What is Winchester Cheese and Chilli Festival?

Winchester Cheese & Chilli Festival is happening on 6 June to 7 June 2026 at North Walls, Winchester. It is the the one and only event in the UK that brings together cheese and chilli in a dedicated festival. It is a family-friendly event with food stalls, a cooking theatre, kids' activities, tastings, live music and more. Find the full line-up here.

How do I book tickets?

You can get tickets online or on the door, but we recommend you book early for the best prices and to avoid disappointment. Early Bird Tickets are valid up until 8pm on the Wednesday prior to the event weekend. After this point, standard rates will take effect. Even better, children aged 0-15 go free!

How do I get there?

By car: we recommend using Winchester’s Park & Ride facilities for stress-free parking. There are four sites around the city, served by frequent buses. There are no Park & Ride services on Sunday, so you can use one of the following car parking facilities:

• Winchester Park & Ride car parks are open daily, though no buses run on Sunday. The closest Park & Ride car park to North Walls is Barfield.
• Several pay & display and multi-storey car parks are within walking distance of the festival site (Tower Street, Chesil Street, Middle Brook Street and Durngate).
• On-street parking is available in many areas in streets like Andover Road, Victoria Road, Upper High Street.
• For those arriving by train (or wishing to park near the station), the Winchester Railway Station car park is available nearby.

By rail: From Winchester station, North Walls Recreation Ground is a short walk via Stockbridge Rd, North Walls and then Park Avenue.

What is there for foodies?

Sample and shop: Festival-goers can indulge in gourmet food stalls featuring dishes that creatively blend cheese and chilli. Picture spicy cheese toasties, chilli cheese fries, artisan cheese stalls and some of the UK’s top chilli growers, makers, and manufacturers.

Tastings: When you arrive at the Taste Tent, you’ll receive a ballot slip to cast your vote in this area. Try the sauces, pick your favourites, and help crown the winner.

Workshops and demos: Chilli Olly and Chilli Dave will be hosting a full programme of  cooking demonstrations and entertainment throughout the day in the Cooking Theatre. They’ll be joined by a fantastic line-up of guest speakers, including local cheese makers and chilli producers, all sharing their passion, stories, and expert tips.

Chilli eating competition: Every day at 4pm contestants take on the fiery challenge, battling through increasingly hot chillies. The last person standing wins! If you’re bold enough to give it a go, get in touch here to find out how to sign up.

Bars: There are multiple bars located around the site, with its own unique selection of drinks brought to you by Hall & Woodhouse Brewery.

What is there for entertainment?

Live music stage: There's a fantastic selection of bands performing across the weekend to keep the atmosphere buzzing. From smooth jazz to lively rock anthems, check out the full schedule here.

Choir singing: Achoiring Voices return to Winchester Cheese & Chilli Festival this year, performing toe-tapping  songs by Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder and more.

What is there for kids?

Street entertainment: Thingamabob, an eccentric street show by Matt Pang, blends circus skills, comedy, and contraptions. You can also expect a walkaround magic and balloon modelling, giant festival mascots, Punch & Judy and bubble parties!

Storytelling: Gather round and enjoy a magical storytelling session in the story tent. Blending original tales with well-loved classics, Mark Fraser has a special way of captivating audiences of all ages.

Fun and games: Take on the free Cheese & Chilli crazy gold course for free, set sail on a family adventure with an exciting pirate-themed puzzle trail, and have a whirl on the mini funfair rides around the site.

Are the vendors local?

Many vendors are local farmers, cheese makers, and chilli growers who take pride in their craft. Your support helps them thrive and continue to bring their delicious creations to the public. By attending the Winchester Cheese and Chilli Festival, you’re not only indulging in great food but also contributing to the growth of small businesses in the community.

Is the festival sustainable?

The Winchester Cheese and Chilli Festival places a strong emphasis on sustainability. Many participating vendors prioritise eco-friendly practices, from sourcing ingredients locally to using biodegradable packaging. The festival also encourages attendees to reduce waste by offering recycling facilities and promoting reusable containers.