
Food and Drink
Whether you're at RIAT for the full show weekend or just stopping by for Departure Day, knowing where to grab a bite to eat (and maybe a pint!) is key to keeping your energy up. Here's a breakdown of what to expect inside the showground and in the surrounding areas for food and drink, including evening options in nearby villages.
Food & Drink Inside the RIAT Showground
Variety & Quality
The showground at RIAT is well-equipped with a wide range of food vendors, from quick snacks to hearty meals. Expect a mix of:
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Classic festival foods: burgers, chips, hot dogs, wraps
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International options: curries, noodles, burritos, German bratwurst
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Vegetarian & vegan: falafel wraps, veggie burgers, plant-based bowls
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Sweet treats: doughnuts, ice cream vans, waffles, crepes
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Coffee & drinks: barista vans, soft drinks, smoothies
Bars & Alcohol
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Licensed bars are dotted around the showground.
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Expect:
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Craft beer tents
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Pimm’s & prosecco stands
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Basic wine & cider selections
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ID checks are enforced.
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Seating areas near bars often feature live music or chill zones.
Insider Tips:
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Prices are typical for an event, slightly above average, so budget accordingly.
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Queues form quickly around lunchtime, eat early or late to skip the rush.
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Many vendors now accept contactless payments, but it's wise to carry some cash just in case.
Evening Dining – Surrounding Villages & Towns
After the showground closes (typically around 7 PM), you'll need to venture off-site for evening meals. Here’s where to go:
Nearby Villages
Fairford (1 mile from showground)
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The Bull Hotel – Traditional pub with hearty meals and a great beer garden.
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The Plough Inn – A cosy, historic spot serving quality British fare.
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7a Coffee Shop – Also offers evening dining or light takeaway options.
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Chinese and Indian takeaways available in the town centre.
Lechlade (4 miles away)
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The Riverside Pub – Scenic pub right by the Thames. Great for dinner and a drink.
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Viva La Pizza – Family-run, excellent for takeaway or a quick casual meal.
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Yang's Kitchen-Chinese takeaway. (Personal Favourite)
Whelford / Kempsford
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Small villages closer to the showground. Limited options but sometimes host pop-up food trucks during RIAT week or private beer tents for campers.
Larger Towns (10–30 mins drive)
Cirencester (10 miles west)
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Packed with pubs, restaurants, and cosy cafes.
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Options include:
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The Crown – Stylish pub with good food.
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Rajpoot Indian – Popular Indian restaurant.
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Bees Knees– Upscale Bar-Pub Food.
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Great for groups, but parking can get tight during RIAT week.
Swindon (15 miles southeast)
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Chain restaurants (Nando’s, TGI Friday’s, Pizza Express) and pubs.
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Larger supermarkets (Tesco, M&S, Sainsbury’s) if you want to stock up.
For Campers & Evening Crowd
If you’re staying at one of RIAT’s campsites (like Townend Farm, Kempsford, Totterdown Camping), there are usually:
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Evening food vans on-site: pizza, curry, burgers, etc.
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Bar tents or local beer setups.
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Occasional live music. Townend Farm have 3 nights of live music.
Pro Tip: Reservations & Crowds
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Local pubs and restaurants fill up quickly during RIAT week, book in advance if you want a sit-down meal.
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Most food options in villages stop serving around 8–9 PM, so don’t leave it too late.
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Takeaway options are handy if you’re tired and just want food at your tent or accommodation.