Three unmissable food-themed events in the UK

Food lovers are spoilt for choice when it comes to events themed around their favourite subject,with the annual calendar packed with a plethora of options.For foodies looking to access events overseas you can unlock YouTuber offers safely when using a VPN to open up a wealth of international possibilities.

However, if you prefer to stick to the United Kingdom, there are loads of truly unmissable food-themed events staged each year. With that in mind, we have scoured the internet to come up with three fabulous food events we think everyone should have on their bucket list.

The Big Bakes

The Great British Bake-Off (GBBO) television show has become a cultural phenomenon since it was first aired on BBC Two in August 2010. The programme made Mary Berry and fellow judge Paul Hollywood household names and sparked renewed interest in baking at home.

For anyone who fancies showcasing their baking credentials, The Big Bakes offers the chance to put your skills to the test in an inclusive environment. Staged in different locations in London and Birmingham, the events replicate many of the elements featured in the GBBO competition.

Participants have the opportunity to receive tips from an expert baker, before embarking on a 90-minute challenge to wow the judges. With a new baking theme every month, a cake themed bar, hospitality suite and beautiful drinks deck, The Big Bakes is well worth visiting.

Cheese Rolling

When it comes to events which tick all the boxes for quirkiness, you would be hard-pushed to find something that fits the bill more effectively than Cheese Rolling. Ranked as one of the top seven most bizarre ‘Feats of Strength’ events in the world, the competition attracts a massive crowd to Cooper’s Hill in Gloucestershire each year.

Competitors are tasked with chasing a hefty round of Double Gloucester cheese down a steep 180-metres hill. The first person to cross the finish line wins the cheese. Multiple races are held during the day, with separate events for men and women, making this a great day out for all the family.

Competitors must be willing to put their bodies in the line in their pursuit of glory, with the steepness and uneven layout of Cooper’s Hill often leading to brutal injuries.

Canadian competitor Delaney Irving famously won the ladies race in 2023, despite finishing unconscious. She only learned about her victory in the medical tent!

Smoke and Fire

Staged at locations in Berkshire and Essex, Smoke and Fire is a top-class celebration and showcase of the wonderful world of barbequed foods.

Highlights at the two-day events include the Great British Open Freestyle BBQ Championships, international pitmasters, fire cooks and much more.

Another event highlight for the 2025 edition will be the battle to be crowned the World Butcher Wars Champion. Australia’s Brett Laws won the 2024 title.

Visitors will also be able to tuck into BBQ food cooked by award-winning street food traders, sample cool cocktails and local brews or tackle fiery eating challenges.

With numerous other hands-on BBQ food experiences designed to tickle your taste buds, this sizzling event is guaranteed to put a smile on your face.

There is also a dedicated Kids Zone to keep your children entertained, while live music acts add another superb layer of enjoyment to proceedings.