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A Perfect Spring Feast on the Kentish Seafront
From Friday 18th to Sunday 20th April 2025, Broadstairs became the ultimate destination for food lovers, hosting one of Kent’s top food and drink festivals just as spring reached full bloom. Set against the stunning clifftops of Victoria Gardens, overlooking the golden sands of Viking Bay and Louisa Bay, the Broadstairs Spring Food Festival served up a weekend of culinary delights, local talent, and a relaxed coastal atmosphere that made it one of the season’s must-do events.
What Made the Festival Special?
This wasn’t just any food market. The Broadstairs Food Festival blended local flavour, community spirit, and family-friendly activities, offering something for everyone whether you’re a passionate foodie, curious traveller, or weekend wanderer.
A Showcase of Kent’s Best Producers
Over 100 stalls lined the gardens, with makers and growers from across Kent and beyond selling everything from homemade chutneys and locally reared meats to artisan Kentish gin. Sustainability was front and centre, with a bit for plastic-free packaging and reusable options.
Live Cooking & Tastings
The demonstration kitchen drew big crowds throughout the weekend.From plant-based dishes to indulgent desserts, these live sessions gave visitors a real taste of the passion that goes into great food.
Family Activities
Younger guests weren’t left out. Hands-on craft areas, face painting, and food-themed games kept the whole family smiling. The welcoming relaxed layout of the festival made it easy to enjoy as a group.
My Favourite Finds
After some very thorough ‘research’ across the food stalls, here are a few of my standout bites:
Cakes & Pastries – The sticky toffee sponge was a festival favourite for a reason.
Locally Baked Sourdough – Crisp crust, fluffy centre – it paired beautifully with…
Artisan Cheeses – Rich Kentish brie, aged cheddar, and even a rosemary-infused goats’ cheese!
Thai Noodles – A warming bowl bursting with flavour.
Loaded Burritos – Smoky meat, tangy salsa, and creamy guacamole wrapped in a soft tortilla.
Sri Lankan Curry – Served with kottu roti and bursting with spices.
Polish Sausages – Grilled to perfection and served with zingy mustard.
Homemade Fudge – My pick? The sea salt caramel – chewy, creamy, and dangerously moreish.
Nut & Salad Bar – Crunchy, fresh, and the perfect palate cleanser.
More Than Just Food
There was plenty to discover beyond the snacks. Beautifully made crafts and gifts were on offer, from handmade soaps and eco-friendly candles to unique jewellery, scarves, hats, and ceramic mugs that felt like one-of-a-kind keepsakes. Even dogs got pampered with gourmet treats from the pet-friendly stalls. A few charities had stood too, raising awareness for local causes and adding to the festival’s friendly, community vibe.
Explore Broadstairs While You’re There
A visit to Broadstairs is about more than just what’s on your plate. Between food sessions, I wandered the cobbled lanes of the Old Town, took in the coastal views from Louisa Bay, and stopped for a quick sit-down on Stone Bay’s peaceful sands.
Other nearby spots include:
- Bleak House – The former holiday home of Charles Dickens.
- Botany Bay – A scenic beach with chalk cliffs, perfect for a post-lunch walk.
- Local cafes and ice cream shops – Many of which source their ingredients directly from festival vendors.
Conclusion
The Broadstairs Food Festival of April 2025 captured everything that makes this town so special; warm hospitality, outstanding local produce, and the unbeatable charm of a coastal setting. Whether you came for the food, the crafts, or the family day out, the whole weekend felt like a joyful welcome to time, don’t worry it’ll be back next year, better than ever. And trust me: it’s worth the trip.
Sandgeek 