Food is undoubtedly one of the greatest pleasures in life. The satisfaction from indulging in a glass of crisp, cold white wine on a sunny afternoon. Discovering a tasty organic cheese from a local farmer, who takes the greatest pride in their produce. Learning a new technique from a Michelin-starred chef to perfect a signature dish. All these experiences can be found at Blenheim Palace Food Festival where culinary experts and food lovers gather for a delicious gastronomic treat. When it comes to a delightful way to spend a summer weekend, exploring the majestic surroundings of Blenheim Palace whilst dining al fresco at the venue’s food festival takes some beating.

Returning to Oxfordshire this summer, the food festival celebrates the very best food and drink from a wide selection of local producers across the UK. Held in the historic park of world-famous Blenheim Palace, the popular event is one of the largest in the UK and boasts an exciting line-up of celebrity chefs, guest speakers, and foodie experts. Ideal for friends, families, and food lovers, entertainment is provided through masterclasses, Q&As, and cooking workshops throughout the celebratory weekend. The highlight for most will be the opportunity to sample culinary delights from a wide range of food categories and cuisines offered by stallholders. If you’ve ever wondered where to source inspiration for new recipes, improve your culinary skills, and enjoy sprawling estate grounds in the countryside, this is the gastronomic event you’ve been waiting for.

Blenheim Palace, the host venue since the festival was founded, is widely regarded as one of the finest examples of English Baroque architecture, and the most prestigious landmarks in the country. Awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 1987, the current home of the 12th Duke and Duchess of Marlborough was completed in 1722 and signified a new style of architecture at the time. The ancestral home of Sir Winston Churchill is as famous for its 2,000 acres of parklands and Formal Gardens as for its fascinating history. The picturesque park that surrounds the palace was designed by the famous garden landscape architect Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown, and today remains a working estate.

Within the expansive parklands, there are several walks to enjoy exploring the grounds, whilst offering spectacular views of the palace buildings – and dogs are welcome. Throughout the year, Blenheim Palace offers a whole range of seasonal events, activities, and glamorous exhibitions including the UK’s most renowned Salon Privé Concours d’Elégance featuring classic cars and the latest supercars. Today, Blenheim remains a highly popular destination for visitors from around the world.

Upon arrival at the summer food festival, attendees will be greeted by live music from resident brass band Acoustic Jass and can explore a whole array of immersive entertainment to choose from. Michelin-starred chefs and MasterChef Champions can be found at The Festival Kitchen, where throughout the festival leading culinary stars will be delighting audiences. Last year’s chef lineup included legendary Michelin Starred Chef Raymond Blanc OBE, the popular Great British Bake-Off contestant Karen Wright, and Jean-Christophe Novelli, a 5 out of 5 AA Rosette winner, published author, and TV personality. Thanks to his service to gastronomy, headline chef Raymond Blanc has been awarded an OBE in the UK and is widely regarded as one of the finest chefs in the world. Live demos offer a fascinating opportunity to see the top chefs in action, as they reveal tips, insights, and ideas about everything from seasonal produce to inspired takes on classic dishes. Other activities include the chance to interact with the experts and ask culinary questions at the Q&As, or have fun with fellow foodies creating dishes at the popular Masterclasses.

When it comes to the food selection to choose from at Blenheim Palace Food Festival, there is a wide variety of over 150 stallholders from Oxfordshire and across the UK. They will be tempting food lovers with a high-quality selection of choices, from organic fruit and vegetables to flavoursome street food options and artisan desserts. Wine, cocktails, craft beers, and other non-alcoholic drinks will also be available to wash down food from local bars, distillers, and wine producers. The Tasting Tent will be returning this year, as it has proved highly popular at the annual occasion, offering guests the chance to sample an extensive collection of brand-new food and drink products.

Experiences and masterclasses at the event include wine and beer tasting experiences, as another way to enjoy discovering new favourites and meeting local producers. This year, Laithwaites will be partnering with Blenheim Palace Food Festival to run a Wine Sessions tent, with highly experienced wine experts Grant Hedley and Greg Robert leading the masterclasses. Sessions include ‘Champagne versus Sparkling Wine’, a ‘Wine Tasting Workshop’ and a ‘Cheese and Wine Session’ for wine enthusiasts. Each course is designed to educate and inspire by offering tips about how to interpret tastes and smells whilst discovering the provenance of each bottle. In addition, guests looking for a refined experience can head to the London Essence Company Bar in the VIP Garden. Here they can find a relaxing space to unwind whilst overlooking Blenheim Palace and enjoying the luxury distiller’s refreshing selection of drinks.

Whatever your taste, Blenheim Palace Food Festival caters to everyone from adventurous foodies to families and friends who come to visit. With such a wide range of delectable cuisines, tempting food experiences, and fun activities on offer, this is an experience not to be missed. A celebration of gastronomic excellence hosted in one of the most spectacular historic landmarks in the UK, this is a classic British summer day out.