Published on 17th September, 2026
Today marks the start of the British Food Fortnight, a celebration of the very best, locally produced food and drink. To mark the occasion, the team here at the Bath & West have put together a list of local favourites that we feel everybody needs to try.
First on the list is Barbers Cheese, recommended by Izzy. The Barber family have been making Cheddar for longer than anybody else in the world, so they certainly know what they are doing. Their Coastal Rugged Mature Cheddar is one that was particularly popular at this year’s Royal Bath & West Show, and it isn’t hard to see why.
From their vineyard in Shepton Mallet, Wraxall produce award-winning wines. Their Bacchus 2025 Wine is one of Rosie’s favourites, with hints of green apple, nettle and a dash of lime. If you’re looking for a flavourful, local drop, look no further.
There are several great butchers in the region, and so to name them all would be impossible. However, two standouts from the team were F Griffiths and Sons (based in Wells) and Frome’s J Cayford Family Butchers. Both have strong reputations for their craftsmanship, quality produce and excellent customer service.
The accounts team are fond of Thorner’s products, but especially their Mature Cheese and Onion Quiche. Thorner’s Farm Shop is just stones throw away from our Showground, but their quiches can be found across major retailers in the country.
It’s an obvious choice, but what list would this be without a mention of Thatchers? From Myrtle Farm in Sandford, they have gone on to become one of the biggest names in the cider industry. Oli particularly recommends ‘Rascal’, for those who prefer a slightly sweeter cider.
Staying in North Somerset, Emily recommends Clevedon Distillery’s Pier Gin. They’ve become popular for their foraged focus and community-led approach, as well as their intimate cocktail lounge and Wine Bar.
Nicole’s top choice is Somerset Spirit Co., who also offer a wide range of spirits, all made using locally and ethically sourced ingredients. Key to their spirits is milk, which is supplied by Wyke (more on them shortly). From whisky to rum, they offer a variety of flavours with something to suit every taste.
Wyke Cheese are rarely quiet when they come to our Shows – and it isn’t hard to see why. Their claim that their cheese is the ‘taste of the countryside’ is hard to argue with. Their Extra Mature Cheddar delivers a rich, well-rounded flavour that is popular with the cheese lovers on our team!
These are just a handful of the fantastic food and drink producers and products that you can find in the South West. There certainly is not a shortage of great options, and we are proud to showcase these at our events.
The Food & Drink Festival returns to the Bath & West Showground on the 3rd April 2027 – you might even spot some of our recommendations there!