Foodie festival returns to East Devon

One of the county’s biggest celebrations of food and drink is back this autumn, as the Taste East Devon Festival returns for its fifth year from 13–21 September 2025.

The nine-day festival brings together vineyards, restaurants, chefs and producers from across the region in a packed programme of tastings, tours and unique experiences. Visitors can look forward to everything from wild foraging at River Cottage to cider pressing in Whimple’s orchards.

Highlights include vineyard tours at Pebblebed and Lily Farm, a luxurious wine and lunch experience at Lympstone Manor (17 Sept), and a traditional Devon cream tea with a twist at The Donkey Sanctuary (18 Sept). The PIG-at Combe will open its gardens for tours and host a lively Folly Music Night (19 Sept), while Coldharbour Field Kitchen promises wood-fired pizza, tapas and live music.

For something hands-on, High Grange’s Fire School (18 Sept) invites guests to cook over open flames in a woodland kitchen, and Darts Farm will showcase local wines with a special dinner. Drinks lovers can also enjoy an Otter Brewery tour (17 Sept), Bar Buoy cocktail tasting (18 Sept), and expert coffee sessions at The Coffee Factory (15–16 Sept).

The much-loved “Big Pick” at Courtney’s of Whimple (20–21 Sept) returns with apple picking, pressing, music and food among the orchards. Meanwhile, Lyme Bay Winery teams up with Quicke’s Cheese for indulgent wine and cheese pairings.

Festival co-founder Michael Dart said: “It’s a joy to celebrate the incredible small producers and family businesses we have here in East Devon.”

Supported by East Devon District Council and local sponsors, Taste East Devon continues to cement the region’s reputation as one of the UK’s top foodie destinations.

Full details and tickets: www.tasteeastdevon.co.uk