The picturesque town of Clitheroe, situated in the stunning Ribble Valley, is set to host one of the UK’s most anticipated culinary events – the Clitheroe Food Festival. Returning on Saturday 10th August 2024, this free-to-enter extravaganza is expected to attract over 20,000 food lovers from across the country.
What makes Clitheroe Food Festival stand out?
Recognised as one of the best food festivals in the UK by Conde Nast Traveller and listed in the Top Ten UK Food Festivals by Eventbrite, the Clitheroe Food Festival has earned its reputation as a must-visit event for food enthusiasts. The festival, run in partnership with Ribble Valley Borough Council and generously sponsored by local businesses, has seen a remarkable increase in popularity over the last few years, with visitor numbers growing by several thousand.
What can visitors expect at the festival?
With over 80 local producers showcasing their wares, the festival offers an unparalleled opportunity to sample and purchase the finest food and drink from Ribble Valley, Lancashire, and beyond. From artisan cheeses to locally brewed craft beers, and from succulent hog roasts to delicate pastries, there’s something to tempt every palate.
Street food enthusiasts will be spoilt for choice with a diverse range of offerings. Whether you’re craving seafood, Indian cuisine, or traditional Lancashire fare, the festival’s food stalls have you covered. For those with a sweet tooth, an array of cakes and desserts await.Â
What’s new for Clitheroe Food Festival 2024?
The 2024 edition of the festival promises to be bigger and better than ever. It will serve as the grand finale to a week-long “Taste Fest” running from 3rd-9th August. This extended celebration will feature tasting experiences, themed walks, food demonstrations, brewery tours, and visits to farms and food venues throughout Ribble Valley.
Who are the key sponsors of the event?
The festival owes much of its success to the support of local businesses. Key sponsors for the 2024 event include:Â
- Fort Vale Engineering
- Holmes Mill
- The Compleat Food Group
These companies not only provide financial backing but also actively participate in the festival, offering unique experiences and tastings to attendees.
How does the festival support local businesses?
Focusing primarily on producers from Ribble Valley and Lancashire, Clitheroe Food Festival provides an invaluable opportunity for small-scale artisans and food entrepreneurs to showcase their products to a wider audience. This emphasis on local produce helps cement Ribble Valley’s growing reputation as the ‘food capital of the north’.
What activities are available for families?
The festival is designed to be a fun-filled day out for the whole family. Beyond the culinary delights, visitors can enjoy street entertainment and live music of various genres, creating a vibrant festival atmosphere against the backdrop of Clitheroe’s iconic castle.
Educational activities are also a key component of the festival. Organisers have crafted fun, informative experiences designed to educate both children and adults about the journey of food from farm to fork. These activities highlight the importance of local produce and the steps involved in creating the fine foods on offer.
How can visitors get to the festival?
Given the festival’s popularity, organisers have implemented a park and ride scheme to ease congestion in the town centre. Visitors are encouraged to use the alternative park and ride schemes operating from Hanson’s Cement on West Bradford Road and Edisford Road public car park.
Holgates Artisan Fair: A Perfect Complement to Clitheroe Food Festival
Food enthusiasts and craft lovers alike will be delighted to know that Holgates is hosting its own Artisan Fair on the same day. Taking place on Saturday 10th August from 10:30am to 3pm, this fair offers visitors an additional opportunity to explore and purchase a wide array of locally crafted goods.
The Holgates Artisan Fair will feature a diverse selection of stalls, showcasing the talents of local artisans and producers. Visitors can expect to find:
- Handcrafted jewellery
- Unique artworks and crafts
- Locally produced cheeses and chutneys
- Candles and wax melts
- Beautiful dried flower arrangements
- Cosy knitted items
- Sweets and cupcakes
- Handmade teddies
- Stylish homeware items
The timing of the Artisan Fair allows visitors to incorporate it into their Clitheroe Food Festival experience, providing the perfect opportunity to pick up one-of-a-kind souvenirs, gifts, or treats for yourself.
Where can visitors stay during the Clitheroe Food Festival?
For those looking to make a weekend of the Food Festival, Holgates offers an excellent accommodation option nearby. Our Ribble Valley park is situated just a short drive from Clitheroe, making it an ideal location for those attending the food festival.Â
Our park offers a range of accommodation options to suit all preferences and budgets, including luxury holiday lodges, static caravans, and pitches for touring caravans and motorhomes.
By choosing to stay at Holgates, visitors can turn their Clitheroe Food Festival experience into a memorable mini-break, combining the excitement of the event with the peace and beauty of the Lancashire countryside. Book today.Â
