North Norfolk Food and Drink Festival 2026 – Wells-next-the-Sea, England
Overview
The North Norfolk Food and Drink Festival is a spectacular celebration of local gastronomy set within the magnificent walled garden of Holkham Hall. Now a staple of the Norfolk coastal calendar, this festival brings together the very best producers from the North Norfolk area, showcasing the rich agricultural and maritime bounty of the region. The event is deeply rooted in the community, providing a platform for artisan bakers, cheese makers, distillers, and farmers to share their passion and products with a diverse audience of food lovers.
In 2026, the festival continues its tradition of offering a sensory journey through the flavors of East Anglia. Set against the stunning backdrop of the 18th-century Palladian house and its sprawling estate, the festival features a vibrant mix of stallholders, live cookery demonstrations, and family-friendly entertainment. It is an event that celebrates the “field to fork” philosophy, highlighting the importance of sustainability and local sourcing while providing a festive atmosphere where visitors can relax and enjoy the finest food and drink the coast has to offer.
Event Highlights
- The Cookery Theater: Watch renowned local chefs and special guests demonstrate their culinary skills and share secret recipes using seasonal Norfolk ingredients.
- Artisan Producer Market: Browse over 60 stalls featuring everything from locally landed crab and Norfolk gin to handmade chocolates and award-winning preserves.
- Entertainment and Live Music: Enjoy a relaxed afternoon of live acoustic performances from local bands while sampling street food in the dedicated picnic areas.
- Kids’ Creative Food Zone: Engage younger visitors with hands-on food workshops and educational activities designed to inspire the next generation of foodies.
Why Attend
Food enthusiasts and supporters of local industry should attend this festival to discover unique products that are often unavailable in mainstream supermarkets. The intimate setting of the Holkham walled garden allows for meaningful conversations with the producers themselves, offering a deeper understanding of the craftsmanship behind the food. It is the perfect opportunity to stock up on high-quality pantry staples and luxury treats while supporting the small businesses that make the Norfolk food scene so distinctive.
Enjoy Your Event Stress-Free with Euro Travelo
Planning a trip to attend a festival, concert, or business event in Europe can be overwhelming—tickets, travel, accommodation, and local logistics all take time and effort. Euro Travelo makes it simple by providing everything you need through one trusted company. You save time, avoid stress, and enjoy a seamless experience from start to finish.
Families and travelers exploring the North Norfolk Coast will find the festival to be a highlight of their trip, combining world-class catering with a stunning historical location. The festival’s relaxed pace makes it ideal for a late summer outing, allowing visitors to combine a trip to the beach at Wells-next-the-Sea with a sophisticated culinary experience. Whether you are a serious home cook looking for inspiration or simply looking for a beautiful place to enjoy a gourmet lunch in the sunshine, the North Norfolk Food and Drink Festival is a must-visit.
Date & Duration
- Event Dates: Saturday 5th and Sunday 6th September 2026.
- Event Duration: Two full days of festivities, typically from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily.
Visiting this event? Don’t miss out on these amazing activities and local experiences while you’re here.
Venue / Location
- City and Country: Wells-next-the-Sea, England.
- Venue: The Walled Garden, Holkham Hall.
- Google Maps Address: Holkham Rd, Wells-next-the-Sea NR23 1AB, United Kingdom.
Ticket Information
- How Tickets Are Sold: Historically, entry to the festival is free, though car parking charges apply for the Holkham Estate.
- Admission Type: Free public admission to the festival grounds.
- Ticket Pricing: Entrance is $0, however, parking on the Holkham Estate is approximately $8 per car for the day.
- Free Admission Type: General admission to the producer market and cookery theater is free for all visitors.
- Special Seating or VIP Options: No specific VIP seating is typically offered, as the event promotes an open, communal festival atmosphere.
Booking with Euro Travelo
Looking to attend this event hassle-free? Euro Travelo can help you secure tickets, arrange travel, and manage your trip from start to finish. Whether it’s a business conference, trade show, or cultural festival, our team makes it easy for international visitors to join events across Europe. Contact Euro Travelo today to book your tickets and travel arrangements.
Contact Information
- Email: info@northnorfolkfoodfestival.co.uk
- Phone: +44 1328 713111
- Website: www.northnorfolkfoodfestival.co.uk
- Social Media:
- https://twitter.com/NNfoodfest
- https://www.facebook.com/NorthNorfolkFoodFestival/
- https://instagram.com/nn.fooddrinkfestival
Getting There
- Nearest Airports: Norwich Airport (NWI), 50 km away (~1 hour drive); London Stansted (STN) is the nearest major international hub (~2 hours drive).
- Public Transport: Take the “Coasthopper” bus service (CH1 or CH2) which stops at the Holkham park gates; the walk to the walled garden is approximately 15 minutes ($4-6).
- Taxi/Rideshare: Local taxis are available from Wells or Fakenham; a ride from Wells town center to the hall costs roughly $12-18.
- Parking: Ample parking is available on-site at Holkham Hall for approximately $8 per day; follow signage for the food festival parking area.
- Other Access: A popular way to arrive is by walking the pedestrian path from Wells-next-the-Sea (approx 2 miles) for a scenic coastal approach.
Accommodation Options
- Luxury Hotels: The Victoria at Holkham (4-star, located at the estate gates, $220-350/night); The Hoste in Burnham Market (Historic luxury, $200-330/night).
- Mid-Range Options: Globe Inn Wells (Traditional boutique inn, $140-220/night); The Crown Hotel Wells (4-star, central location, $130-190/night).
- Budget Stays: Pinewoods Holiday Park (Luxury lodges and camping, $60-150/night); Various local B&Bs in Wells-next-the-Sea ($80-130/night).
Attendee Experiences
- The cookery theater was brilliant—I learned a new way to prepare local mussels that I use all the time now.
- Walking around the walled garden with a glass of Norfolk cider was the perfect way to spend a Saturday afternoon.
- The variety of cheeses and breads was incredible; I ended up going home with three bags full of local treats.
Before you go, check these helpful travel products:
Maps
Contact
FAQ's
Is the festival accessible for visitors with mobility issues?
The festival is held within the walled garden of Holkham Hall, which consists of mostly flat grass and gravel paths. While the terrain is generally accessible, it can become uneven in certain areas or muddy if it has rained recently. Accessible parking is available close to the garden entrance, and disabled toilets are provided on-site to ensure all visitors can enjoy the event comfortably.
Can I bring my dog to the North Norfolk Food and Drink Festival?
Dogs are welcome on the Holkham Estate and within the festival area, provided they are kept on a lead at all times. However, owners should be aware that the festival can become very crowded and noisy, which may not be suitable for all pets. Owners are also responsible for cleaning up after their dogs and ensuring they do not disturb the food stalls or other attendees.
Are there plenty of options for vegetarians and vegans at the food stalls?
Yes, the festival prides itself on diversity, and many of the street food vendors and artisan producers offer high-quality vegetarian and vegan options. From plant-based burgers to vegan-friendly pastries and dairy-free chocolates, there is a wide selection to choose from. Producers are generally very knowledgeable about their ingredients and are happy to discuss dietary requirements with customers.
Is there an ATM on-site, or do I need to bring plenty of cash?
While many of the larger stalls and food vendors now accept contactless card payments, some smaller producers may still prefer cash. There is no permanent ATM located inside the walled garden, although there is one at the Holkham ticket office. It is highly recommended to bring a sufficient amount of cash with you to avoid long walks or disappointment at stalls that are cash-only.
What happens if it rains during the festival weekend?
The North Norfolk Food and Drink Festival is an outdoor event and will go ahead in most weather conditions. The cookery theater is under cover, and many producers have gazebos, but visitors are advised to dress appropriately for the English weather, including sturdy footwear and waterproof clothing. In the event of extreme weather warnings, updates will be posted on the official website and social media.
