You may think that it was the passions of Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall and his River Cottage that put the Dorset town of Bridport on the food-map. But any serious foodie knows that this remarkable town was producing some of the finest regional food in the country, long before HFW cracked a free-range organic egg.

Bridport Food Festival, an annual fete-style event that takes place this year on June 27, 28 and 29, is a showcase for West Dorset producers dedicated to keeping food at the heart of the community. It’s also a chance for anyone interested in real food to get up close and personal with some of the finest produce in the region.

From biodynamic meat and organic vegetables to the hottest chilli in the world and Dorset-grown blueberries, the Bridport Food Festival is packed with surprising and delicious produce to taste and buy.

It’s also a chance to learn and swap ideas, with demonstrations from some of the area’s leading food practitioners including local Indian, Thai, Japanese and Chinese chefs, all using local produce.

Set in Asker Meadows on the outskirts of Bridport, there’s also plenty to make the festival a family day out, with a coconut shy, bouncy castle, beer tent and live music throughout the weekend.

To reap the full benefits of the Festival, out-of-towners can get £100 off at Hyde Cottage in Walditch with Dorset Costal Cottages. Number three offers three bedrooms, furnishings to a high standard and a pretty country kitchen where you can practice your culinary skills learned from the cookery demos. With the discount, the cottage costs just £455 for a week during the Festival. Further information: Dorset Coastal Cottages or 0800 980 4070