Ilkley Food and Drink Festival announce complete Live Cookery Theatre programme - full list of participants

The full star-studded line-up for the Ilkley Food and Drink Festival has been officially confirmed, bringing a weekend of Michelin-recognised talent and TV favourites to the Riverside.

Returning for its seventh year on June 13 and 14, the celebration at East Holmes Field will feature a Live Cookery Theatre delivered in partnership with the Yorkshire Food Guide. This year’s programme is a who's who of the region's culinary scene, featuring nine experts ranging from MasterChef quarter-finalists to head chefs from some of Yorkshire’s most acclaimed dining rooms.

Festival-goers can expect ten live demonstrations across the weekend, offering a rare chance to watch award-winning chefs from the likes of Prashad, The Penny Bun, and Saltmoore share the secrets behind their signature dishes.

Who will be a part of the Live Cookery Theatre programme at Ilkley Food and Drink Festival 2026?

The professionals scheduled to appear at this year’s festivals are:

Saturday

• Tim Kitchen (The Penny Bun, Ilkley): An Estate Head Chef focused on sustainable, locally-foraged, and seasonal Yorkshire produce.
• Chris Hobson (Wrea Head Hall, Scarborough): A Senior Sous Chef with over 20 years of experience in award-winning country house dining.
• Adam Maddock (Saltmoore, Whitby): An Executive Chef and seafood specialist recently recognised in the MICHELIN Guide.
• Sandy Docherty (Great British Bake Off): The well-known GBBO contestant, author, and community volunteer who focuses on the storytelling power of baking.
• Richard Allan (NEET People): A Chef Consultant with 30 years of experience representing the charity NEET (Northcliffe Environmental Enterprises Team).

Sunday

• Varun Khanna (Rhubarb, Harrogate): A Head Chef known for blending classical techniques with contemporary seasonal British ingredients.
• Owen Diaram (Cook with Owen, Harrogate): A MasterChef UK Quarter-Finalist and private chef specialising in intricate spices and creative fine dining.
• Minal Patel (Prashad, Drighlington): The Head Chef of the world-renowned Prashad. She has led her team to 13 consecutive MICHELIN Guide Bib Gourmands.
• Sandy Docherty (Great British Bake Off): Sandy returns for a second day to host another masterclass in baking.
• Shane Zhao (Wood Hall Hotel & Spa, Wetherby): A Head Chef and Great British Menu contestant (Season 21) who holds two Michelin Plates.

Where can I get tickets to the Ilkley Food and Drink Festival 2026?

To secure your spot at the Ilkley Food and Drink Festival 2026, the most direct and reliable method is to visit the official website. This is the primary source for exclusive "Early Bird" discounts and full weekend passes, ensuring you get the best value for the event.

Alternatively, the festival typically partners with major digital ticket platforms such as Eventbrite or Skiddle. If you already have an account with these services, you can simply search for Ilkley Food and Drink Festival on their sites to complete your purchase quickly.

While tickets are usually available for purchase on the gate at the entrance to East Holmes Field on the day of the event, organisers strongly recommend booking in advance.

Pre-booked tickets are typically cheaper than gate prices and guarantee your entry should the riverside site reach its maximum capacity.