celebration of local produce, culinary talent, and family fun.

The Buckfast Abbey Food Festival will showcase a rich array of artisan food and drink from across Devon and the wider South West, offering visitors the chance to sample regional delicacies, meet passionate producers, and purchase hand-crafted treats to take home. From gourmet cheeses and baked goods to small-batch spirits and preserves, there will be something to suit every palate.

A highlight of the festival will be live cooking demonstrations, headlined by none other than Peter Gorton, MasterChef winner and Michelin-starred chef. Gorton will be joined by a line-up of local culinary talent, offering expert tips, mouth-watering recipes, and a celebration of the South West’s thriving food scene.

The event adds a new dimension to Buckfast Abbey’s already popular seasonal programme, which includes the Summer Fair (7th–9th August) and Christmas Market (late November). The festival is expected to draw thousands of visitors, with activities for all ages, including a Kids’ Zone, interactive food experiences, and even pedal-powered smoothie making for those looking to mix food and fun.

Entry to the Food Festival is free, and the site will be open from 10am to 6pm each day. On-site parking is £6 per vehicle and can be pre-booked via the Abbey’s website to guarantee a spot.

Located on the edge of Dartmoor, Buckfast Abbey has welcomed visitors for over a century, renowned for its peaceful setting, stunning architecture, and its growing reputation as a community hub for arts, culture - and now, food.

For more information and to pre-book parking, visit: www.buckfast.org.uk/events/food-festival