The best feast nights in Cornwall in 2022
Long tables groaning with delicious food, the sound of popping corks, the soft glow of candlelight, animated chatter and laughter – it can only be a Cornish feast night! Cornwall’s magic really comes into its own with these extraordinary events that make the most of light evenings, sunsets and stunning scenery, from old barns to golden sands to clifftops to atmospheric gardens. Social boundaries are blurred, strangers become friends, a communal meal is shared and memories are made – it’s no surprise that tickets sell out as fast as Glastonbury! Here’s our guide to the best feast nights in Cornwall this year.
Best for veggies: Lost Suppers, Lost Gardens of Heligan feast nights, St Austell
Lost Suppers are about connections: the connection between people, the soil, the planet and food. The folk at Heligan believe it’s never been more important to talk about food miles and eating from the land. These intimate feast nights celebrate the fruits of the Heligan gardeners’ labour in innovative ways. Led by the ingredients that are available in the kitchen garden on the day or what’s in season, the menu is never published beforehand (who doesn’t love a surprise!), and five out of seven courses will always be vegetarian. Meat comes from rare breeds reared on Heligan’s Home Farm. Come under falling darkness and enjoy a welcome drink upon arrival before heading to the Heligan Kitchen Conservatory, where the atmosphere is as enchanting as the food.
Best for romance: Fire and Feast, Bedruthan feast nights, Mawgan Porth
Stunning sunsets, dramatic cliffs, weird rock formations, and locally produced mouth-watering food by a crackling fire. This is eating at Bedruthan: rustic dining in a cosy fireside setting on the cliff tops with a backdrop of rolling Atlantic waves. June’s event focuses on melt-in-the-mouth beef dishes; July’s two nights celebrate seafood, including Cornish lobster, grilled scallops and monkfish scampi; while October is devoted to succulent roasted Cornish chicken. There’s plenty of gorgeous veggie options too, like fennel, Granny Smith apple and dill salad and charred tender broccoli, rose harissa, smoked almonds and feta. There’s local cured meats and cheeses to get stuck into, too. Settle in with a cocktail or glass of wine before you sit down to enjoy a selection of hearty dishes. Then, as the sun begins to set, snuggle up with your loved one in front of the open flames and indulge some gooey toasted marshmallows. Dreamy.
Best for wine lovers: The Vine by Knightor, Knightor Winery feast nights, St Austell
We can’t think of a more heavenly combo than a feast in a winery. Not only do you get that experience of big flavours and togetherness, but your food will be expertly married with exclusive artisanal wines. Set away from the bustling crowds in the private Portscatho vineyard, with panoramic views over the south Cornwall coastline, expect a down-to-earth atmosphere in a laid-back space. Small plates, like cod cheek lollipops, Cornish crab flatbreads and stir-fried chard, are served on long sharing tables. Drink in that relaxed vibe. Knightor also offers wine tours – check our guide here.
Best for families: Hidden Hut Feast Nights, the Roseland Peninsula
Hidden Hut feast nights are now legendary and locals and visitors alike flock to beautiful Porthcurnick Beach to be part of these fun, family picnic-style events. Take your plates, cutlery and wine, and they’ll cook up a storm. You’ll eat outside, whatever the weather – feasts go ahead come rain or shine, so make sure you dress for whatever the elements may throw at you. Every feast is different, and this year the menu includes beef asado, chicken and chips, champagne shells, south Indian thali, 12-hour lamb, summer sardines … the variety is endless. Veggies are catered for and children are very welcome. Great Cornish fun.
Best for a trendy vibe: Nancarrow Farm Feast and Gatherings, Nancarrow Farm, near Truro
Nancarrow is the mother of all feast nights. Its cool but down-to-earth vibe, rustic but sophisticated fare and chic, down-on-the-farm surroundings are sublime. Add in the scent of wood smoke, folk musicians twanging guitars and delicious food and drink and you have a seriously convivial atmosphere. Mingle in the courtyard with your fellow feasters on arrival, take your place at the long rows of tables strewn with flowers and candles, and tuck into aged Nancarrow beef and colourful seasonal veg. In the autumn, stay warm with the woodburner in the oak barn. Time to grill and chill.