ALRESFORD WATERCRESS FESTIVAL

Nationally acclaimed Annual festival attracting thousands of visitors to New Alresford in Hampshire to celebrate all things watercress. 

Every year on the third Sunday in May the streets of this Georgian town are closed to traffic to transform the town into a family-friendly FREE festival.  (*parking charges apply).  The festival opens with a cavalcade at 10:00 but traders may open at 09:30. 

From street markets, food & drink stalls, cookery demonstrations with renown world class chefs, the Hampshire Farmers Market, a  "Kids Zone" featuring Circus Skills, there really is something for everyone. For many the highlight of the day is Watercress Eating Championship which takes place at 15:00 on the main stage - a must see event hosted by our very own redoubtable Paul Rees keeping the participants in order and the crowd in stitches.

The festival opens at 10:00 and closes at 16:00, with the streets of New Alresford being returned to normal within a few hours.

Alresford Watercress Festival is a not-for-profit enterprise raising money for many local groups and charities. All profits from the festival are donated straight back to the local community. 

CLICK HERE TO SEE THE VIDEO FROM THE 2024 FESTIVAL