The team behind the Rye Harvest Wine and Food Fair have announced plans for the Winchelsea Gastronomic Promenade on 25 July.
The brand new food, drink and walking experience will take guests 6.75 miles through the streets of Winchelsea and out into the surrounding countryside, including pastures, woodland paths, the banks of the Royal Military Canal, and quiet country lanes. Along the way, participants will discover hidden gardens, historic inns, far-reaching views towards the Channel, and live music at every stop.
It’s inspired by the Ludlow Magnalonga which began 20 years ago and sees participants walk around the Shropshire town enjoying food and wine as they go.
Jane Brook, Rye Harvest Wine and Food Fair’s festival director, said, “By guiding guests along a trail of locations rather than gathering everyone in a single site, the promenade offers a richer, more immersive way to experience the landscape, hospitality and local flavour of the area. Each stop will see a food course paired with a local wine or brew, creating a fun, delicious day out that brings together walking, eating, drinking, music and discovery.”
One of the highlights is a dessert inspired by the Feast of St James, created by hospitality veteran Natasha Robinson from Winchelsea, and daughter of 3-star Michelin chef, Nico Ladenis.
The experience will culminate at Charles Palmer Vineyards at Wickham Manor. Chantal Palmer said, “We are delighted to be part of the first Winchelsea Gastronomic Promenade. The route brings together so much of what makes this area special – landscape, history, local food, English wine and hospitality.”
The organisers say the event reflects a wider ambition to create food and drink experiences that are more connected to place, more sustainable in format, and more rewarding for local venues and producers.
Tickets are £75. The event starts at 10am at Winchelsea New Hall. Transport back to Rye from the vineyard will be provided by the Rye and District Community Bus, the event’s charity partner.
https://www.wineandfoodfair.events/gastroprom
Image Credits: Carolyn Gould , Rye Harvest Fair .