If you’re after a proper day out packed with incredible food, local charm and a good dollop of Yorkshire humour, the Malton Food Festival is where it’s at. Returning for the late May bank holiday (24th–26th May), this free-to-enter event transforms Malton into the ultimate destination for food lovers.
What is Malton Food Festival?
Often called the “foodie Glastonbury” (but with fewer tents and far more cheese), the Malton Food Festival is a buzzing three-day celebration of Yorkshire’s finest produce. It’s been going strong since 2008 and now draws thousands of hungry visitors to the town’s cobbled streets and marketplace.
Expect around 120 stalls loaded with everything from artisan pies to fiery hot sauces. You can sniff, sample and scoff your way through a smorgasbord of local delights. And yes, there’s plenty to wash it down with- think local gin, cider, and Yorkshire craft beer.
Things kick off on Saturday at 09:00 until 18:00, then from 10:00 to 18:00 on Sunday, and finishes up a bit earlier on Monday, running from 10:00 to 17:00.
Chef demos with Yorkshire flair
At the heart of the festival is the Chef Demo stage, hosted by Malton’s own Gilly Robinson from The Cook’s Place. It’s a chance to get up close with some of Britain’s top culinary talent, including TV chefs, Bake Off favourites and even a forager who looks like he wrestles mushrooms for a living.
From mastering barbecue techniques to seeing how the pros plate up, it’s inspiring stuff. You might even grab a book signing or a cheeky selfie, if you’re lucky.
New for 2025: Grill & Smoke Festival
This year brings something extra meaty: the new Grill & Smoke Festival at The Talbot Hotel’s riverside meadow. Think smoky flavours, sizzle-filled showdowns and a BBQ arena that’ll have you drooling before you even arrive.
There’ll be Weber BBQ demos, expert pitmasters and enough pulled pork and brisket to satisfy the hungriest carnivore. It’s the kind of place where the air itself could be bottled and sold as marinade.
More than just a feast
Of course, it wouldn’t be Yorkshire without some entertainment. Expect live music, brass bands, kids’ activities, a full-on funfair and even a six-foot puffin from the RSPB. Why? Why not. It’s Malton.
There’s a sculpture trail to wander, blacksmithing workshops for hands-on types, and late-night gigs to keep the party going. You could easily spend all day nibbling and nosing around, with something new at every turn.
Getting to Malton Food Festival
Malton is well connected by train and bus. The town sits on the TransPennine Express line between Liverpool and Scarborough, with direct trains from York and Scarborough. The Coastliner bus also stops here, making it an easy day trip.
If you’re driving, use the Park & Ride services. It’s £7.50 per car (card only), with regular shuttles running from Riverside Meadows and Highfield Road. You can walk to town from the car parks in about 10–15 minutes if you’re feeling sprightly.
Final thoughts
Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just someone who appreciates a good sausage roll, the Malton Food Festival is an absolute treat. It’s one of those Yorkshire weekends out that leaves you full, happy, and probably planning next year’s visit before you’ve even left.
So bring your appetite, your walking shoes, and maybe a bag big enough to carry home a wheel of cheese. See you there!