A NEW food and drink festival is set to launch in 2024. 

The Bath & West Society has announced that they will be hosting new food and drink festival from March 23-24 2024, which will also include the 28th edition of the British Cheese Awards. 

The festival will be a celebration of the South West's farmers, producers and purveyors.

It will be built around the British Cheese Awards judging arena, giving visitors the chance to view the country's top cheeses and sample some trophy winners. 

Food and drink stands will surround the judging area, bringing together the region’s best in cider, beer, jam, gelato, cheese, chocolate and more. 

Jess Chiplen, head of shows at The Royal Bath & West Society, said they are 'so excited' to host the event. 

"Set in the heart of the Somerset countryside, we’re surrounded by some of the country’s very best food and drink, so we feel ideally placed to stage a big celebration of our farmers, producers, chefs and retailers," she said.

"We now have the perfect home for the British Cheese Awards too, and can’t wait to share the awe-inspiring sight of the judging arena with a new food loving crowd.

"We hope to fly the flag for our region and get people thinking, but first and foremost the festival will be a place to share in the joy of outstanding food and drink.”

On the main stage, there will be special guests covering topics from farming to feasting. There will be a bierkeller area with a variety of real ales and craft beer, as well as Kids Zone with creative activities. 

The British Cheese Awards 2024 judging will take place on Friday, March 22, with tastings and tours on offer throughout the Bath & West Food & Drink Festival. The British Cheese Awards are open for entries until February 28. 

The Bath & West Food & Drink Festival will take place at the showground near Shepton Mallet from March 23-24 2024. 

For more information visit bathandwest.com/food-and-drink-festival.