The North's first field-to-flame festival, Meat Up, will take place at Ashley Showground in Altrincham on Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 August 2026. Organisers describe it as an immersive weekend experience celebrating food, countryside skills, and community connection.
What to Expect at Meat Up Festival
The festival blends live-fire cooking, British farming, live music, and festival culture. The Fire Stage will host top UK live-fire chefs and pitmasters, including Levi Roots, Genevieve Taylor, and Adam Purnell. The Butchery Stage will feature expert demonstrations on meat preparation and traditional butchery.
Live music performances include Craig Charles, Ben Ottewell (Gomez), Mark Radcliffe, Tom Hingley (Inspiral Carpets), Bluetones Acoustic, and Harleymoon Kemp. A local talent and DJ stage will showcase home-grown acts.
Family-Friendly Activities
Meat Up is designed for families, with a dedicated Kids' Zone featuring an interactive petting zoo, obstacle course, storytelling, arts and crafts in a teepee, and more. Visitors can also enjoy a free all-inclusive fun fair, hot air balloon rides soaring 50m above the showground, and an outdoor cinema.
The Farmers' Market celebrates local produce and field-to-fork principles, while the Thatchers Cider Party adds a lively atmosphere.
Location and Camping
Ashley Showground is conveniently located near the M56, 10 minutes from Altrincham train station, and under 30 minutes from Manchester city centre. Camping is available from Friday 31 July, with options for tents and live-in vehicles.
Charity Support and Tickets
The festival supports The Farming Community Network and The Burnt Chef Project, raising awareness of mental health challenges in farming and hospitality. Early bird tickets are sold out. Adult Weekend Tickets are £69.50, youth (13-15) £34.60, and under 12s free. Day tickets are £33.50 for adults, £18 for youth, and free for under 12s. The Ultimate Adult Weekend Ticket is £120, including early entry, priority parking, priority camping, and an exclusive tee.
Organiser Steve Crowe said: "Meat Up is more than a food event – it’s a cultural outdoor experience, bringing people together around fire, field and music. For the first time in the North, visitors can expect two days of high-energy atmosphere, flame-cooked food, countryside skills and unforgettable shared moments rooted in real fire and real connection."
