The Abergavenny Food Festival was started in 1999 by two local farmers, Chris Wardle and Martin Orbach, in the aftermath of the BSE crisis. Over the last decade the Festival has grown - and continues to grow – but is still holds true to the basic principles around which it started.

Comint up to its 13th year, the Festival continues to play host to some of the brightest lights of the food world.

Celebrate the conviviality and sociability that surrounds eating and drinking, whether with friends or strangers and enjoy real Welsh hospitality with Abergavenny's own burgeoning food community.

The extensive markets, situated in the centre of this historic border town, spill into the streets and lanes and feature the best producers from Wales, the Marches, and further afield.

Venues are situated close together and include the Market Hall, where stallholders are all 'True Taste' award-winners, the Cheese and Wine Show, and the Fish Market at The Priory Centre. There's lots on offer too for families with young children in the grounds of the ancient Castle, including a Food Academy with hands-on workshops, plus story-telling, comedy and live music.

In addition to the main markets there are individually ticketed Masterclasses, Tutored Tastings and Talks showcasing some of the most skilled, passionate and knowledgeable practitioners in the country alongside local and regional talent.

The festival's aims are to celebrate the growers, the processors, the cooks, the campaigners, the artists and writers. As well as this, the festival champions craft in food-making - be it on the farm, in the factory or in the kitchen. The diversity of foods and traditions, both here in Wales and those of other places.

“Abergavenny is to food what Cannes is to film– an annual festival for spotting rising stars in Britain’s artisan food firmament” Joanna Blythman, Observer Food Monthly