Save the date: 6 food and drink events in London this autumn

The Big Smoke is always thriving with activity. As an international hub it welcomes people from all around the globe, their traditions and customs, and of course their cuisine. From Japan through Latin America, this autumn experience the tastes of the world in a city that caters to the needs of everyone: from soul-loving meat eaters to vegans. 

Grillstock 

Bring your summer to the perfect close with Grillstock festival in London. At Chestnuts Field Grillstock you will be able to enjoy the perfect combination of BBQ and live music from a line-up of 25 musicians and DJs. Keep an eye out for the BBQ competition and the hotdog eating contest!

Where Chestnuts Field, Forest Rd, London, E17 4JF

When 5th - 6th September

Web Grillstock Webpage

RHS London Harvest Festival Show 

The RHS Harvest Festival Show celebrates the tastes of the UK's autumnal fruits and vegetables, and tackles the themes of organic food saving and sharing. Some of the country's finest nurseries, growers and independent producers will lug their harvest to the show for you to admire, taste and buy. Those who grow their own produce can partake in the competition to win cups and cash prizes.

Where RHS Lindley Hall, Elverton St, London, SW1P 2PE

When 6th - 7th October  

Web Royal Horticultural Society Webpage: Harvest Festival Show

Vegfest 

This year, Olympia London will host Europe's biggest vegetarian event: Vegfest. Try vegan delicacies at the numerous stalls and enjoy some good comedy on the Performance stage: the line-up promises sets by vegan comedians Andrew O'Neill on the Saturday, and Jake Yapp on the Sunday. Visitors can pick up on new vegetarian and vegan cooking tips at a selection of workshops, talks and cookery demonstrations. This year's novelties include a vegan activist and health summit, as well as a campaign zone with interactive workshops, looking to educate people about the vegan lifestyle.  

Where Olympia London, Hammersmith Rd, London, W14 8UX 

When 10th - 11th October 

Web Vegfest Webpage

The Rumfest 

Warning: this event is not for the faint of... liver. The RumFest returns to London for the 9th year, showcasing over 400 blends from around the world of the best brands on the market. You will be able to take part in tastings, masterclasses, seminars, and cocktail-making sessions. A VIP package is also available, allowing for early entry to the event, and a traditional Carribean lunch. Take part in the rare rums charity auction and delight yourself in the music of live bands and dancers. Finally, purchase 'Golden Tot Tokens' on the day for exclusive tastings of high-priced rums.  

Where ILEC Conference Centre, Ibis Hotel, 47 Lillie Rd, London, SW6 1UD 

When 17th - 18th October

Web Rumfest Webpage

RHS Secret Garden 

In celebration of gardening, plants and independent farming, the RHS is hosting yet another Secret Garden Sunday. You will be able to witness a large variety of plants and seeds from some of the finest nurseries, take gardening advice from RHS experts, taste local and seasonal foods from the best artisan producers, and attend an interesting programme of talks, workshops, and cooking demonstrations.  

Where RHS Lindley Hall, Elverton St, SW1P 2PE

When 1st November

Web Royal Hotricultural Society Webpage: Secret Garden

Hyper Japan Christmas Market 

If you're searching for original gifts for Christmas this year - look no farther! Hyper Japan Christmas Market celebrates the best of Japanese culture and cuisine. Take a stroll through the stalls stacked with edible goodies, exotic teas and chocolates, japanese snacks and Sake, along other (non-edible) traditional Japanese goods. Entertainment promises nail art, martial-arts exhibitions and live J-pop music, food and drink demonstrations and traditional Japanese Taiko drumming. 

Where Tobacco Dock, 50 Porters Walk, London, E1W 2SF

When 27th - 29th November

Web Hyper Japan Webpage