THE UK’s first-ever food festival celebrates its Silver Jubilee this September.

To mark this momentous milestone, Ludlow Food Festival is hosting a spectacular line up of demonstrations, talks, workshops and tastings, as well as showcasing 180 top-quality local food and drink producers from across the Marches.

Held in the stunning historic surroundings of Ludlow Castle, the Festival features four live cooking demonstration stages, with some big-name chefs confirmed for this year.

Established to promote the incredible produce and independent food and drink makers that hail from the Welsh Marches, several of Ludlow Food Festival’s original exhibitors are still going strong, with many new and exciting additions joining the Festival’s distinguished ranks.

Throughout its history, Ludlow Food Festival has pushed the agenda on food issues, including waste and sustainability.

To this end the Festival maintains its strong ties with the Slow Food movement, which continues to provide excellent workshops and masterclasses during the weekend.

Beyond the castle walls, visitors can also participate in the much-loved Sausage and Ale Trails; enjoy the hustle and bustle of weekend markets in Castle Square and explore the many independent retailers and restaurants that thrive in the area.

Hannah Mackley, events manager, said: “As the birthplace of the British food festival, Ludlow has an unparalleled history. We have always been incredibly proud of the high calibre names that flock to be part of our event.

“This year, yet again we have a superb line-up to ensure our Jubilee year is a truly memorable one for the 15,000 visitors who come to enjoy this extraordinary event.”

Full details and latest line-up for the event, which will take place on September 13, 14, and 15 can be found at www.ludlowfoodfestival.co.uk

To pre-book tickets, visit: www.foodfestival.co.uk