Ultimate Guide to the Ilkley Food and Drink Festival 2025: What to Expect
Ilkley’s annual Food and Drink Festival is back for 2025, bringing artisan producers, street-food stars and live demonstrations to the heart of our town. Whether you’re a foodie, a family or simply curious, here’s everything you need to know to plan your perfect festival weekend. For more on what we do year-round, visit our homepage.
Festival Overview
- Dates: Saturday 19 – Sunday 20 July 2025
- Location: Central Ilkley, Victoria Avenue & Wells Road (see our location page)
- Hours: 10:00 – 18:00 each day (confirm on our opening hours page)
- Entry: Free to stroll—pay-as-you-eat at stalls
What’s On
1. Street-Food Village
Over 40 vendors serving everything from Yorkshire-smoked brisket to vegan falafel wraps. Don’t miss:
- The Yorkshire Pie Company: Game-meat specials
- Green Leaf Vegan: Jackfruit “pulled pork” sliders
- Sweet Steam: Mini donuts with seasonal fruit
2. Artisan Market
Meet local producers under the marquees:
- Chapel Ice-Cream: Unusual flavours like lavender & honey
- Ilkley Honey Co.: Raw honey, beeswax candles
- Handmade Pasta Ltd.: Fresh ravioli and sauces
3. Cookery Demonstrations
Two stages host daily demos by Michelin-trained chefs and food writers:
- 10:30: “Summer Salads with Local Greens”
- 12:00: “Street-Food Secrets”
- 14:00: “Bake Your Own Artisan Bread”
- 16:00: “Cocktail Pairings” (book your spot via booking)
4. Drink Experiences
- Craft Beer & Cider Bar: Sample brews from Yorkshire micro-breweries
- Gin Tasting Bar: Pay-as-you-go serves featuring whisk-and-water gins (courtesy of The Gin Lounge Ilkley)
- Coffee Corner: Barista tutorials and speciality beans
Planning Your Visit
Tickets & Bookings
- Cookery Demos & Masterclasses: Limited seats—secure yours on our booking page.
- VIP Tasting Sessions: Small-group gin or beer flights; reserve in advance.
Getting Here
- By Train: Ilkley station is a 10-minute stroll—see our train station FAQ for timetables.
- By Bus: Local routes 962, 963 stop at Brook Street—check bus routes for details.
- By Car: Limited on-street parking; consider nearby paid car parks and arrive early.
- By Taxi: Local firms listed under our Ilkley taxis FAQ.
Family & Accessibility
- Family Zone: Craft activities and soft-play area in Westcroft Gardens.
- Wheelchair Access: Firm pathways throughout; accessible toilets at the festival office.
- Pet Policy: Well-behaved dogs on leads welcome—bring water bowls and pick-up bags.
Where to Eat & Drink Nearby
Fuel up before or after the festival at these local favourites:
- Il Bacio Café – Breakfast pastries and brunch (see places to eat).
- The Cookhouse – Seasonal bistro with riverside terrace.
- The Whispering Chair – Craft beers and light bites.
Need more ideas? Explore things to do in Ilkley and nearby attractions to fill your weekend.
Tips for a Smooth Festival
- Arrive Early: Beat the queues for popular stalls and demos.
- Stay Hydrated: Water refill stations are free—bring your own bottle.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll walk miles on cobbled streets.
- Carry Cash: Some small traders prefer cash payments.
- Check the Weather: July can surprise—consult our weather in Ilkley page.
Need Help or More Info?
For any questions, dietary requirements or group bookings, please contact us. We look forward to seeing you at the Ilkley Food and Drink Festival 2025—cheers!
