Back for 2026, we’re thrilled to announce the FULL Live Cookery Theatre Line-up for our Sixth Annual Celebration on The Stray.
The 2026 edition also introduces a brand-new host, with acclaimed chef consultant, former professional chef and Yorkshire legend Stephanie Moon set to compère the for the first time.
Enjoy TEN immersive demonstrations from of a diverse selection of the region’s culinary experts, led by independent business owners, renowned head chefs, AA Rosette recipients, Great British Menu competitors and more.
2026 Cookery Theatre Line-Up (Ripley Castle)
SATURDAY 22nd August
11:00 Iain Wilkinson (Storehouse Kitchen)
12:00 Shane White (The Inn at South Stainley)
13:00 Chris Hobson (Wrea Head Hall)
14:00 Jessica Wyatt with Steph Moon (Mama Doreen’s Emporium / Festival Host & Compere)
15:00 Mikael Paylor (The Craven Arms)
16:00 Owen Diaram (Cook With Owen / MasterChef)
SUNDAY 23rd August
11:00 Ruth Hansom (Hansom Restaurant)
12:00 Adam Rasburn (Wild Infused Vinegars)
13:00 Adam Degg (FIFTY TWO at Rudding Park)
14:00 Lisa Bennison (Bettys Cookery School)
15:00 Charlie Shires (HG1 Bakes)
16:00 Alice Falkenham (Homegrown Hospitality, Wetherby)
Thinking of joining us? This live entertainment is included in the price of your ticket! Here’s some further information on each of this year’s experts…
Iain Wilkinson (Storehouse Kitchen) – Chef-Owner of Storehouse Kitchen, a modern smokehouse, grill and bar prided for its use of seasonal, ethically-sourced ingredients and refined flavours.
Shane White (The Inn at South Stainley) – Executive Head Chef of The Inn at South Stainley, an award-winning independent inn, country pub and restaurant that balances modern-influences with traditional charm.
Chris Hobson (Wrea Head Hall) – Honouree of the Deliciously Yorkshire Rising Star Award and Senior Sous Chef of Wrea Head Hall, a luxury country house hotel on the edge of Scarborough.
Jessica Wyatt (Mama Doreen’s Emporium) – Confectioneries expert, Company Director and co-founder of Mama Doreen’s Emporium, an independent afternoon tea experience and bespoke on-site bakery in the heart of Harrogate.
Mikael Paylor (The Craven Arms) – Expert in game and foraged products, and Head Chef of The Craven Arms in Appletreewick, a charming pub nestled within Wharfedale that’s celebrated its use of high-quality, seasonal British produce.
Ruth Hansom (Hansom Restaurant) – Great British Menu star, former Young National Chef of The Year and multi-award winning independent business owner with Hansom, a Michelin-guide listed contemporary dining experience in Bedale.
Adam Rasburn (Wild Infused Vinegars) – Chef, artisan and creator of Wild Infused Vinegar, an immersive private dining experience centered around creating nutrient-dense, seasonal home cooked meals.
Adam Degg (FIFTY TWO at Rudding Park) – Three-time AA Rosette honouree, Great British Menu Competitor and Head Chef at Fifty Two at Rudding Park – Harrogate’s first Michelin-starred restaurant.
Lisa Bennison (Bettys Cookery School) – Culinary mentor, tutor and Manager of the award-winning Bettys Cookery School, proudly educating the secrets of cakes, pastry and entertaining.
Charlie Shires (HG1 Bakes) – Confectionaries and pastries expert and the baker behind HG1Bakes – an independent cake business in Harrogate renowned for their bespoke buttercream cakes and vintage-inspired aesthetics.
