Tom Kerridge steps back from Pub in the Park
Tom Kerridge has announced he is no longer involved with Pub in the Park, the British gastronomy festival he has been closely associated with since its launch in 2017.
The Michelin-starred pub operator revealed the decision in an Instagram post. “Hey guys, I’ve seen Pub in the Park gearing up for next year, so just a quick note to say I’m no longer involved,” he wrote. “It’s been a great ride and I’m really grateful for all of your support. I wish the team all the best as they head into 2026. Big love, Tom.”
Kerridge’s departure comes during a period of transition for the festival. In September, organisers confirmed that Pub in the Park Marlow had been sold to Rewind Festival, part of the Live Nation portfolio.
At the time, organisers said that by “combining the key management teams of Rewind and Pub in the Park” they were confident the event would retain its “unique feel and experience” and continue to benefit from strong local knowledge.
Raising a glass to pub culture
Since its debut, Pub in the Park has grown into one of the UK’s best-known food festivals, attracting top chefs including Raymond Blanc, Yotam Ottolenghi, Candice Brown and Ben Tish, while celebrating British gastropub culture.
In 2022, for instance, Tom Kerridge’s two Michelin-starred pub The Hand & Flowers served up a menu including a sumptuous pork belly and smoked cod’s roe taco, complete with crackling and an apple ketchup, whilst Atul Kochhar returns with his popular Murgh Tikka Masala Pie, and Tommy Bank’s Made in Oldstead treated guests to his Bourbon & Chicory Pulled Pork Bao with glazed Oldstead Kimchi.
Partner Content
Musicians including Sophie Ellis Bexter, McFly, Kaiser Chiefs, Rag ‘N’ Bone Man, The Human League and Craig David also took to the stage at the 2022 event.
Next steps
Earlier this year, Kerridge opened the Chalk Freehouse in Chelsea, a leased and tenanted Greene King pub, signalling a new chapter in his expanding restaurant portfolio. The pub replaced Kerridge’s Butcher’s Tap and Grill.
Meanwhile, festival organisers are pressing ahead with plans for next year’s event. Pub in the Park will return to Higginson Park, Marlow, from 14 to 17 May 2026.
A spokesperson said festivalgoers can expect “new chefs and returning icons, incredible pop-up restaurants, new stages and returning favourites such as the epic fire pit and picture-perfect fun fair,” with further announcements due in January.
Early-bird tickets went on sale yesterday morning (Monday 1 December), and are available until sold out or until 19 December.
Related news
For the tenth day of Christmas…
Strong peak trading to boost Naked Wines' year profitability
