- LATEST NEWS
- CONTACT/VISIT
- TICKET INFO
26/06/2025
Where to eat, drink, and unwind during your visit to Thaxted Festival.
A visit to Thaxted Festival is more than just a musical experience - it’s a chance to soak up the charm of one of Essex’s most beautiful historic towns. Whether you’re attending a single evening concert or spending a full weekend immersed in music, knowing where to find great food and drink will help you make the most of your time here.
Here’s your guide to tried-and-tested local favourites for every kind of appetite.
The Swan Hotel (opposite Thaxted Church)
A cornerstone of the Thaxted experience, The Swan offers generous meals, a lively pub atmosphere, and even accommodation if you’re staying for a musical weekend. Its central location makes it ideal for pre- or post-concert dining.
The Maypole
This traditional public house offers a warm welcome, hearty pub fare, and real ales. It’s a perfect spot to relax before an early evening recital or to debrief with friends after a stirring choral performance.
Ocean Delight
A firm favourite for classic fish and chips, Ocean Delight is great for a more casual, satisfying bite. Perfect for families or a quick dinner before heading into the church.
India Villa
A beloved spot among locals and visiting musicians alike, India Villa serves up richly flavoured Indian dishes with great hospitality. It’s an excellent option for a vibrant post-concert meal.
The local Dorrington’s bakery and shops on Thaxted High Street provide everything from sausage rolls to sweet treats.
Thaxted’s open spaces and the Conservation Garden near the church make it easy to enjoy an al fresco meal. Many concertgoers bring their own picnics - especially during longer events like our open-air opera. Be sure to stop by one of the town’s shops or food venues earlier in the day to stock up on takeaway options.
Chaters (Saffron Walden)
Just a short drive from Thaxted, Chaters is a popular spot in Saffron Walden for casual, high-quality food in a relaxed atmosphere. Please note, it’s closed on Sundays - so plan accordingly for a Friday or Saturday treat!
The Cricketers (near Saffron Walden)
For those travelling from the north, The Cricketers is an award-winning country pub offering refined yet hearty fare, perfect for a leisurely lunch before your concert experience begins.
Talliston House and Gardens (Great Dunmow)
Combining history, art, and hospitality, Talliston is one of the region’s hidden gems. Known for its astonishing themed rooms and magical atmosphere, it also offers bookable afternoon teas - a sensory delight to complement your cultural weekend. Great Dunmow itself is worth a visit, with a charming high street and relaxed refreshment options.
With so many concerts spread across weekends - and plenty of time between events - it’s easy to plan your days around food as well as music. Whether you're grazing through a series of local favourites or booking a special dinner around your performance schedule, Thaxted makes it simple to combine culture and cuisine.
So, while the music takes centre stage, the food and drink around Thaxted Festival offer their own kind of performance - delicious, satisfying, and best enjoyed in good company.