Powderham Castle is encouraging sustainable travel ahead of this weekend's Food Festival.

More than 10,000 visitors are expected to attend the festival on Saturday, October 7 and Sunday 8, which will feature activities, tastings, demos and entertainment. 

The organisers are working towards making it a net zero event and are challenging people to find alternatives to driving there.

The most obvious are public transport. There are trains to Starcross, which is a 30-40 minute walk from the castle, or a short journey on the number 2 Stagecoach bus. The Exe Valley Trail runs from Starcross to Powderham Castle.

Cyclists can follow the Sustrans cycle route 2, which offers a scenic ride along the coast and filters through the countryside, passing right by Powderham Castle. Route2Bikes and Saddles and Paddles are giving a 15 per cent discount to those who plan on using their bikes to get to and from the festival! Simply quote Powderham Castle when securing your hire to receive the discount. 

Another alternative is to go on horseback.

It's also possible to make part of the journey by water.  People travelling from Exmouth and Topsham can take a ferry to Starcross or Exminster, and continue to Powderham from there. People with kayaking or paddleboarding skills could also go along the River Exe, using either their own kit or hiring it. There are plenty of places to moor along the riverbank, and walking trails to the castle are plentiful. 

Although eager to promote alternative and eco-friendly methods of transport, Powderham Food Festival will be offering parking to those who wish to drive, with a charge of £8 per vehicle per day. All of the proceeds made from the festival will go towards maintaining Powderham Castle for years to come.

A spokesperson for the festival said: "With a wide range of eco-conscious travel options awaiting this year's festival attendees, participants can savour not just the flavours of the event but also the sustainable journey that precedes it. So, whether you opt to paddle, pedal, trot, or sail, your eco-friendly adventure to the festival will be an exceptional and unforgettable experience, ensuring that your footprint on the planet remains small while your memories remain large."