A Taste of Coastal Life: Festivals, Flavours, and Fresh Local Produce Await
South Devon, with its stunning coastline, rolling green hills, and rich agricultural heritage, is a true paradise for food lovers. From freshly caught seafood to artisan cheeses, craft beers, and award-winning ciders, this region’s culinary calendar is bursting with vibrant celebrations of local produce.
Looking ahead to 2025, the dates are shaping up for another unforgettable year of taste sensations. So, whether you’re a dedicated foodie or simply love exploring new flavours, it’s time to mark your diary and start planning those delicious getaways!
To make it easier, here’s our guide to the confirmed and anticipated food and drink festivals lighting up South Devon’s calendar in 2025.
Highlights for Your 2025 Food and Drink Festival Calendar
1. South West Sardine Festival
📅 When: Sunday, August 3rd, 2025, 12:00 PM – 9:30 PM
📍 Where: Brixham Harbourside
What to Expect:
This lively new addition to the calendar celebrates the humble but delicious sardine in true Brixham style. Expect a buzzing harbour-side atmosphere, creative sardine dishes, live music, and an authentic glimpse into Brixham’s rich fishing heritage. It’s a perfect summer day out for the whole family — fun, flavourful and unforgettable.
2. Love Local Food Festival
📅 When: Saturday, August 9th, 2025
📍 Where: Exeter Castle, Exeter
What to Expect:
Exeter’s food festival is an essential stop for any foodie visiting the area. It promises an irresistible mix of local producers, chef demonstrations and a bustling atmosphere within the historic grounds of Exeter Castle and Northernhay Gardens.
3. England’s Seafood Feast
📅 When: Friday, September 26th – Saturday, October 12th, 2025
📍 Where: Across the English Riviera (Brixham, Paignton, Torquay)
What to Expect:
This spectacular celebration of seafood transforms the entire English Riviera into a haven for fish and shellfish enthusiasts. Participating restaurants and cafes serve special menus and host exclusive events, including tasting dinners, cookery classes and boat trips. Prepare for a true deep dive into South Devon’s incredible seafood scene!
4. Powderham Food Festival
📅 When: Saturday, October 4th – Sunday, October 5th, 2025
📍 Where: Powderham Castle
What to Expect:
Set against the magnificent backdrop of Powderham Castle, this beloved festival brings together Devon’s finest food and drink producers. Enjoy cookery demonstrations, workshops, family activities and countless chances to sample and shop for everything from artisan cheeses to handcrafted spirits and baked treats.
5. Dartmouth Food Festival
📅 When: Thursday, October 24th – Saturday, October 26th, 2025
📍 Where: Dartmouth town centre
What to Expect:
Widely regarded as one of the best food festivals in the UK, this award-winning event transforms Dartmouth into a vibrant foodie haven. Expect hundreds of local and national exhibitors, inspiring live chef demos, tasting sessions, workshops, and a buzzing festival atmosphere. It’s a true showcase of South Devon’s culinary excellence, from freshly caught seafood to artisan bakes and craft drinks.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Festival Visit
Check Official Websites:
While we’ve included confirmed dates where possible, always visit each festival’s website for the latest details on programmes, ticketing, and special events. Many popular activities require advance booking.
Taste and Support Local:
Arrive hungry! Festivals are the perfect opportunity to sample and support incredible local producers. Bring a reusable shopping bag for your favourite finds.
Explore Beyond the Festival:
While you’re in town, explore the charming streets, independent shops, and waterfront cafes. You’ll often discover hidden gems and unexpected delights just steps away from the festival action.
Stay, Savour and Soak up the Atmosphere: Your Perfect Festival Retreat
To truly soak up the atmosphere and make the most of your visit, why not stay local? At Saltwater Escapes, we offer a carefully curated selection of beautiful holiday homes and cottages across Brixham and South Devon.
Whether you prefer a stylish harbourside apartment, a cosy coastal cottage, or a spacious home for a group getaway, you’ll find the perfect base to relax and recharge after a day of delicious indulgence.
Browse our collection of Saltwater Escapes properties and secure your ideal stay for a memorable 2025 festival adventure.
Join the Feast in South Devon
South Devon’s food and drink scene is a joy to explore year-round, with countless farmers’ markets, local eateries, and seaside shacks always ready to tempt you. But these festivals offer a concentrated burst of flavour, fun, and community spirit that’s simply unmissable.
Get ready to savour the best of this beautiful region – see you there, and happy feasting!
