Kingston Food Festival in Purbeck
Saturday 3 October 2026 | 1pm–5pm
St James’ Church, Kingston, Purbeck
£2 admission for adults | Under 12s go free | Free parking
Celebration of food, produce and community in the Purbeck village of Kingston
Get ready for a brand-new celebration of food, produce, community and local talent as Kingston hosts its very first Food Festival this October.
Set in one of Purbeck’s most distinctive villages, the Kingston Food Festival promises a wonderful afternoon of delicious local produce, demonstrations, tastings, live music, traditional games and plenty of village spirit.
A taste of Purbeck
Kingston’s residents have a wonderful tradition of coming together to create events that bring the community to life — from Christmas carols around the village pump and film nights in the church to tractor tours along the coast and Pimm’s on the Tower.
Now, they’re taking things up a notch.
The inaugural Food Festival will bring together villagers and an impressive selection of Purbeck food producers, showcasing the exceptional ingredients, skills and creativity found across the area.
The preparations have already become a community affair, with residents making and gathering everything from hand-carved serving platters and homemade cakes to garden produce and freshly pressed Kingston apple juice.
Visitors can expect a feast for the senses, with food to discover, demonstrations to watch and plenty of opportunities to sample something delicious.
Demonstrations, tastings & live entertainment
There’s lots happening throughout the afternoon, including:
- 🐑 Sheep shearing with a local farming family
- 🦌 Venison cookery with The Salt Pig, using local venison from the Scott Estate
- 🐟 Fish preparation and cooking demonstrations
- 🍄 A demonstration from Sacha Dorey, The Truffle Huntress
- 🔥 Local lamb barbecued over the firepit
- 🎶 Live music from members of the Ratpack
- 🎟️ An express raffle and other activities
And for younger visitors, traditional village fête-style games will bring a touch of old-fashioned fun to the afternoon.
Climb the ‘Cathedral of Purbeck’
No visit to Kingston would be complete without taking in its spectacular setting.
St James’ Church — affectionately known as the ‘Cathedral of Purbeck’ — will be opening its tower for ‘Tower on the Hour’ tours. Climb to the top and enjoy breathtaking views across the Purbeck Hills and towards Poole Harbour.
With the village perched high on the ridge between Corfe Castle and the coast, there’s plenty to admire beyond the festival itself.
Surrounded by beautiful countryside, Purbeck stone cottages and historic buildings, Kingston is a truly special place to spend an autumn afternoon.
A festival with a community heart
The Kingston Food Festival isn’t just about great food — it’s about supporting the village and its future.
Funds raised through admission, stall fees and activities will go towards the village fund, which has already helped with projects such as the renovation of Kingston’s historic village pump. Future funds will support other village initiatives, helping preserve and celebrate this special community for generations to come.
Come along, discover some of the best food and produce Purbeck has to offer, enjoy the entertainment and demonstrations, and soak up the atmosphere in one of Dorset’s most beautiful villages.
A new festival, a brilliant local community, and a very tasty reason to visit Kingston!
Note: This event listing is a guide only. For up to date information and or changes to the event please check with the organiser or venue.
