Culinary Theatre
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CULINARY THEATRE - IN ASSOCIATION WITH PURE PEAK MAGAZINE
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2024 line-up to be announced.
Our culinary theatre programme is curated by renowned local food writer and production editor of Pure Peak magazine, Lesley Draper. Lesley honed her craft for over two decades as the Sheffield Telegraph's food critic before founding Pure Peak magazine with partner Steve Caddy back in 2007.
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2023's exciting demostration line-up comprised the following acclaimed chefs:
Greg Robinson - Head Chef, The Maynard, Grindleford
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Greg is no stranger to the finer aspects of catering in the Peak District, having previously been head chef at award winning venues within the national park.
However, he originally hails from slightly further afield than Grindleford – he was born in Kenya.
A consummate professional, Greg has been cheffing since he was 14 years old and has now been a professional chef for 28 years.
Lee Smith - Chef Owner, Lovage, Bakewell
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Lee Smith is no stranger to accolades, having prevously held a Michelin star and reached the regional finals of the BBC's Great British Menu series in 2019.
He opened Lovage in Bakewell to be closer to his Mansfield hometown. Lovage is a modern British restaurant with a casual country vibe where Lee shares his passion for cooking sentimental food that reflects his growth as a chef.
Mark Aisthorpe - Chef Owner, The Bull's Head, Holymoorside
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After working around the UK in Michelin starred establishments, Mark Aisthorpe decided opened The Bull's Head in 2016.
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Mark creates hyper-seasonal menus utilising a supply chain from a limited geographic area, as well as relying on local forages and neighbouring farmers for the best possible produce he can buy. Mark appeared on the BBC's Great British Menu in 2022, reaching the regional final, and holds two AA Rosettes for culinary experience.
Chris Mapp - Chef Owner, The Tickled Trout, Barlow
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Chris trained under Marcus Wareing at the 2 Michelin Star Pétrus in London before heading to the Michelin star Greenhouse in Mayfair. He subsequently managed No.6 restaurant in Padstow with Paul Ainsworth before returning to Derbyshire.
The Tickled Trout is Chris's old local and since buying it he has worked tirelessly with his team to create a stunning dining pub that his home village can feel proud of, using great ingredients sourced from local suppliers they know and trust.
Tom Lawson - Chef Patron, Rafters Sheffield and Rafters Riverside House
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Tom Lawson, Chef Patron at Rafters Restaurant and Rafters Riverside House has been cooking since the age of 13 when he enrolled on a holiday cooking course at Sheffield College.
He joined the industry immediately after completing his GCSE exams and is now at the top of his field. After working at various local pubs – including Rowley's in Baslow, where he met business partner Alistair Myers – he is now co-owner of Rafters Restaurant which currently holds accolades including 2 AA Rosettes and a listing in the Michelin Guide.
Bakewell Country Festival is a fundraising event for Bakewell Agricultural & Horticultural Society (Charity No. 1045165).