On 3, 10, 17, and 24 August, Knightshayes near Tiverton will being holding their second summer celebration of local food and music in the parkland.

A free day out for all the family, Soupstock began in 2013 as a way to help new audiences discover Knightshayes. The aim was to put together an event that promoted local music to complement the local food served in Knightshayes’ café – much of which was sourced from the walled kitchen garden. All of the entertainment took place outside the gothic stables block against a backdrop of rolling Devon hills.

Last year’s line-up included some great local bands and tribute acts and this year the format will be much the same, with music running between 12noon and 5pm on each of the four days. An eclectic mix of musical acts from Devon and Somerset, ranging from acoustic folk and jazz to skiffle and rock, will be playing; and this year’s tribute acts include The Blues Brothers on 3 August, Dolly Parton on 10 August, Michael Jackson on 17 August and Abba on the 24 August.

Organiser of the event, Visitor Services Manager, Alice Morgan-Brown, said: ‘Soupstock is a celebration of everything Knightshayes has to offer. I couldn’t believe how many people turned out for Abba last year – or how many people knew all the words! There was a great atmosphere for all the events, and it was brilliant to have the chance to showcase some great home-grown talent with the local bands.’

Gates will open as usual from 10am with live music on the Stables lawn set to commence from 12noon. There will be a barbecue serving locally sourced meat, and, of course, a variety of home-made soups for sale. For kids, there will be a stand offering free activities and, as the event is in the parkland, well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome too.