Returning for a weekend of fun and flavour, the South Downs Food Festival is back for two days of culinary inspiration.

Taking place in the stunning grounds of Stansted Park on Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 June, this years event promises a vibrant weekend of top-quality food, drink and entertainment with an exciting NEW line-up of chefs, producers and activities.

Championing the very best of food in season, from asparagus and strawberries, to ChalkStream trout and wild venison – this is YOUR chance to meet and sample some of Hampshire’s finest local food and drink from an incredible line-up of our very own Hampshire Fare members.

Looking for inspiration? Why not visit one of the incredible culinary stages including our very own Hampshire Fare Cookery Theatre where some of the county’s top chefs and passionate producers will be sharing inspirational recipes, tasty tips, and mouth-watering demos including Masterchef: The Professionals 2023 winner and head chef at Lainston House, The Avenue, Tom Hamblet – check out our full Cookery Theatre programme below!

Saturday 7 June

11:00 – 11:45 Martin DawkinsThe Rustic Chef

“Field to Fork: Big Flavours, Honest Cooking” Kick off the festival with hearty, rustic dishes that champion local ingredients and bold flavours.

12:00 – 12:20 Rachel Annette – Honey Bee Happy

“Bee Inspired: A Taste of Local Honey” Explore the magic of bees and sample the diversity of Hampshire honey.

12:30 – 1:15 Hettie Anderson – Eastleigh College

“The Next Big Thing: Recipe for Success” Hettie beat 3,000 contestants in an international cookery competition in Italy. Don’t miss this rising star in action.

1:20 – 2:00 – BREAK Time to explore the festival, grab a bite, and recharge.

2:00 – 2:20 Lola Rubio – Two & One Olive Oil

“Liquid Gold: The Art of Olive Oil” A flavour-led journey through exceptional olive oils, full of passion and provenance.

2:35 – 3:10 Lucy Parr – Lucy’s Friendly Foods

“Sweet & Simple: Delicious Bakes for Everyone” Feel-good cakes and bakes that cater to all diets — without compromising on taste.

3:20 – 3:40 Hayley Elston aka The Codmother – The Fabulous Catch Company

“From Aldi’s Next Big Thing to Festival Favourite” Award-winning crabcakes and a story of success – from seaside beginnings to national spotlight.

3:45 – 4:30 Giles Babb – The Bluebell Inn

“Pub Classics, Reinvented” Close day one with a masterclass in modern pub food – hearty, seasonal, and full of flair.

Sunday 8 June

11:00 – 11:45 Stephen Doyle – The Winchester Hotel & Spa

“Modern Elegance: Restaurant Flavours Made Simple” Refined, seasonal cooking made approachable — inspired by one of Winchester’s culinary stars.

12:00 – 12:45 Jane Mugridge, Yarty Cordials

“Heritage on a Plate: Cooking from the Heart” A soulful celebration of time-honoured recipes, traditional techniques, and meaningful food memories.

1:00 – 1:45 Tom Hamblin – Head Chef, Lainston House (MasterChef: The Professionals Winner 2023)

“From MasterChef to Masterclass” Signature techniques and standout local produce from one of Britain’s brightest culinary talents.

1:45 – 2:00 – BREAK Time to stretch your legs, grab a bite, and explore the festival.

2:00 – 2:20 Sarah Kennedy – Lusso Leaf

“Microgreens with Maximum Impact” Discover how tiny leaves are packing big flavour and transforming dishes in top kitchens.

2:30 – 3:15 Nadia Arab – The Road from Karachi

“Bold Flavours, Beautiful Plates” A vibrant celebration of culture, colour, and spice-filled cooking that tells a story with every bite.

3:30 – 3:50 Downton Distillery

“The Spirit of Craft: A Taste of Downton” An artisan journey through flavour, heritage, and the art of small-batch gin making.

Schedule subject to change.