Winchester is a haven for foodies, especially this summer with two tasty treats for visitors and locals to sink their teeth into.
Hampshire Fare, the county’s food, drink and craft group, is organising the second Winchester Food Festival. This culinary extravaganza will take place on Sunday 14 July in the picturesque Outer Close of Winchester Cathedral.
New this year, the festival will be preceded by ‘A Taste of Winchester’ – a delicious line up of foodie events across the district from the Monday 8 until Saturday 13 July.
’A Taste of Winchester’ will showcase the best of Winchester’s culinary talents, offering a diverse array of food and drink experiences that cater to all tastes. Here’s a closer look at just some of the events taking place across the week…
For an entire week, participating restaurants across the Winchester district are offering special menus, allowing diners to sample a variety of dishes. This event is a fantastic opportunity to explore new eateries or revisit old favourites, all while enjoying exclusive dishes crafted for the occasion. From gourmet meals to casual bites, there’s something for everyone.
Highlights:
Early Evening Express Dinner at Lucky Lychee at The Green Man
Eat for just £17 with a special menu featuring Lucky Lychee’s all-time bestseller, chicken karaage bao, paired with a glass of Louis Pommery England sparkling wine from Alresford.
Curry Tasting at Camile Thai
Try a free sample size Camile Thai’s top three dishes Green curry, Crispy Chilli – chicken or tofu and vegetable spring rolls (4oz portion). Plus, visitors will receive a special 15% voucher to be used in store throughout the week for evening meals.
The Ivy Winchester: A Taste of Winchester menu
A special edition £19.17 two course set menu – showcasing the seasonal flavours of summer.
Set menu at Giggling Squid
Enjoy a delicious two or three course set menu from 8 – 12 July. Two courses are £23.95 or treat yourself to three courses for £29.95.
Join head gardener Stefanie to find out all there is to know about the incredible fresh produce Lainston House use in their kitchens and cookery school. Stefanie ensures the chefs are using the very best and freshest of fruit, vegetables, and herbs from plot to plate.
Winchester is not just a food lover’s paradise; it’s also home to some of the finest wineries and breweries in the region. These tasting events offer connoisseurs and casual sippers alike the chance to sample a variety of locally produced beverages.
Highlights:
Ale and Ammo at The Royal Logistic Corps Museum
Join Museum Director Simon Walmsley for an entertaining talk on the weapons held in the Museum’s collection, whilst enjoying locally brewed Winchester Ale from Alfred’s Brewery.
Cheese & Wine Tasting with the Book and Bucket Cheese Company at The Cabinet Rooms
A guided tasting of a selection cheeses paired with delicious wines.
Hotel du Vin, Dine & Wine
Dine at Hotel du Vin Winchester between the 8 – 14 July as part of the Taste of Winchester celebrations and receive a complimentary glass of wine.
For those who love to cook (or just want to learn), these events provide an interactive and educational experience. Local chefs and culinary experts lead sessions on various topics, from mastering the art of sourdough making to crafting the chocolates. These hands-on workshops are perfect for home cooks looking to hone their skills or pick up new ones.
Highlights:
Simply Sourdough baking course
Learn about sourdough and bake two loaves to take away with you.
Chocolate Craft open evening
Visit the Chocolate Craft factory and watch master chocolatiers at work with plenty of opportunity for chocolate tastings and can even try your hand at piping your own design on a chocolate lolly.
Urban foraging workshop
Discover the basics of foraging where even in the city, you’ll be amazed at the number of nettles and wild strawberries, edible seeds, leaves, flowers, fungi, roots, shoots that there are to be found!
Afternoon tea, a traditional British custom, typically features a selection of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and various pastries, all accompanied by a pot of tea. Originating in the early 19th century, it was initially a private social event for the upper class but has since become a beloved ritual enjoyed by many.
Highlights:
2-4-1 Afternoon Tea at Winchester Royal Hotel
Choose from traditional afternoon tea for 2 guests for £21.95 or Gents afternoon tea for 2 guests £32.
Afternoon Tea for two at Cobbs Farm Shop
Enjoy a free glass of English Sparkling Wine with any Afternoon Tea booked during the week of Taste of Winchester.
Visit West Lea Farm Shop near Alresford for an array of local food and drink tastings each day.
Enjoy breakfast with a view at Holden Farm from 9 – 11 July.
Indulge in a Tapas evening featuring local Hampshire Produce with Spanish Heritage at The Myers Touch.
Get crafty with Pottery and Pizza at Bella Crafts on 12 July.
Head to Winchester Science Centre to explore the fiery nature of the foods we need to fuel and energise our bodies as part of their brand-new live science show What Happens: Our Body and Exercise.
Enjoy Deli Lates a small plates menu accompanied by wine and cocktails at Open House Deli on 12 July.
To view all of the events taking place during a Taste of Winchester visit winchesterfoodfestival.co.uk/a-taste-of-winchester.
Winchester Food Festival Capping off A Taste of Winchester is the Winchester Food Festival. Starting at 10am on Sunday 14 July at Outer Close, Winchester Cathedral, visitors throughout the day will be able to meet local producers watch chef demos and enjoy tastings.
This is more than just a food festival; it’s a celebration of Winchester district’s vibrant culinary scene and a testament to its commitment to local, sustainable, and delicious food. Whether you’re a foodie looking to explore new flavours, a wine enthusiast eager to sample local vintages, or a home cook wanting to learn from the best, this event has something for everyone. Mark your calendar and get ready to embark on a culinary journey through the heart of Winchester!
To view all of the producers attending and events taking place during the food festival visit winchesterfoodfestival.co.uk
This project is part-funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund
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