Port Eliot Festival

What’s it all about?

One of the UK’s most talked about festivals that attracts a phenomenal mix of celebrities, art lovers, book worms and fun loving party goers. Described as a literary festival, but with the feel of a garden party, mixed eclectically with music, a one-minute disco and an alternative flower show!         

What happens?

An incredible array of performers have appeared at Port Eliot over the years – drawn by the festival’s laid-back approach, colourful atmosphere and friendly vibe. Previous festivals have included Jarvis Cocker, Dominic West, surprise visits by Kate Winslet and film programs curated by Martin Scorsese.  The Port Eliot Festival has also developed a reputation for fantastic food, with the likes of Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, Moro, Skye Gyngell, Rose Prince, Daniel de la Falaise, Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen chefs and Angela Hartnett cooking at the festival over the years.

How can you take part?

The four day Port Eliot Festival is a magical combination of books, food, music, art, comedy, fashion, films, flowers, wildlife and water, which defies categorisation. Held in the spectacular grounds of the ancient Port Eliot estate in southeast Cornwall (the oldest continually inhabited dwelling in the UK), the festival provides inspiration and surprises for all ages at every turn. Over the years new areas have been added, broadening the appeal to younger audiences and others who might never have considered coming to a literary festival before – including the immensely popular Cabaret Tent (where you’ll dance late into the night) the Caught by the River stage and the enchanting House of Fairy Tales.

Did you know?

The first year, 2003, the festival had 17 paying punters and three times as many performers, artists and crew. Word quickly spread among young writers that at last here was a festival at which they could do what they wanted. The following year, 1,000 people attended. The rest is, as they say, history.