Guildford

18th & 19th July

Saturday / 10am - 6pm
Sunday / 10am - 5pm

We’re buzzing with excitement to announce that the Cheese and Chilli Festival is returning to Guildford in 2026 at the beautiful Shalford Park! 🌶🧀
After an incredible weekend in 2025, we can’t wait to be back with even more flavour, fun, and family entertainment — it’s going to be one to remember!

Thank You to our 2025 Sponsors

If you’d like more information on partnering us at this fantastic event in 2026 please contact Pulford Publicity Ltd.

Pulford Publicity Ltd would love to chat with you about all of the sponsorship and programme advertising packages we offer. Get in touch with us on 01202 941466 or via email HERE to find out more about our prices.

MAIN ATTRACTIONS

Here are some of the things that happened in 2025, we are currently working on the 2026 schedules!

Cooking Theatre

Chilli Olly & Chilli Dave Presents

We’re excited to have the legendary Chilli Olly and Chilli Dave back in action, alongside a fantastic lineup of guest speakers. Check the schedule so you don’t miss a moment!

Throughout the day, you can enjoy a mix of cooking demos and insightful talks from local cheese and chilli producers, all eager to share their passion and expertise.

And don’t forget—the Cooking Theatre will once again host the crowd-favorite Chilli Challenge! But that’s just the beginning—get ready for a day filled with bold flavors, expert tips, and plenty of delicious surprises!

Wrestling

Wrestling Madness is Back!

Last year was such a hit that we just had to bring the wrestlers back for another round of thrilling action! Get ready to dive into the electrifying world of wrestling as these incredible athletes step into the ring to battle it out in jaw-dropping matches.

Will the Cheese Corner come out on top, or will the Chilli Corner bring the heat? With high-flying moves, powerhouse takedowns, and edge-of-your-seat excitement, every match is packed with non-stop energy. So grab a spot ringside and cheer on your favorites—it’s going to be an action-packed day you won’t want to miss!

Chilli

Get ready to sample and shop an incredible selection of chillies and chilli-inspired goodies! We’re lucky to be supported by some of the UK’s top growers, makers, and manufacturers, bringing you the very best in bold, fiery flavours.

It’s the perfect chance to try something new, spice up your taste buds, and learn more about these amazing products. Come explore and find your new favorite chilli treat!

Chilli Eating Competition

Every day at 4pm, the ultimate test of heat kicks off! Watch as fearless (or maybe slightly crazy) contestants take on the fiery challenge, battling through increasingly hot chillies. It’s always a hilarious spectacle—who knew such tiny fruits could cause so much drama?

The last person standing wins the glory (and probably a lot of milk)! Think you’ve got what it takes? If you’re bold enough to give it a go, get in touch with us HERE to find out how to sign up!

Crazy Golf

Cheese & Chilli Crazy Golf – It’s FREE!

Fancy a bit of fun? Try your skills on our very own Cheese & Chilli Crazy Golf Course! With a Par 27, it’s the perfect challenge for all ages.

We’ve got big and small putters, plus multicolored balls—so no sneaky cheating!  Best of all, it’s completely FREE, so grab a club and take your best shot!

Children’s Entertainment

We’ve got plenty of FREE activities to keep the little ones entertained all day long! Watch their faces light up with Punch & Judy shows, magic tricks, treasure hunts, balloon modelling, giant bubble parties, and even a visit from Kerry the Koala Crazy! Plus, they can enjoy mini golf, stilt walkers, roaming musicians, and exciting storytelling sessions.

For even more fun, there are some extra activities available for a small fee, including mini fun fair rides, axe throwing, face painting, inflatables, and more!

There’s something for everyone—so bring the whole family and let the fun begin!

The Story Teller

Mark Fraser isn’t just a storyteller—he’s a master of imagination! Whether he’s spinning his own tales, bringing timeless classics to life, or interacting with the audience, he has a way of captivating everyone—young and old alike.

With his humor, originality, and boundless creativity, we’ve seen entire families, from kids to grandparents, completely hooked at the same time—and it’s truly something special to witness! Don’t miss the chance to experience his incredible storytelling sessions for yourself!

Bubble Party

Bubble Madness – Let the Fun Begin!

It’s time for the kids to go bubble crazy! Watch them chase, pop, and giggle as giant and tiny bubbles float through the air. And the best part? They even get to make their own bubbles!

It’s completely FREE, so come and join the bubbly fun!

Kerry The Koala

Say hello to our very own festival mascot, Kerry the Koala! Standing at an impressive 3 meters tall and full of air (and friendliness!), she’s always ready to greet festival-goers with a big smile.

And if you’re really lucky, she might even bring along her buddy, Pete the Polar Bear!

Come and say hi—we’d love for you to meet them!

Mini Fun Fair

Steven Hill Amusements will be supplying us with some rides.  Here are some example images of rides they have available but it is not yet confirmed which rides will be present.

The Authentic Punjabee

Bee Gill, founder of The Authentic Punjabee, will be performing in the Cooking Theatre throughout the weekend, bringing the vibrant flavors and traditions of Punjabi cuisine to life. With a passion for authentic home cooking and a modern approach to traditional recipes, Bee will showcase her creative techniques, share expert tips, and inspire visitors to embrace the rich culinary heritage of Punjab. Don’t miss the chance to see her in action as she demonstrates how to make delicious, authentic dishes with ease!

Magic Shows

Get ready to be amazed as magic takes over the festival! This year, we’ve got both walkabout magicians bringing tricks right to you and static magic shows packed with jaw-dropping illusions.

Whether you’re catching a surprise trick on the go or grabbing a seat for a full performance, there’s plenty of magical funfor the whole family! Don’t blink—you won’t want to miss it!

Cheese

Get ready to indulge in an incredible selection of cheeses! We carefully handpick a variety of unique cheeses for each event, ensuring you get to explore a diverse and delicious range—without seeing the same ones at every stall.

It’s all about quality over quantity, so you can enjoy the very best flavors, specially chosen just for you!

Bars

This year, we’re excited to team up with Hall & Woodhouse Brewery to bring you some top-notch beverages! Whether you’re after a refreshing pint or something a little different, we’ve got plenty of bars around the site to keep you hydrated and happy.

Each bar has its own unique menu, so why not explore and find your perfect drink? Cheers!

Chilli Challenge

The Versus Food Challenge – Can You Handle the Heat?

Get ready for 30 minutes of pure foodie madness as contestants battle to devour a super-hot meal, specially prepared by our legendary chefs, Chilli Olly and Chilli Dave! The first to clear their plate takes the crown—but trust us, it’s not as easy as it sounds!

Think you’ve got what it takes? If you’re brave (or just a little bit crazy) and want to give it a go, contact us HERE to find out more!

Live Music

No festival is complete without some great tunes! To keep the vibe alive, we’ve got an amazing lineup of bands playing throughout the weekend. From smooth jazz to rocking anthems, talented musicians from across the region will be bringing the stage to life.

Check out the Entertainment Schedule or hit the Live Music button below for all the details. Get ready to dance, sing along, and soak up the festival atmosphere!

Punch & Judy

This year, we’re bringing you twice the laughs with two Punch & Judy shows every day at the festival! Get ready for all the classic fun, cheeky antics, and slapstick humor that make this traditional puppet show a family favorite.

Don’t miss out—check the schedule and grab a front-row spot for some good old-fashioned entertainment!

Taste Tent

Sauce Tasting & Your Vote Counts!

Every event features a handpicked selection of delicious sauces from our amazing traders across the site—and we want YOU to help crown the best!

When you arrive at the Taste Tent, you’ll receive a ballot slip to cast your vote in this area. Try the sauces, pick your favorites, and have your say! The winners earn a coveted award, so your vote really makes a difference!

Get ready to taste, judge, and celebrate the best flavors around!

Check out the full Entertainment Line Up :

Venue Address & location

Shalford Park,
Shalford Rd,
Guildford
GU4 8BL

Information

Dogs are Welcome

Dogs are very welcome at the show, all we asks is that they are kept on leads and you pick up any waste

Free Parking

There will be FREE parking at the event ground but please note that we can only park a certain amount of cars here. Parking is NOT guaranteed. Unfortunately, an entry ticket does not include a parking spot at the event site. To date we’ve not had to close the car park due to it being full but we have been close on a  number of occasions.  If this happens, you can find alternative parking using the links provided. Other car parks in the area can be found HERE.

Bus & Train

By Train

The nearest station is Guildford Railway Station. From there, direct services run to Shalford, taking only about 4 minutes. Once at Shalford station, it’s a short walk to the festival grounds at Shalford Park.

By Bus

You can also reach the festival via bus:

  • Pilgrims Way is the closest stop (2 min walk from Shalford Park).
  • Bus routes such as 32, 34, 53, 715, RA2 serve that area.
  • From Guildford town centre / Friary Bus Station, Routes 4 & 5 run frequently and can get you close.
  • There is a direct bus from Guildford (Friary) to Shalford station every ~15 minutes.
  • A Stagecoach service from Millbrook to Shalford takes ~7 minutes; fares are modest (£1–£3).
Discount Vouchers
Don’t forget to collect your discount vouchers on the door along with your programme. The vouchers are worth approximately £20 so you can get the cost of your entry back when you buy your goodies. The vouchers are available to spend whilst at the event and some are available to spend online from selected traders.

Adult Tickets

Very Early Bird ticket

Up to 31st March

£8

Early Bird Tickets

Up to Wednesday Before Event

£10

Standard Adult Ticket

£14

Senior & Concession Tickets

Very Early Bird ticket

Up to 31st March

£6

Early Bird Tickets

Up to Wednesday Before Event

£8

Standard Adult Ticket

£12

Our Carbon Footprint
We are committed to making the Festival more environmentally friendly and we encourage you to do the same. Help us to keep the site tidy and leave no trace. Please bring and use your own water bottles. Try to conserve water on non-essential use. Do not bring glass; no glass bottles are allowed on site. We will also be offering visitors the opportunity to purchase a sustainable reusable cup instead of using single use plastic containers at the bar. We are actively exploring other ways that we can help reduce our carbon footprint. Together we can make a difference.
Top 5 Thins to Consider
1. Recycle, recycle recycle!!

2. Keep tidy. Please don’t leave rubbish or equipment

3. Bring your own water bottle and refill onsite

4. Car share

5. Use public transport or as sustainable as possible transport, particularly if local

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CHRISTCHURCH
16th & 17th May
REIGATE
30th & 31st May
WINCHESTER
6th & 7th June
CHICHESTER
20th & 21st June
GUILDFORD
18th & 19th July

‘Spice Up Your Life’ – Chilli Honey Halloumi Salad

•  A vibrant, fresh, and protein-packed salad featuring grilled halloumi with a sweet and spicy chilli honey glaze, served over salad, roasted peppers, and baby spinach.

‘Melt Down’ – Fiery Cheese & Chilli Nachos

•  A homemade twist on loaded nachos with baked tortilla chips, a light cheese sauce infused with jalapeños, and a chilli-lime pico de gallo.

‘Hot & Healthy’ – Spicy Sweet Potato & Cheddar Frittata

•  A protein-rich baked frittata packed with roasted sweet potato, smoked cheddar, and a fresh red chilli kick.

‘Power Bowl Punch’ – Buffalo Cauliflower & Blue Cheese Wraps

•  Roasted cauliflower tossed in homemade buffalo chilli sauce, served in a wholewheat wrap with a cooling blue cheese yogurt dressing.

Challenger 2026 – Hell’s Grilled Cheese

It’s hot, it’s cheesy, as you take on to finished a lava hot cheese toastie made with a very special customer hot relish!

‘Taco ‘Bout Fire’ – Spicy Prawn & Queso Fresco Tacos

•  Quick and easy tacos filled with chilli-lime grilled prawns, fresh avocado salsa, and a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco.

‘Cheese & Chilli Bakes’ – Harissa Ricotta-Stuffed Peppers

•  Peppers stuffed with a creamy harissa ricotta mix, baked until golden, and finished with a chilli-garlic drizzle.

CHRISTCHURCH
16th & 17th May
REIGATE
30th & 31st May
WINCHESTER
6th & 9th June
CHICHESTER
20th & 21st June
GUILDFORD
18th & 19th July