Bolton Food and Drink Festival returns for its 21st birthday!

Bolton Food and Drink Festival are serving up an unmissable programme this summer, with celebrity chef James Martin, the hugely popular Fawlty Towers The Dining Experience, and a weekend of free live music headlined by Liberty X and The Real Thing.

Taking place over the August Bank Holiday weekend, the award‑winning festival will once again transform Bolton town centre into a vibrant celebration of food, drink and live entertainment, attracting visitors from across the region and beyond.

James Martin returns to the festival

Festival favourite and TV chef James Martin is set to return with a series of live cookery demonstrations, taking place at the Albert Halls on the Saturday of the festival.

A highlight of the programme every year, James Martin’s demonstrations regularly sell out, with audiences enjoying top culinary tips, crowd‑pleasing dishes and behind‑the‑scenes stories from one of the UK’s best‑known chefs. Tickets are on sale now and early booking is strongly advised.

Fawlty Towers dining experience back by popular demand

Also returning is the much‑loved Fawlty Towers The Dining Experience, bringing immersive comedy and chaos to the Albert Halls with a 1970s‑style three‑course meal served alongside classic scenes inspired by the iconic TV show.

The ticketed event has become one of the festival’s fastest‑selling attractions in recent years and promises another evening of laughter, unforgettable interactions and theatrical mayhem.

Liberty X and The Real Thing to headline free live music

Music fans can also look forward to an incredible weekend of free live performances, with Liberty X headlining on the Sunday night and soul legends The Real Thing topping the bill on Saturday evening.

Liberty X will bring their iconic pop hits to the main stage in Bolton town centre, while The Real Thing will deliver a feel‑good set packed with timeless classics, ensuring two huge nights of live music at the heart of the festival.

Something for everyone

Alongside headline chefs, comedy dining and live music, the four‑day festival will feature hundreds of food and drink traders, bars, regional chef demonstrations, family activities and street entertainment, making it a true celebration for all ages.

The festival is free to attend, with tickets required only for selected special events including the James Martin demonstrations and the Fawlty Towers dining experience.

For full programme details and to book tickets, visit their website.