Taking a bite out of nature – festival shows off the best of our countryside

The best of what the Chilterns has to offer will be showcased in a food festival at the Ashridge Estate next Sunday, September 14.
Chilterns Food Festival in the Ashridge EstateChilterns Food Festival in the Ashridge Estate
Chilterns Food Festival in the Ashridge Estate

Stalls offering all manner of local produce will stand alongside fascinating craft displays, forestry demonstrations and children’s activities during the Chilterns Countryside and Food Festival, open from 10am to 4pm in the picturesque grounds near Berkhamsted.

This is the eighth year of the Festival, whichis run by the Chilterns Conservation Board and aims to illustrate how different agencies and businesses work together to help to promote and preserve our countryside.

The Board’s Cathy Rose said: “The Chilterns counties of Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Bedfordshire are home to a huge variety of food producers, artists, craftspeople and environmental organisations and this event is dedicated to them. “

Around 95% of the exhibitors at the Festival come from within 25 miles of the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, so visitors really will be buyinglocal.”

More than 40 food stands will be selling local produce ranging from cheeses, cakes and

chutneys to pies, pastries and poultry. You can tuck in at the barbecue offeringlocally-produced sausages and burgers, a hog roast, pizza, crepes and

Caribbean cuisine, including a range of vegetarian options.

Another highlight of the event is the music stage, featuring more homegrown talent in the form of artists including Julian Mann, Palmerston, The Lamas, Laurel Canyon, Kersten Luts and Crainer’s Hill, who are sure to keep feet tapping throughout the day.

The National Trust’s foresters will be on hand to answer questions, and visitors can even meet a real red kite.

Entry costs £4 for adults and £1 for children. Call 01442 851227 or 01844 355 506.for more details.