One of the North East’s biggest and best loved foodie events, Bishop Auckland Food Festival returns for 2026 on the weekend of Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 April. Organised by Durham County Council, the event brings together cookery demonstrations from TV chefs, mouth-watering cuisine from traders, as well as a lively cultural programme.

Ready to see what makes this festival so special? Here's six unmissable reasons why this festival deserves a firm spot on your must‑experience list.

 1. See TV chefs

If you are a fan of TV cookery shows, the festival promises to be a real ‘who’s who.’ Appearing across the weekend will be TV favourite Phil Vickery, last year’s Great British Bake-Off winner Jasmine Mitchell, as well as finalist from the show, Aaron Mountford-Myles.

Also in the line-up are Briony May Williams, another previous Bake-Off contestant who now presents Escape To The Country;  Lumberjaxe, who came to  the nation’s attention when securing investment on Dragon’s Den; and Shivi Ramatour, star of Jimmy and Shivi’s Farmhouse Breakfast.

2. Treat your tastebuds

With more than 150 traders gathering around Bishop Auckland’s historic Market Place, the festival is a paradise for food lovers looking to graze, sample and discover something new.

From sizzling street‑food favourites and artisan bakes to locally brewed drinks, handcrafted produce, sweet treats and innovative new arrivals, the sheer range of stalls means there’s always something tempting around the next corner. 

Expect everything from pulled pork to pancakes, fudge to craft beer - it's a true celebration of regional talent and global cuisines all in one vibrant, bustling space. Whether you’re craving comfort food, hunting down gourmet delights, or eager to try something totally different, one thing’s certain: you won’t be leaving hungry.

3. Who doesn’t love Chocolate?

If you like your chocolate, this event is for you. Chocolatier Paul A Young, who was brought up in the county, will be laying on two workshops to help you make your own. Paul will be running hour-long Perfect Truffles Masterclasses and Adventures with Chocolate sessions, on both the Saturday and Sunday. Tickets are available from Bishop Auckland Food Festival website.

4. Fun for all the family

It may be a food festival but it’s not just food on the menu. There’ll be roaming acts and live music as well as arts and crafts – including the opportunity to send a message into space! There’ll also be the chance for children to be inspired by the professionals and give it a go themselves in a cookery area, and to try out potting and planting.

5. Check out the delights of Bishop Auckland

Why not make the most of your trip by sampling what Bishop has to offer? The town is home to The Auckland Project: home to Auckland Tower, Auckland Palace and Gardens; Spanish and Mining Art Galleries; Faith Museum; Deer Park and Binchester Roman Fort. Definitely also worth a visit is majestic looking Bishop Auckland Town Hall, where you can see their current exhibition The Meaning of Being Different. Not to mention the town’s brand new Reel Cinema, which has just opened.

6. Make a break of it in Durham

If you’re coming to the food festival from afar, it makes sense to make a mini-break of it and take in some of the world class sights across the wider county. You’re not far from Durham City with its stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site of Durham Cathedral and Castle.

You’re even closer to Shildon, where Locomotion tells the story of 200 years of rail history which began when the world’s first steam powered passenger journey set off from the town. You'll find Beamish The Living Museum of the North; The Bowes Museum and Raby Castle, Park and Gardens are all within a short drive of Bishop Auckland, as well as rolling countryside and stunning coastline to explore.