Michelin stars and local icons: Harrogate Food and Drink Festival unveils 2026 Cookery Theatre lineup
The seventh annual Harrogate Food and Drink Festival returns to Ripley Castle this month, featuring Michelin-starred chef Adam Degg, Ruth Hansom, and Bettys Cookery School
Organisers behind the seventh annual Harrogate Food and Drink Festival have officially confirmed the full Cookery Theatre lineup for its return to the parklands of Ripley Castle next weekend.
Taking place on August 22, and August 23, the two-day culinary celebration will showcase ten leading chefs, artisan producers, and independent business owners from across Yorkshire.
Brand-new host and compere Stephanie Moon will head up the stage, introducing live demonstrations ranging from Michelin-starred dining to bespoke local baking.
Opening the Cookery Theatre on Saturday is Iain Wilkinson, Chef-Owner of Storehouse Kitchen, alongside Shane White, Executive Head Chef at The Inn at South Stainley.
They will be joined by Deliciously Yorkshire Rising Star award-winner Chris Hobson, Senior Sous Chef at Scarborough’s luxury hotel Wrea Head Hall, and Mikael Paylor, Head Chef at The Craven Arms in Appletreewick, who will share insights into game and foraged ingredients.
Adding a touch of sweet sophistication to Saturday’s program is Jessica Wyatt, Company Director and co-founder of Harrogate afternoon tea destination Mama Doreen’s Emporium.
Sunday's stage lineup features some of the biggest names in the region’s fine dining scene, led by Adam Degg, Head Chef at Fifty Two at Rudding Park - Harrogate’s first Michelin-starred restaurant.
Degg, a Great British Menu competitor and three-time AA Rosette honouree, will showcase dishes centered around seasonal Yorkshire produce.
Joining him on Sunday is fellow Great British Menu star and former Young National Chef of the Year Ruth Hansom, founder of Michelin-guide listed Hansom in Bedale.
The Sunday roster also includes Lisa Bennison, Manager of the renowned Bettys Cookery School; artisan creator Adam Rasburn of Wild Infused Vinegars; and Charlie Shires, founder of Harrogate independent cake business HG1 Bakes.
Beyond the Cookery Theatre, the festival at Ripley Castle will feature international street food traders, an artisan produce market, independent bars, live music, and family entertainment across both days.
Harrogate Food and Drink Festival takes place on Chapel Flats beside Ripley Castle on August 22 (10am–8pm) and August 23 (10am–7pm). Tickets and further details are available via the official Harrogate Food and Drink Festival website.