Wealden District Council (Monday 9 June 2014), gives a glimpse of possibilities for the first Food and Wine Festival at Pevensey Castle
“The food and drink lovingly created in the green and pleasant land by the sea that is Wealden will be showcased in the District’s first ever Food and Wine Festival taking place at Pevensey Castle over the weekend of 30 and 31 August”, explain the team behind the event that has captured interest from residents of local villages and the business community.
Simon Montgomery, editor of Bay Life commented; ‘this is the first time in recent years that we have seen English Heritage and Wealden Council working together to sponsor a major event at the Castle. As well as the extensive arrangements behind the planning, it looks like it will be a good mix and balance and an attraction for families from far and wide’.
Talking about the sterling work done by English Heritage, Wealden Council, local councillors and stakeholders over the last two years, to see that Pevensey Castle is put back on the history map he added ‘this event is a tribute to all of the people who have put so much applied effort into the cause of the Castle who saw the desperate need to re-profile its historic place in the story not just of the village, but the country. It is a potentially big (free) ticket event and exactly what we need to begin to raise our banner again’.
“Wealden is a hidden away haven of rural tranquillity making it the perfect place to nurture fine food and drink,” said Councillor Roy Galley, Cabinet member for Economic Development and Regeneration.
“We have the Bluebell Vineyard and Hobdens Vineyard in the north, the Rathfinny Estate and the Long Man Brewery in the south; and a host a traditional cheese makers on our doorstep including The High Weald Dairy, The Traditional Cheese Dairy and Alsop & Walker, as well as many new exciting ventures, yet to be discovered. The Pevensey Food & Wine Festival is a great way of showcasing delights like these against the stunning backdrop of Pevensey Castle.”
The Food and Wine Festival is taking place on Saturday 30 and Sunday 31 August, the ideal time of the year to highlight the very best of Sussex food & wine, produce, artisan goods, local crafts and culture. Entry will be free.
Exhibitor stands will be set around the castle walls, inside the entrance to the castle itself.
Some of the many highlights will be:
- cooking and wine demonstrations
- live music
- street entertainers
- storytellers
- free guided walks around the Castle to learn more of its history.
The only criteria for exhibitors are that they are located within a 30-mile radius of Pevensey. The following businesses have already confirmed they will be exhibiting at the event: Harbourne Vineyard, Java Bus Coffee, Seasoned Sausage, Downsview Farm, Chapter 12, Sugar Mice (ice cream) Ltd and Pembury Porkers.
“The aim of the festival is to promote local produce and local businesses in the area and priority will be given to those who meet those requirements,” said Jane Kilby, Wealden’s Tourism Officer. “Stalls are provided and are available from £175 within the historic grounds of Pevensey Castle, courtesy of English Heritage.”
“We are looking forward to a big event which will draw visitors in from across the South East for an enjoyable weekend of food and fun for all ages.”
Businesses and organisations interested in taking part, should email
If you want to discuss anything, please contact 01892 602881.
