Culinary Theatre
CULINARY THEATRE - IN ASSOCIATION WITH PURE PEAK MAGAZINE
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.
2026 line-up:
Greg Robinson - Head Chef, The Maynard, Grindleford
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 29 years.
Lee Smith - Chef Owner, Lovage, Bakewell
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.
Oliver Parnell - Owner, Parnell&Co. Catering, Chesterfield/Sheffield
Oliver has over 20 years of experience in the industry. He founded Parnell&Co. Catering, a luxury private cheffing and catering business, in order to offer a wide range of bespoke catering services.
The business was founded on Oliver’s passion for exceptional food and impeccable service, with a focus on listening attentively to clients’ needs and expectations to deliver a truly personalised experience.
Jack Windsor - Chef Owner, Windsor's Bakery, Sheffield
Jack has over 20 years of experience in the hospitality and twice won Young Chef of the Year at the eatSheffield awards.
He now puts his passion into teaching future generations as a chef lecturer at Sheffield College and runs a business specialising in pies and outside catering events with his wife.
Ed Armstrong - Co-Owner, Ginger Butchers, Bakewell
Ed belongs to the fourth generations of farmers and butchers in the Armstrong family. He is proud of his heritage, farm and the superb meat and home-made produce that Ginger butchers provide for customers in Bakewell and the surrounding area.
Don't miss one of Ed's fascinating demos in our Culinary Theatre
Bakewell Country Festival is a fundraising event for Bakewell Agricultural & Horticultural Society (Charity No. 1045165).