Festival Information

About Us

Weaving together the three fundamental elements that make the Dales Festival of Food and Drink a success – Food, Farming and Fun - this event already has a real buzz about it.

Not least because the Farming for Food events include talks and demonstrations on beekeeping by the Richmond and District Beekeepers Association. Visitors will find something for everyone from the best locally sources organic meats to award-winning beers within the festival's own Drinks Marquee and 'Beer Festival'.

To entertain the DFFD brings together live cookery demonstrations from the region's top chefs, a 'Speakers Corner' featuring established authors and speakers, plus a range of rides and entertainments for children and young people.

But the festival is not just about a great show – it is organised by the Leyburn and Mid-Wensleydale Partnership Ltd, a registered charity ,and any financial surplus from the event goes to community causes. Since its inception in 2002, the Dales Festival of Food and Drink has generated surplus funds of over £100,000.

These funds have been distributed to local community organisations which have ranged geographically from Hunton to East Witton and from Constable Burton to Bainbridge, and range from Christmas lights and small Rotary Club initiatives, to village hall expenditure in Newton-le-Willows, Wensley and Thornton Rust, for example. We are proud to have contributed to the Multiple Sclerosis Society, and it is fair to say that the Leyburn Band has benefited hugely from Community Fund Grants.

The event supports small, local businesses, and has often acted as a springboard to success. At the 2004 Festival, for example, one trader was running home at the end of each day to make more stock. They are now well established and selling to Fortnum and Mason!

None of this happens without the invaluable assistance of the volunteers, both during the Festival and in its preparation and aftermath. So if you fancy being a part of this great annual Dales event, please contact the Tourist Information Centre in Leyburn who will put you in touch with our Festival Administrator.

Getting There

The site is well signed and is located on the outskirts of the town on the A684, approaching Leyburn from the east.

Alternatively, why not travel to Leyburn the scenic way on the newly opened Wensleydale Railway, which runs from Leeming Bar Station to Leyburn. Full information can be obtained by visiting www.wensleydalerailway.com

For accommodation details and route map to Leyburn, please visit the website of the Leyburn and mid-Wensleydale Business Association at www.wensleydale.net. Alternatively, why not spend the weekend at a farm. Visit www.farmstayuk.co.uk for details.

On Sunday and Monday the Dalesbus summer network will be in operation, linking Leyburn with Wakefield, Bradford, Leeds, Harrogate, Pateley Bridge and Ripon. See the Dalesbus website www.dalesbus.org

Parking

A free parking facility is provided at the Festival site.

Enjoy the variety of independent shops and eating establishments that Leyburn has to offer, which is only a short walk away from the Festival site.

Controlled disabled parking is available at the Festival site.

Coach parking is provided adjacent to the main site.