South West Initiatives

South West 660 drives £10m boost to region’s visitor economy

From a simple idea to a major tourism driver, South West 660 is clocking up some impressive milestones.

Jacob Ashburton-Dunning crowned South West Chef of the Year 2026

A chef from the acclaimed Gidleigh Park in Devon has been crowned South West Chef of the Year 2026, the region’s most prestigious culinary title.

South West producers celebrate latest Taste of the West Awards wins

Food and drink producers across the South West are celebrating following the latest round of Taste of the West Awards, with businesses from Somerset, Devon, Gloucestershire and Bristol among those receiving Gold, Silver and Commended accolades.

MOR launches Surf & Turf Sunday

Tom Sellers’ coastal restaurant at Carbis Bay Estate introduces a £39 sharing-style Sunday menu celebrating the best of land and sea.

Pumpkin picking, spooky tractor rides and family fun this October half term at Healey’s Cyder Farm

From haunted tractor rides to pumpkin carving, Healey’s Cornish Cyder Farm is inviting families to make some magical Halloween memories this October half term, as the much-loved Cornish business celebrates its 40th anniversary.

Taste of the West launches new Innovation Award with The Food Works SW

A new award for South West food and drink businesses turning bold ideas into reality, with a tailored support package from The Food Works SW for the winner.

South West’s finest chefs battle it out for top culinary title

Talented chefs from across the region will be battling it out for the prestigious title of South West Chef of the Year at the end of this month.

Dryad Gin brings a 007 twist to Taunton as The Tailor’s Speakeasy returns

Dryad Gin is returning to Gurds Menswear this December for a second Tailor’s Speakeasy, complete with secret passwords, 007-inspired cocktails and hundreds of pounds worth of raffle prizes.

The Cornwall Hotel Collection to take on Walk for Wellbeing 2026 in support of Hospitality Action

Staff from across The Cornwall Hotel Collection will be taking to the north Cornish coast on Sunday 25th October as part of the Walk for Wellbeing 2026, raising funds for Hospitality Action.

27 restaurants join the Trencherman’s Guide for Edition 34

The South West’s longest-established independent dining guide has revealed 27 new members for its 34th edition, bringing together some of the most exciting restaurants, pubs and hotels across the region.

From sea to plate: MOR showcases Cornwall’s Bluefin Tuna story with special Autumn feast

MOR is delighted to invite guests to experience one of Cornwall’s most remarkable marine stories this autumn, with a special evening celebrating the return of Atlantic bluefin tuna to Cornish waters.

A little marmalade magic Paddington-inspired afternoon tea at Carbis Bay

Step into a world of the nation’s favourite little bear this autumn with a delightful Paddington-inspired Afternoon Tea at Carbis Bay.

Six nights, six curries, six corners of the globe as Lechlade restaurant goes on a Curry World Tour

You Me and Umami to serve up a different curry from around the world every night during National Curry Week.

The Lord Mayor of Exeter officially taps open the Utopian Devonian Oktoberfest

Mayor of Exeter opens host of Oktoberfest happenings at Exeter’s Arcadia from 25 September – 3 October 2026.

Taste of the West and FareShare South West launch The Community Table Award

New award celebrates the charities, social enterprises and community organisations bringing good food to everyone across the South West

St Austell Brewery honours beer icon Tribute with special commemorative glass

St Austell Brewery has unveiled a special commemorative glass celebrating its 175-year anniversary and Tribute, its much-loved pale ale that has been at the heart of the brewery’s beer portfolio for more than a quarter of a century.

South West Initiatives

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