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If you’re searching for fun things to do with family and friends this summer, then look no further then the Cheese and Chilli Festival. Held at various locations across our network, here, you can indulge in cheesy and fiery flavours while enjoying an array of family-friendly activities including eating competitions, crazy golf and much more.
Our Cheese and Chilli Festival guide details everything you need to know for a fun-filled day out.
Where is the Cheese and Chilli Festival?
The Cheese and Chilli Festival takes place at multiple locations across our network, on various dates throughout the summer.
Christchurch
Date: 18 – 19 May.
Address: Parley Lane, Christchurch, BH23 6AD.
Winchester
Date: 1 – 2 June.
Address: North Walls Recreation Ground (River Park), Winchester, SO23 8DJ.
Guildford
Date: 20th – 21st July
Address: Shalford Park, Shalford Rd, Guildford GU4 8BL.
How to get to the Cheese and Chilli Festival
Since the festival is likely to draw a crowd, taking the train is an easier and less stressful way of getting there. Our direct services from London Waterloo can get you to Winchester, Christchurch and Guilford in no time. Plan your journey with us.
We offer various ticket types to help you make sure you grab the right fare for your trip. If you want to save money on your train tickets, travel off-peak and remember to check if you’re eligible for railcards and discounts. Travelling with family or friends? GroupSave lets you pay less per head and is a fantastic way to save money.
Things to see and do at the Cheese and Chilli Festival
There’s lots to do at the Cheese and Chilli Festival – delight your taste buds while you enjoy an array of activities and entertainment.
Food and drink
Indulge in a delectable journey through an array of cheese and chilli delights. There are heaps of stalls where you can sample and buy local and regional chillies and cheeses, and a taste tent where you can judge sauces from various traders.
You can also visit its beer festival while you’re there, which offers ales, wines, spirits, and lagers, as well as an inflatable pub and an authentic cider bar.
Activities and entertainment
There’s lots of entertainment at the festival including its wrestling madness event, where you’ll see skilled athletes take to the ring to battle it out, live music performances, cheese and chilli eating competitions, and cooking demonstrations.
Children’s activities include magic shows, bubble parties, and crazy golf. Don’t miss out on meeting the festival’s mascot, Kerry the Koala, and much more, including a mini fun-fair!
Things to do near the Cheese and Chilli Festival
There are lots of places to visit near the festivals. Our destination guides will help you plan the perfect day trip or getaway. From historic sights, coastal activities, peaceful walks and more, there’s plenty to do in Christchurch, Winchester and Guildford.
Make sure to browse SWR Rewards for money-saving deals on activities, food and drink, and more to enjoy while you’re in town.
Where to stay in Christchurch, Winchester and Guilford
No matter your budget or group size, there are plenty of places you can stay near Christchurch, Winchester, and Guilford.
Christchurch
Check out Harbour Hotel & Spa, or Captain’s Club Hotel & SPA if you’re after a luxury spot. Travelodge Christchurch Hotel or Premier Inn Christchurch are more affordable hotels. If you’d rather an independent hotel on a budget, try the Bear of Burton Hotel.
Guildford
Try the Guildford Harbour Hotel for luxury – there’s a chic spa and award-winning seafood restaurant. Premier Inn Guildford North and Travelodge Guildford offer more affordable options.
Winchester
The newly-constructed Premier Inn is a good shout if you’re on a budget, and it’s fairly close to town. For a high-end experience take a look at beautifully refurbished 17th century Lainston House.
Cheese and Chilli Festival accessibility
The event is wheelchair accessible. The organisers have adapted toilets and benches for those in wheelchairs, and there are discounted rates for its concessionary customers.
