As the crisp autumn days transition into the colder months of winter, November in the UK is still bursting with life and flavor. This time of year is perfect for campervan or caravan enthusiasts who love to combine their passion for travel with the delight of seasonal foods and local harvest festivals. Many regions across the UK host special markets and festivals that celebrate the autumn harvest, offering unique foodie adventures in picturesque settings. Whether you’re a cider lover, a fan of fresh local produce, or someone who enjoys experiencing a sense of community spirit, there’s a harvest festival to match your travel plans.
Here are some exciting UK-based harvest festivals and autumn markets happening from November 2024 onwards, where you can park up your campervan, indulge in seasonal treats, and explore the best of British food culture.
1. Abergavenny Winter Food Festival – Abergavenny, Wales
Dates: November 9–10, 2024
Nestled in the Welsh countryside, the town of Abergavenny is renowned for its annual food festivals, which continue to draw food lovers from across the UK. The Abergavenny Winter Food Festival is a more intimate version of the town’s larger September festival, but it’s no less exciting. It celebrates the best of seasonal, local Welsh produce, from cheeses to charcuterie, artisanal bread, and preserves.
The winter festival in November will showcase warming street foods, festive drinks, and demonstrations from some of Wales’ top chefs. You can also enjoy cider tastings and purchase local ales, making it a perfect stop for foodie campervanners who love sampling regional delicacies.
Parking Tip: Abergavenny is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, including the Brecon Beacons National Park, making it ideal for camping. Several campsites cater to campervans within a short drive of the town, including Pyscodlyn Farm Caravan and Camping Site.
2. Truro Winter Farmers Market – Truro, Cornwall
Dates: November 15–17, 2024
Cornwall’s food scene is celebrated across the UK, and the Truro Winter Farmers Market is the perfect destination for those eager to explore the region’s bountiful harvests. Located in the heart of the historic town of Truro, this market transforms the city into a vibrant food hub.
Expect stalls brimming with Cornish specialties, such as pasties, Cornish cheese, fudge, and seafood. With local bakers, butchers, and farmers offering their wares, you’ll be spoiled for choice. The market also features cooking demonstrations, live music, and family-friendly activities, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Parking Tip: While Truro has central car parks for shorter visits, nearby campsites like Carnon Downs Caravan Park provide a peaceful retreat for those traveling in a campervan, allowing you to fully relax and extend your stay.
3. Ludlow Medieval Christmas Fayre – Ludlow, Shropshire
Dates: November 23–24, 2024
Set against the backdrop of Ludlow Castle, the Ludlow Medieval Christmas Fayre is an event unlike any other. This two-day festival is a step back in time, with medieval entertainment, traditional crafts, and an array of food and drink stalls. Ludlow is often called a foodie’s paradise, and this festival certainly lives up to that reputation.
Sample hearty stews, hot spiced cider, and traditional sweets while wandering the castle grounds. Artisan producers offer everything from local meats to baked goods and craft beers, all sourced from the surrounding Shropshire countryside. It’s a fantastic way to combine history, food, and fun for the whole family.
Parking Tip: Ludlow has dedicated campervan parking at Ludlow Touring Park, which is a short distance from the town center and offers full facilities. Enjoy the festival, then retreat to the peaceful park to unwind after a day of feasting.
4. Bath Christmas Market – Bath, Somerset
Dates: November 28 – December 15, 2024
The Bath Christmas Market is one of the most famous festive events in the UK, and while it’s not strictly a harvest festival, it showcases plenty of seasonal foods that celebrate the bounty of local producers. The market spans several weeks in late November and December, transforming the historic streets of Bath into a winter wonderland.
You’ll find stalls selling handmade cheeses, Christmas puddings, local wines, and mulled cider. There are also plenty of hot food vendors offering gourmet pies, sausages, and more to keep you warm while you browse. The market is also renowned for its atmosphere, with twinkling lights, carolers, and festive decorations making it a must-visit for those traveling in the UK during the holiday season.
Parking Tip: For campervanners, Bath Marina and Caravan Park is an ideal spot. Situated along the River Avon, it’s a short drive or bus ride into the city, offering a tranquil location to return to after a busy day at the market.
5. Stroud Goodwill Evening – Stroud, Gloucestershire
Date: November 29, 2024
Stroud is known for its vibrant food scene, and the Stroud Goodwill Evening is a festive market event that perfectly captures the essence of this charming town. Held in the evening to kick off the holiday season, the Goodwill Evening features market stalls showcasing everything from organic vegetables to artisan cheeses, pies, and cakes.
Visitors can sample street food, warm up with a hot chocolate or mulled wine, and listen to local musicians playing festive tunes. The town is also home to a weekly farmers’ market that runs on Saturdays, offering yet more opportunities to stock up on fresh, local produce during your visit.
Parking Tip: Stroud has several campsites nearby that welcome campervans, including Tudor Caravan Park, which is just a short drive from the town and offers easy access to both the festival and the surrounding Cotswolds.
Final Word
November 2024 offers plenty of opportunities for campervan and caravan travellers to experience the best of UK food culture. From traditional harvest festivals to festive markets, each event showcases the diverse flavors and regional specialties that make the UK such an exciting place to explore by road. With your campervan as your mobile base, you can take your time savoring the local produce, indulging in cider tastings, and discovering new foodie favorites along the way.
So, pack up your campervan, hit the road, and immerse yourself in the flavors of the season at one of these incredible UK harvest festivals and markets.
Vintage RV Adventures 