Legendary chef Marco Pierre White to headline Bolton Food and Drink Festival’s 20th anniversary

“Cooking is a philosophy, not a recipe,” Marco Pierre White once said. It’s a philosophy that’s fuelled his extraordinary rise from a teenage trainee in a London kitchen to one of the most celebrated chefs in British history.

Now, the man known as the godfather of modern cooking is bringing that philosophy, and plenty of flavour, to Bolton Food and Drink Festival, headlining the UK’s biggest free food event as it marks its 20th anniversary this August.

Marco Pierre White headlines the Bolton Food and Drink Festival

It promises to be a rare and unmissable event.

Taking centre stage on Saturday, the 23rd of August, the famously no-nonsense chef will host two live cookery demonstrations at 11 am and 1 pm, followed by a Q&A session and Ploughman’s lunch at 3 pm.

For the many fans who’ve admired him from afar, this is a golden opportunity to see the man behind the legend in action, sharing his stories, skills, and culinary philosophy live on stage.

“Food has always been about more than just ingredients – it’s about people, passion and bringing communities together,” said Marco.

“It’s a real privilege to be part of this year’s Bolton Food and Drink Festival, especially as it celebrates its 20th anniversary.

“Moments like these remind us why we fell in love with food in the first place.”

Who is Marco Pierre White?

From a working-class Leeds upbringing to Michelin-starred superstardom, Marco’s story is as compelling as his cuisine.

At just 16, he arrived in London with nothing but a box of books and a dream, eventually training under the Roux brothers at the famed Le Gavroche.

By 24, he was head chef and co-owner of Harveys, and by 33, he’d become the youngest chef ever to be awarded three Michelin stars, a feat that shook the fine-dining world to its core.

Four years later, he realised he wasn’t fully satisfied with his work and announced his retirement, returning the Michelin stars.

With a career that’s shaped the UK restaurant scene for over 25 years, Marco’s influence is legendary. He famously helped launch the careers of Gordon Ramsay and Heston Blumenthal, among others. (He’s also the only man known to have made Ramsay cry.)

Bolton Food and Drink Festival

Now, the chef who’s inspired a generation is heading north for his first ever appearance at the Bolton Food and Drink Festival, the UK’s biggest free event of its kind, recently crowned Most Loved Live Event at the I Love Manchester Awards 2023.

Running from Friday 22nd to Monday the 25th of August, this year’s festival promises to be the biggest and boldest yet, transforming Bolton’s town centre into a four-day celebration of food, drink, and family-friendly entertainment.

Expect street food from around the world, artisan market stalls, pop-up bars, kids’ zones, and live music – all wrapped up in a warm welcome that’s pure Northern charm.

“We’re thrilled to be welcoming Marco Pierre White to Bolton for the very first time,” said Cllr Nadeem Ayub, Bolton Council’s Executive Cabinet Member for Culture.

“His appearance marks a major moment in the 20-year history of our festival and will no doubt be one of this summer’s hottest tickets.”

And if that wasn’t enough, festival favourite James Martin is also returning for his 15th year – serving up his sell-out cookery demos on Monday the 25th of August at 11am, 1pm, and 3pm. With both chefs on the bill, Bolton’s foodie faithful are in for a truly unforgettable weekend.

Tickets for Marco and James’s demos are on sale now, with premium and standard seating available.

All sessions will be BSL interpreted, and early booking is advised to avoid disappointment.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook, a street food lover, or just want to soak up the summer atmosphere, Bolton Food and Drink Festival 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most mouthwatering events of the year.

Tickets for Bolton Food and Drink Festival

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