A POPULAR culinary celebration is set to return to an historic silk mill.

Whitchurch Silk Mill has announced it is bringing back its much-loved Food Festival for 2022.

After a hugely successful inaugural event last year, the gathering is again set in the grounds of the industrial heritage site on the banks of the River Test.

On Saturday, September 10, revellers will be able attend for free as part of a packed schedule of events for the Heritage Open Days - England's largest celebration of history and culture.

Organisers say they are determined to "spoil" visitors with a selection of delicious delights and tasty treats from local culinary suppliers.

The first event, which organisers hoped would become a permanent fixture, proved so popular it has been brought back for another year.

A selection of food and drink stalls, weaving demonstrations, children’s craft activities, face painting from Ashley Archer (11am to 3 pm), cooking demonstrations, and children’s workshops from The Natural Cook Company will be on offer as part of the celebrations.

It will also showcase a wide range of stalls packed full of food and drink from local suppliers, including The Homemade Brownie Company, Hot Oven, Thai bites, Crepe Britain, 3parts, Hornet chilli sauces and many more.

Jess Bone, operations manager at Whitchurch Silk Mill, said: “We want to create an exciting day out that gives visitors of all ages a mini-festival vibe. A lot of hard work has gone into ensuring a delightful and safe experience that combines culinary and industrial heritage exploration.

"We’d love to see as many people as possible sourcing their food locally and we hope this will allow them to meet new makers, bakers and suppliers.”

The Silk Mill Food Festival takes place on Sunday, September 10, from 10.30am to 4pm. Admission is free and includes entrance to the Mill.