It’s the Guernsey International Food Festival this September – and Red Carnation Hotels want you to visit!

Food festivals are all the rage these days, but, until now, one part of the British Isles that has escaped the trend is the Channel Island of Guernsey. No longer, however!

It’s surprising that Guernsey has resisted this long, as with its diverse cuisine, abundance of quality produce and fabulous seafood, the Bailiwick is truly a hidden gem in the world of gastronomy. Now, to celebrate this culinary prowess, Guernsey will be hosting it’s first International Food Festival (@GuernseyFood on Twitter) from 18 to 27 September.

There are plenty of events for all to enjoy, from cooking demos and wine tastings in downtown St Peter Port (which we like the sound of), to children’s activities and special offerings from eateries across the island. One of the highlights, across the final weekend, will be the presence of award-winning French chef and restaurateur Jean-Christophe Novelli, who’ll be wowing the crowds with his demonstrations down on the seafront.

If you’re looking to make a longer stay out of it – and let’s face it, you hardly need an excuse to linger in beautiful Guernsey – then two lovely hotels in the Red Carnation Hotel Collection may appeal. You can celebrate the event with a luxurious stay at the four-star Duke of Richmond Hotel, or really push the boat out with a stay at the Old Government House Hotel & Spa, the only five-star hotel on the island. At the Old Government House, you can even choose a special Guernsey International Food Festival package, including luxury extras like a champagne afternoon tea.

We’ll drink to that!