DORSET is home to some of the finest food festivals in the country. There really is something for everyone this year. Here are eight tasty events not to miss in 2019.

This will make it easier for you to plan your visits to Dorset around your favourite food festivals. This year features an array of exciting and new additions to choose from.

1. Springtide Food Festival: May 18 –19, 10am–4pm

Held in the picturesque surroundings of The Hive Beach, Burton Bradstock. This fabulous food festival brings together some of the best food, drink, art and entertainment along the Jurassic Coast. From artisan bread, fresh fish and locally reared meat to locally brewed beers, ciders and sparkling wines, there’s sure to be something to get your taste buds going!

2. River Cottage Food Fair: May 25 –26, 10am–6pm

2019 heralds 20 years of River Cottage, so there will surely be some super special celebrations over the weekend. There are food demonstrations, fun for kids and masterclasses, along with plenty of delicious food to sample. A fabulous weekend for all the family to enjoy.

3. Swanage Fish Festival: June 8

For all things fishy, this festival is a real treat for all the family. Celebrations featuring delicious seafood, fishing, fun and games. Some additional musical and other entertainment is thrown in for good measure.

4. Bridport Food Festival: June 9 –15

Celebrating everything delicious in the Bridport area! This is a Dorset food festival that celebrates local produce, producers, retailers and hospitality outlets. There are certainly some tasty treats on offer here at this much-loved fixture in Bridport’s food calendar.

5. Nyetimber Dorset Seafood Festival: July 13–14 2019

Weymouth in Dorset hosts the largest seafood festival in the UK! Taking place around the historic harbour, this event is free to attend, and you will be able to sample super fresh seafood delicacies from nearly 100 stalls. Enjoy a drink whilst soaking up the atmosphere of the harbour. You might like to sample some chilled Nyetimber English Sparkling Wine.

6. Dorset Food & Arts Festival: August 3

This free, family-friendly festival is held annually in Queen Mother Square, Poundbury. There are plenty of local suppliers as well as chef demonstrations and music throughout the day.

7. The Great Dorset Chilli Festival: August 3rd–4th 2019 – 10am–4pm

The hottest day out in Dorset this year! This is a great weekend for chilli enthusiasts, food lovers and families. Held at the home of the Earl of Shaftesbury at St Giles Park, a full line up of fiery competitions and tastings can be had over the weekend. Each day ends with a chilli eating competition which is not for the faint-hearted, but definitely too much fun to miss out on!

8. Food Rocks Festival: September 7 –8

Founded by Mark Hix, with the aim of promoting food and produce from his hometown (Lyme Regis) and the surrounding areas. Bringing together top chefs, exhibitors, locals and those who are visiting Lyme Regis with demonstrations, talks and tastings over the weekend.

Hopefully, the list above should show that whatever your food preference, there is a Dorset food festival to satisfy your palate. So choose your festival and come on down to Dorset this year!

*Thanks to Dorset Coastal Cottages for this food festival guide