Covent Garden, London

Thursdays in Covent Garden are already red-letter days for foodies. Witness the scenes from 12.00pm until 9.00pm as gastronomes of all ages descend on the Real Food Market held in the historic Piazza. From children cajoling their parents for delicious treats, to amateur chefs seeking out super-fresh fish and rare ingredients for a classy supper, this weekly gathering of some of the country’s best food suppliers has gone from strength to strength.

August sees it add another string to its bow in the guise of Speakers’ Corner, a twice-daily talk from top chefs and food experts. Like its famous namesake in Hyde Park, it’s a relaxed, interactive affair with visitors encouraged to participate in demonstrations on subjects as diverse as beekeeping, beer brewing and urban farming. For the kids, there are cupcake decoration classes (best bring wet wipes for those sticky fingers!) courtesy of Crumbs and Doilies and the art of chocolate making with Chocolution.

Eco-friendly eating is also a key theme, with particular attention being paid to current issues such as food provenance, seasonal eating and environmental issues. Look out for a talk from the head chef of the Duke of Cambridge, London’s first ‘green’ gastropub, who’ll demonstrate how simple and tasty organic eating can be.

6th August
1.00pm – Tea tastings and a talk on the health benefits of tea with Tea Pigs
6.00pm – Beer and ale tastings with Meantime Brewery

13th August
1.00pm – Bee-keeping advice, honey & beeswax workshops with James Hamill from The Hive Honey Shop – London
6.00pm – Urban Farming talks and demonstrations with Lesley Wertheimer from Capital Growth

20th August
1.00pm – Cupcake decorating for children with Ella’s Bakehouse
6.00pm – The raw chocolate movement experience with Chocolution

Content of the talks are subject to changes.

The sessions run for 20 minutes twice a day at 1.00pm and 6.00pm on 6th, 13th and 20th August, with the earlier slot including activities for kids. Then, sufficiently inspired, just wander around the Real Food Market’s fabulous stalls where you’ll find everything you need for an unforgettable feast.

Covent Garden’s Real Food Market runs every Thursday from 12.00pm until 9.00pm throughout August.