Rick Stein and Russell Watson among the celebrities appearing at East Devon festivals

South West residents get ready for a spectacular trio of festivals

As the busy school holiday season winds down, East Devon is gearing up to offer visitors and locals alike an indulgent escape with a trio of exceptional festivals this September.

The Budleigh Salterton Literary Festival, Taste East Devon Festival, and Sidmouth & East Devon Walking Festival are organised, and supported, by a diverse range of dedicated local partners and sponsors, whose collaboration has been essential in bringing these events to life.

Festival goers can look forward to a feast for the senses, with the finest food and drink, engaging literary discussions, and immersive nature experiences. The events are designed to celebrate the provenance of local produce, the importance of well-being, and the unique
cultural offerings that make East Devon a truly remarkable place.

Whether you’re a foodie seeking the freshest seasonal produce, a literature lover looking to dive into thought-provoking discussions, or someone who simply wants to reconnect with nature or exercise in the great outdoors, East Devon’s festivals offer the perfect blend of
indulgence and enrichment.

From the award-winning Pebblebed Vineyard to St Peter's Church in Budleigh Salterton, venues across the region will host an eclectic array of experiences. Attendees can expect to engage with celebrity chefs Michael Caines and Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, bestselling author Richard Harris as well as filmmaker and producer Philippa Langley and the BBC’s Carol Klein - to name but a few of the inspirational people taking part in the events.

The festivals showcase East Devon District Council's commitment to offering high-quality, sustainable and unrivalled visitor and local community experiences, and perfectly represent its strategic vision to be the leading, year-round tourism destination in Devon. Celebrity chef Michael Caines said: "East Devon is a unique and special place, both for the local community and visitors. I'm passionate about promoting the area and what it has to offer. The Taste East Devon Festival showcases not only award-winning local and seasonal produce but also the best producers, chefs and restaurants in the area. As a collective we can showcase the very best of East Devon and the cultural diversity of our locality.

“I'm extremely proud to be Devonshire and these festivals promote what East Devon has to offer to a broader community. The three festivals form unique experiences and as a collective really put East Devon on the map in terms of what is on offer not only during the festival season but across the whole year. September festival season is shaping up to be an interesting experience with something for everyone."

Cllr Nick Hookway, Portfolio Holder for Culture, Sport, Leisure and Tourism at East Devon District Council, said: “These festivals showcase East Devon as a vibrant cultural centre and align perfectly with the aims of our tourism strategy. We have a fantastic ecosystem of local businesses, villages and towns, throughout East Devon, and we want to ensure they thrive in both peak holiday times and out of season.”

“These festivals not only bring star power to East Devon, they are a testament to the collaborative spirit of the East Devon people and the unique character of our district.

“We are delighted that so many of our local producers, food and drink specialists, hotels and retailers are taking part, as the involvement of these local businesses is crucial to the festivals’ success and demonstrate the variety, quality and uniqueness of our brilliant businesses.”

East Devon's September festival lineup

Budleigh Salterton Literary Festival

From September 18-22, the Budleigh Salterton Literary Festival will gather literary icons and influential voices in the seaside town for a series of engaging talks, workshops, and family and children’s events. Acclaimed tenor Russell Watson, bestselling crime writer Clare Mackintosh, Cornwall restaurateur and chef Rick Stein, and Carol Klein, from BBC Gardeners’ World, are just a few of the famous faces appearing at this year’s festival.

Sue Briggs, Chair of the Budleigh Salterton Literary Festival Committee, commented: “In the intimate and picturesque setting of Budleigh Salterton, we are bringing together some of the most compelling voices around today and our aim is to spark conversations that resonate beyond the festival, leaving our audiences not only entertained but deeply inspired.

“We welcome everyone from avid readers to curious minds and encourage them to experience the unique blend of culture and coastal charm that only East Devon can offer.” Taste East Devon Festival

Taste East Devon Festival

Running from September 14-22, the Taste East Devon Festival is a true feast for the senses, showcasing the very best of East Devon's food and drink, with multiple events happening each day. From farm-to-fork dining experiences to tasting sessions with local producers and cooking courses, this festival is a must for foodies seeking authentic and sustainably sourced delights. From fresh local seafood to artisan delicacies, Taste East Devon showcases the very best of the region’s culinary landscape, making it a highlight for food enthusiasts.

Sushila Moles, Chair of the Taste East Devon Festival, says “Taste East Devon gives visitors a chance to experience East Devon’s culinary landscape, where every meal is a reflection of our commitment to quality and local sourcing.

“We’re proud to offer a festival that not only highlights our fantastic producers but also invites people to engage with the stories behind the food. We encourage food lovers from near and far, to come and taste what makes East Devon so unique and to discover the warmth and
hospitality of our local community.”

Sidmouth & East Devon Walking Festival

Visitors are invited to sample the natural beauty of East Devon during the Sidmouth & East Devon Walking Festival, held from September 14-20. Now in its 11th year, the festival offers a full programme of 24 daily walks, led by experienced volunteer guides, and the opportunity
to explore the impressive East Devon Way.

Ted Swan, a founder member of the Sidmouth & East Devon Walking Festival, shared: “Our festival is a celebration of East Devon’s extraordinary landscapes, from its rolling hills and coastal paths to its serene woodlands and river valleys.

“What sets this festival apart is the range of walks on offer, catering to all interests and fitness levels, and the chance to explore areas that are off the beaten track. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual walker, we invite you to join us for an unforgettable experience that connects you with the natural beauty and rich heritage of East Devon.”

Example itinerary: Friday 20th September

Start your day immersed in the beautiful East Devon countryside at Lily Farm Vineyard, Budleigh Salterton, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. As you tour the vineyard and savour award-winning wines, as part of the Taste East Devon Festival, you'll gain an appreciation for the care and dedication that goes into creating these exceptional flavours, setting the perfect tone for a day dedicated to the finer things in life.

From there, you can take a short trip to the Trinity Hill Nature Reserve, near Axminster, for  the Sidmouth & East Devon Walking Festival’s 5.5-mile circular walk at 2.00PM. Taking in the breathtaking coastal views, you’ll find a deep connection between the land and the flavours you experienced earlier.

Moving on to the Budleigh Salterton Literary Festival, you can round off your day back in Budleigh Salterton for the evening, with the Booklovers’ Wine Tasting event at Church on the Green, starting at 7.45PM, and discover authors such as crime writer Richard Coles.

Bringing your day full circle, you’ll discover the perfect wine pairings for your favourite literary genres, as certified Sommelier, Rebecca Mitchell, guides you through this important literary decision, with short readings from each genre by Tim Hubbard.

For more information:

Budleigh Literary Festival: www.budlitfest.org.uk

Taste East Devon Festival: www.tasteeastdevon.co.uk

Sidmouth & East Devon Walking Festival:
www.visitdevon.co.uk/listing/sidmouth-and-east-devon-walking-festival/310588301

East Devon District Council’s Culture strategy

East Devon District Council’s Tourism strategy: Tourism Strategy

The project of PR support, for EDDC’s promotion of the festivals, has received funding from the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.