In pictures – Ramsbottom Chocolate and Cheese Festival 2026

Despite the wet weather, queues formed outside the hall and around the grounds as visitors came to sample sweet and savoury treats from traders across the region.

The annual event, which ran from 11am to 4pm, once again brought together cheesemakers, chocolatiers, and other local producers for a day celebrating Britain’s favourite flavours.

It was held in the church gardens as well as Ramsbottom Civic Hall.

Inside, the hall was busy with people milling around rows of stalls, browsing and chatting with sellers. Live music provided the backdrop, while younger visitors were kept entertained with face painting, crafts, and a roaming magician making their way through the crowds.

Emma, from Emma’s Homemade Cookies, based in Ramsbottom, said the turnout had been “incredible”. Visitors queued down the road to get in, with her rainbow sprinkle cookies proving a hit with children and classic chocolate cookies remaining a firm favourite.

Emma from Emma’s Homemade Cookies (Image: Danny Crompton)

“The way people have come out to support it is brilliant,” she said. “This is a hobby for me, but it’s nice that friends and family will come by. You see people that you know, and you get to chat to the other stallholders, we build a bit of a community. It’s just a really nice day, and one of the reasons I like living in Ramsbottom. It’s good for the whole town.”

Peter, from Jeni’s Brownies in Lancaster, said it was their first time trading at the festival. The salted caramel brownie had been their best seller.

“It’s been a really good day, very busy despite the weather,” he said. “We do events all over but this is our first time here. Everybody’s come out and it’s been really good – especially nice that it’s inside!”

Ramsbottom Chocolate and Cheese Festival (Image: Danny Crompton)

Also based in Ramsbottom, Zareena from The Samosa Hut said her biriyani had proved the most popular item. “It’s been very good, very busy,” she said. “There’s a great community feel.”

An event spokesperson previously said the festival aims to bring visitors into the town for a relaxed day out while supporting independent traders and local businesses.

First held in 2009 as a chocolate‑only celebration, it has since evolved into one of Ramsbottom’s best‑loved community events, drawing people from across Greater Manchester and beyond.