Holker Wild Venison Week 2026
Wednesday 7th to Sunday 11th October
Discover why wild venison is one of Britain’s most delicious, nutritious and sustainable foods as Wild Venison Week returns to Holker Hall & Gardens.
This expanded five-day celebration will bring together exceptional food, live cookery, free tastings, expert talks and special behind-the-scenes experiences, all showcasing the flavour, versatility and provenance of Holker Estate Wild Venison.
Recognised by Cumbria Life Magazine as one of the county’s Foodie Fifteen local produce heroes, Holker Estate Wild Venison is naturally lean, high in protein and rich in iron, zinc and B vitamins. It comes from free-ranging deer responsibly managed across the Estate as part of Holker’s stewardship of its woodlands and natural environment.
Holker Wild Venison Week menu
Throughout the week, the Courtyard Café will serve a specially created menu celebrating Holker Estate Wild Venison in a range of seasonal dishes.
From quick-to-prepare dishes to slow-cooked favourites, the menu will demonstrate that venison is not simply reserved for special occasions. It is a versatile and accessible ingredient that can be enjoyed in many different ways.
Free tastings and recipe ideas
Visitors will be able to sample Holker Estate Wild Venison during free tasting sessions in the Courtyard.
There will also be opportunities to collect recipe sheets, discover new ways to cook venison at home and speak to members of Holker’s Estate Team about wild deer management and its importance in protecting ancient woodland.
Live cookery demonstrations
Live demonstrations will show how straightforward it can be to prepare and cook wild venison at home.
Holker’s chefs will share practical ideas and inspiration for making the most of this naturally lean and richly flavoured local meat.
Holker Estate Wild Venison in the Estate Shop
An expanded selection of fresh and frozen Holker Estate Wild Venison will be available in the Estate Shop throughout the week.
The range will include Royal Holker Haggis and Holker’s signature Gamekeeper’s Sausage, produced using Holker Estate Wild Venison by award-winning butcher Dales of Kirkby Lonsdale.
Discover the story behind the food
A special exhibition in Holker’s Discovery Hub will explore the relationship between wild deer, woodland management and biodiversity.
Visitors can learn how responsible deer management helps protect woodlands, encourages natural regeneration and supports the wider natural environment across the Lake District.
Holker Wild Venison Royal Haggis Bon Bons
Supper & Stories
A special Supper & Stories evening will bring together food and conversation, with members of Holker’s Estate Team explaining why responsible deer management is an essential part of caring for the landscape and producing sustainable wild venison.
Booking details will be announced as part of the full Wild Venison Week programme.
Deer Park Safari with Holker’s Forestry & Deer Manager
Visitors can also book a special Deer Park Safari into Holker’s historic parkland.
Led by Holker’s Forestry & Deer Manager, the experience will offer the chance to encounter the Estate’s closed herd of fallow deer and hear the story of a herd that has formed part of Holker for more than 400 years.
Plan your visit
Wild Venison Week takes place at Holker Hall & Gardens from Wednesday 7 to Sunday 11 October 2026.
Most activities during Holker Wild Venison Week are free to attend. Full timings, prices and booking information will be published shortly. Tickets for Venison Week Supper & Stories and Deer Park Safaris will be limited and subject to an admission fee. To join the pre-release list and ensure your get a notification as soon as tickets go on sale, CLICK HERE.