Award-winning celebrity chef, TV presenter, author, and food campaigner Rachel Green will be headlining this year’s Ginger & Spice Festival

Leading an impressive roster of culinary talent, Rachel will take center stage at the James Du Pavey Festival Food Theatre, bringing her trademark warmth, exuberance, and passion for honest British cooking to Market Drayton.

A True Champion of British Produce & Global Flavours

Hailing from 14 generations of Lincolnshire farmers, Rachel lives, breathes, and eats local produce. Her deep-rooted commitment to the British food industry has earned her widespread acclaim and prestigious accolades, including:

  • 🏆 Champion of Champions at the 2025 Eat Game Awards

  • 🏆 CLA Award for Outstanding Contribution and Achievement for British Food

  • 🏆 Yorkshire & Humber Celebrity Chef of the Year

While deeply devoted to the ethics and provenance of local, seasonal food, Rachel’s cookery brings together diverse food cultures from across the globe, elevated by vibrant herbs and spices. In particular, ginger is a constant signature in her kitchen – celebrated for how it imparts warmth, balance, and creates a delicious bridge between world cuisines.

From BBC Screens to the Festival Stage

If Rachel’s face and recipes feel familiar, you’ve likely seen her sharing her passion on national television:

  • BBC’s Rick Stein’s Food Stories: Rachel recently featured in the 3rd episode of this popular documentary series, which routinely draws over 2.6 million viewers per episode.

  • BBC One’s Countryfile: Appearing alongside John Craven on the hit Sunday evening show, Rachel’s showcase generated a flood of viewer requests for her coveted traditional Lincolnshire Plum Bread recipe.

Chef, Rachel Green, commented:

“I’m delighted to be part of the Ginger & Spice Festival’s 10th anniversary celebrations. I’m looking forward to sharing delicious ideas, seasonal inspiration and practical tips that visitors can take home and enjoy in their own kitchens. Ginger is a constant in my cooking for the warmth, balance and depth it brings. I’m excited to celebrate the diversity of ingredients, to honour different foods and spices from across the world.”

Food Theatre

What to Expect at the James Du Pavey Festival Food Theatre

The James Du Pavey Festival Food Theatre will once again be free to attend, offering visitors a front-row seat to expret culinary demonstrations.

Hosted by Ryan Kennedy – presenter of the mid-morning show on Shropshire Live, the festival’s official media partner – the live theatre will feature:

  • Headline Demonstrations by Rachel Green: Expect energetic, witty, and deeply inspiring live cooking sessions as Rachel honours seasonal ingredients and global spice traditions.

  • Local & Regional: A curated line-up of regional culinary icons, including artisan tutors from Perry’s Field to Fork Artisan Cookery School.

  • Pro Tips & Inspiration: Learn techniques, seasonal recipes, and expert kitchen tips you can easily recreate at home.

Whether you’re a passionate home cook, a fan of seasonal British produce, or simply looking to soak in the bustling festival atmosphere, this year’s line-up promises an unforgettable celebration of flavor and heritage.

Join us at the James Du Pavey Festival Food Theatre for a day of live cooking, spice exploration, and culinary inspiration!