What is The Big Eat?
If you’re a food lover looking for a weekend filled with delicious eats, live entertainment, and a vibrant festival atmosphere, then The Big Eat Food Festival is the place to be! Taking place at Royal Victoria Country Park, from 23rd–25th May 2026, this spectacular event promises an unforgettable experience for foodies of all tastes.
What to Expect at The Big Eat
- 50 Food Traders – sample everything from gourmet street food and sizzling BBQ to fresh seafood, wood-fired pizzas, and mouth-watering treats. Expect a mix of well-loved local traders and exciting international cuisine.
- 50 Market Stall Traders – Browse a range of stalls selling artisanal products, fresh local produce, handmade crafts, and specialty foods, perfect for taking a piece of the festival home with you.
- 8 Fully-Licensed Bars – Whether you fancy a crisp pint of local ale, a handcrafted cocktail, a glass of fine wine, or a refreshing mocktail, the festival’s bars have something for everyone.
- Live Music & Entertainment – A packed schedule of live performances featuring talented local musicians, bands, and tribute acts, create a buzzing atmosphere throughout the weekend.
- Family-Friendly Activities – Face painting, sweet stalls and circus skills activities, The Big Eat is a great event for all ages.
With so much on offer, there’s truly something for everyone – so if you’re a foodie, a music lover, or just looking for a fantastic day out with friends and family The Big Eat has you covered.
Where to Stay: The Best Campsites Near The Big Eat
Make the most of your festival experience by staying at one of the beautiful campsites in the New Forest. Whether you prefer a traditional tent setup, campervan accommodation, or a more luxurious glamping experience, there’s a site to suit your needs.
Ashurst Campsite
Located just outside the village of Ashurst, Ashurst Campsite is a fantastic choice for those who want convenience without sacrificing the beauty of the New Forest. With excellent facilities including toilets, showers, and a laundrette, it’s a comfortable spot for festival-goers. The campsite also offers easy access to local pubs and shops, making it ideal for grabbing a bite or supplies. Best of all, it’s only a short drive from The Big Eat festival site!
Longbeech Campsite
If you love the idea of sleeping under the stars with plenty of open space, Longbeech Campsite is perfect. Set amongst beautiful woodland with free-roaming ponies, this campsite offers a true back-to-nature experience. It is a more basic, off-grid site with no electric hook-ups or toilet facilities, making it ideal for seasoned campers who love a rustic adventure. It’s a peaceful retreat yet still within easy reach of The Big Eat festival.
Plan Your Visit
With its incredible selection of food, drinks, and entertainment, The Big Eat Food Festival is set to be one of the highlights of The New Forest’s 2025 event calendar.
For more details about The Big Eat, visit thebigeatfestival.co.uk. Find the perfect Camping New Forest location for your stay
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