For the first time ever, the BBC Good Food Festival will take place in the stunning grounds of Hampton Court Palace.

The festival, which runs over the three-day August bank holiday weekend, will see 18,000 hungry visitors walk through the palace gates to sample the food and drink on offer.

Packed with producers and showcasing delicious food, drink and ingredients to try and buy, visitors to the festival can explore taster dishes from the Richmond based Bingham Hotel and restaurant, or create the perfect summer picnic from a selection of artisan creators.

Laura Biggs, managing director at River Street Events running the festival, says: “The palace is a beautiful landmark and stunning backdrop for such an event.

“As a local business we know the surrounding area really well which will help us understand and deliver the local elements of the event as we intend to integrate local restaurants into the festival."

Surrey Comet:

Masterchef presenter John Torode will be appearing at the BBC Good Food Festival

The new Summer Kitchen stage will host stars including John Torode, Shelina Permalloo, Gennaro Contaldo and Lisa Faulkner, who will rustle up summer dishes, using fresh, seasonal ingredients.

The historical setting adds an extra treat as the palace’s food historians will prepare Georgian recipes in its ancient kitchens.

Palace director Paul Gray says: “In its 500 year history the Palace has seen many a feast prepared for kings and queens, but this is the first time we have held a major food festival within the Palace grounds.”

As well as the culinary delights, entertainment will keep families and children busy with live music, kids cookery schools and family trails.

BBC Good Food Festival; Hampton Court Palace; August 23 to 25; 10am to 5pm, 6pm on Saturday; Free to £65; 0844 5811366 or click here.