Northamptonshire’s beloved Delapré Food Festival returned in 2026, offering a weekend brimming with exceptional food, artisan produce, live entertainment and family-friendly activities, all set against the stunning backdrop of Delapré Abbey.
The festival excelled in combining culinary delight with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Visitors were encouraged to wander among the dazzling array of exhibitors spread throughout the grounds. Local favourites and UK-wide artisans alike offered chocolates, cheeses, spirits, baked goods, seasonings and much more, providing a feast for every taste and interest.
Street food took centre stage on the South Lawn, hosted by Bite Street, NN’s hottest street food pop-up. Highlights included Cleopatra’s Kitchen from Shirley, serving lamb kofta, chicken shish and freshly made falafels; Tapas Zampa from Lemmington Spa, offering vibrant Spanish tapas crafted with passion by Chef Adrian; and Gyro Guys from Lutterworth, dishing up authentic Greek wraps with chicken, lamb, and haloumi. Fans of wood-fired pizza enjoyed The Wood Oven from Paulerspury, while Northampton’s very own The Smoke Pit served up bold, smoky flavours. Caribbean cuisine was represented by Boxfood, offering jerk chicken, curry goat, ackee and sweet potato curry, while Birmingham’s Broke n Bone BBQ brought melt-in-your-mouth ribs and brisket buns. Other notable vendors included Phata Phat with loaded butter chicken, lamb keema and paneer tikka naan, Gaucho Stu with authentic Argentine BBQ, Beef On The Block serving steak frites and Philly cheesesteak, Good Times Cafe with gourmet grilled cheese toasties, Pork Shack offering Pan-Asian loaded fries and rice bowls, and Bad Boy Wings with award-winning chicken wings and strips.
Beyond the food, visitors could immerse themselves in a wide range of culinary experiences. Free chef demonstrations ran hourly at the Demo Stage, while the Orangery hosted cream teas by Chef Bart Polinski (extra ticket required). Cheese masterclasses with Shane Holland took place in the Drawing Room, and expert mixologists led cocktail masterclasses in the House. Wine and gin tastings in the Library offered a chance to explore flavours more deeply, with limited numbers ensuring an intimate experience.
Families were warmly welcomed. Kids cookery classes run by Rachel Wilson of Cookery Doodle Doo at the Coach House, interactive activities around the grounds, and a family circus provided entertainment for younger visitors, making the festival a genuine day out for all ages.
Heritage and history enhanced the experience. House tours were available twice daily at the Main Entrance, alongside the chance to explore the walled gardens at leisure, blending culinary culture with historic surroundings to create a unique festival identity.
Live music, outdoor bars, ample seating and picnic spaces added to the relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere. Free parking and easy access allowed visitors to focus entirely on experiencing the festival rather than worrying about logistics.
Delapré Food Festival 2026 reinforced its position as a highlight of Northamptonshire’s events calendar. With a carefully curated mix of street food, artisan producers, interactive demonstrations, family activities and the historic splendour of Delapré Abbey, it offered visitors a full sensory experience. Whether attending for the food, the educational experiences, the live entertainment, or simply a leisurely summer day out, festival-goers left with rich memories and anticipation for next year’s event.