Exeter to Celebrate Best of Local Food and Drink at Gate to Plate Festival

Exeter is set to host a celebration of the region's finest food and drink producers when the Exeter Gate to Plate Food Festival comes to Sidwell Street on Sunday 4 October.

The free, family-friendly event will bring together more than 70 food and drink makers from across Devon and the surrounding area, with most producers based within a 30-mile radius of Exeter.

Visitors can expect a wide variety of local produce including artisan bakers, farmers, brewers, orchardists, coffee roasters, delicatessens, sweet treats and an array of street food vendors.

The festival is being organised by eat:Festivals in partnership with Gate to Plate and aims to support independent businesses by keeping trader costs low, ensuring more money goes directly back into local producers and their communities.

Organisers say the one-day event will offer something for everyone, with entertainment and activities throughout the day alongside the extensive food and drink offering.

The festival prides itself on being accessible, inclusive and inspiring, with a wide range of options available including gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian and alcohol-free food and drinks.

As well as providing an opportunity to shop locally and discover new flavours, the event is expected to offer a relaxed day out for families and friends in the heart of the city.

Visitors hoping to enjoy the best selection of produce are encouraged to arrive early to avoid the busiest periods.

eat:Festivals is a not-for-profit social enterprise that specialises in developing events that bring communities together, showcase local producers and help businesses reach new customers.

Organisers hope the Exeter Gate to Plate Food Festival will continue to grow and become a regular fixture in Exeter's annual events calendar.

If you are thinking of applying to trade with eat:Festivals,  head over to www.eatfestivals.org/apply.