Shepton Mallet and the surrounding area are set for a gastronomic treat as the Royal Bath & West Society unveils the line-up for the first-ever Bath & West Food & Drink Festival, taking place over the weekend of 23-24 March.

Announced on 18th January 2024, this inaugural event will coincide with the 28th edition of the prestigious British Cheese Awards, offering an extensive array of demonstrations, presentations, and entertainment suitable for all ages.

The festival will kick off with TV presenter and Great British Bake Off favourite, Briony May Williams, leading the proceedings on the Farmhouse Kitchen Stage.

Briony May Williams (Credit: B&W Showground)

Following her, attendees can look forward to insights from food and drink luminaries such as the Fuss Free Foodie, broadcaster Nigel Barden, and food writer Andy Clarke. A highlight for many will undoubtedly be the cheese and cider pairing session presented by local legends Thatchers and Wyke Farms, showcasing some of the region's most celebrated produce.

Adding a twist to the culinary showcase, the Liver Cottage Mobile Kitchen will weave through the crowd, offering a unique cookery demonstration. Comedy chefs Hugh Fearn and Lee Whittingstall will blend homegrown ingredients with foraged finds to create "fusion food on the move", promising both laughter and learning.

At the heart of the festival will be the British Cheese Awards judging arena, a must-see for cheese aficionados. Here, visitors will witness the meticulous judging process, sample award-winning cheeses, and meet over 60 distinguished experts in the cheese industry, including comedian and British Cheese Champion Marcus Brigstocke and author cheesemonger Ned Palmer.

The judging panel will feature comedian and British Cheese Champion Marcus Brigstocke, Ned Palmer, Emma Young and Mary Quicke MBE, all led by head judge Tim Rowcliffe.

Surrounding the judging arena, the festival will feature stands from the region's top producers, offering everything from Bath Soft Cheese and E18hteen Gin to Purbeck Ice Cream and Good Game Charcuterie. This gathering of the South West's finest is a testament to the area's rich culinary heritage and vibrant food scene.

For families, the Little Foodies zone promises a day filled with creative crafts and activities, ensuring the festival offers something for everyone. Meanwhile, the Farmhouse Tavern will cater to all tastes, with a selection of ciders, beers, spirits, and low or no-alcohol alternatives.

This festival not only celebrates the South West's agricultural roots and culinary innovation but also brings together the community for a weekend of food, fun, and festivity.

Don't miss this opportunity to explore the best of what the region has to offer in food and drink - get your tickets here.