This month the Foodies Festival, the UK’s largest celebration of food and drink, will return to Bristol’s Harbourside. Thousands of visitors from the city and beyond are expected to take part in a range of culinary activities.

Running from Friday 11th to Sunday 13th July, there’s a line-up a top chefs such as Great British Menu judge Glynn Purnell, Masterchef winner Mat Follas, and foodie expert from The Telegraph newspaper Xanthe Clay.

The festival highlights Bristol’s vibrant food scene with the best of local food offerings. It makes a perfect trip for food lovers living or visiting the south-west of England.

Our own chef Matt Lord is looking forward to the festival’s Producer Market, as he loves nothing more than building a dish around a seasonal, freshly picked ingredients. Being a forager, Matt’s menu at our restaurant, The River Grille, has a heavy emphasis on fresh, local food.

There’s nothing better than “working with our supply chain and using suppliers from the South West ensures that we get top quality products to work with,” our chef Matt explains.

There will be over 200 exhibitors at the Foodies Festival so visitors can expect to be spoilt for choice with award-winning British produce and artisan food from the local area.

Prepare your tastebuds to be tickled… With a bakery and preserves theatre, a host of top pastry chefs, chocolatiers, sugarcraft experts, and jam makers, samples will be on offer – and you’ll even get the chance to roll up your sleeves and lend a helping hand.

A new feature this year is a Feasting Tent, where visitors can join chefs, friends and family at banqueting tables, and take part in a daily tea dance in the Vintage Tea Tent. And it’s not just about the food either. Who said you need a reason to pop a cork? Be sure not to miss local wine connoisseur Suzy Atkins and champagne expert Neil Phillips.

The Foodies Festival takes place 11-13 July from 11am until 8pm each day. For further information, including ticket prices and details of VIP passes, visit www.foodiesfestival.com