Ilkley Food and Drink Festival Itinerary: Plan Your Perfect Weekend
Make the most of Ilkley’s Food and Drink Festival with our curated two-day itinerary—blending foodie highlights, hands-on demos and local sightseeing. Whether you’re arriving by train or car, here’s how to craft a memorable weekend. For all festival details, return to our homepage.
Before You Go
- Dates & Times: 19–20 July 2025, 10:00–18:00 daily (see opening hours)
- Location: Victoria Avenue & Wells Road, central Ilkley (get directions on our location page)
- Travel:
- Train: Ilkley station → 8-minute walk (check times under Ilkley train station).
- Bus: Routes 962/963 stop at Brook Street (bus routes).
- Taxi: Local firms listed here → Ilkley taxis).
- Weather Check: Pack layers and waterproofs—preview conditions at weather in Ilkley.
- Tickets & Bookings: Free entry; reserve demo seats and tasting slots via our booking page.
Day 1: Saturday
10:00 Arrival & Welcome
- Grab a festival map from the info marquee.
- Pick up your reusable tasting mug.
- Fuel up with coffee from the Coffee Corner—barista tutorials start at 10:15.
10:30 Artisan Market Stroll
- Wander stalls offering local cheese, fresh pasta and Ilkley Honey Co. products.
- Snap a photo at the festival’s floral arch for Insta-worthy memories.
11:00 Cookery Demonstration
- Demo Stage 1: “Summer Salads with Local Greens” by Chef Tessa Dale.
- Booked out? Join the standby queue or catch the replay at 14:00 on Demo Stage 2.
- Learn more about chef backgrounds on our about us page.
12:00 Street-Food Feast
- Head to Victoria Avenue: sample pies from Yorkshire Pie Company and jackfruit sliders from Green Leaf Vegan.
- Don’t miss mini donuts at Sweet Steam for a mid-browse treat.
13:30 Craft Beer & Cider Tasting
- Visit the Beverage Bar: try Wold Top Summer Lightning or Elderflower Cider from Farmer’s Orchard.
- For guided flights, reserve a spot under booking.
15:00 Family & Fun
- Families: drop in at the Family Zone in Westcroft Gardens—crafts, face-painting and story hour.
- Solo explorers: check out our “Top 10 Street Food Vendors” or revisit your favourites.
16:00 Gin Tasting Bar
- Pay-as-you-go serves featuring Ilkley Distillery’s Wharfedale Gold.
- Want expert pairing tips? Book a masterclass slot via booking.
17:00 Sunset Snacks & Souvenirs
- Enjoy a final glass of festival fizz.
- Pick up artisan gifts: local honey, craft sauces and your festival tote (free for early arrivals).
Day 2: Sunday
10:00 Brunch Bites
- Start with crepes and waffles at Dough & Found on Wells Road.
- Pair with a fruit cup from the Kids’ Snack Stall (even if you’re not with little ones!).
11:00 Junior Demo or Masterclass
- Demo Stage 1: “Mini Muffins & Smoothies” for kids (book via booking).
- Masterclass Tent: Artisan bread-making with local bakers—limited seats.
12:30 Lunch & Learn
- Sample charcuterie boxes from The Cured Collective while enjoying live music at the Entertainment Stage.
- For quieter options, stroll to nearby cafés—see places to eat for recommendations.
14:00 Cocktail Pairings Demo
- Demo Stage 2: “Cocktail Pairings” unlocks perfect food-drink matches.
- Join the tasting afterwards (ticketed via booking).
15:30 Petting Farm & Market
- Meet goats and lambs at the Petting Zoo.
- Support junior farmers at the mini market—purchase jams and eggs.
16:30 Last-Call Sips
- Revisit the Gin Tasting Bar or grab a final pint from Faithful Brewing’s “Driftwood” session IPA.
- Chat with brewers and distillers before they pack up.
17:30 Wind-Down & Departure
- Return your tasting mug at the info marquee for a small refund.
- Head into town for dinner at Il Bacio Café or The Cookhouse—find more under nearby attractions.
Extend Your Weekend
- Explore Ilkley: River walks, antique shops and gardens—check “things to do in Ilkley” for ideas.
- Stay Local: Book a B&B via our contact us page for recommendations.
- Share Your Experience: Tag us @TheGinLoungeIlkley and use #IlkleyFoodFest2025.
Ready to lock in your plans? Visit our booking page for demos and tastings, or contact us with any questions. We can’t wait to celebrate great food—and even better company—with you!
