Leicester’s historic Abbey Pumping Station will be serving up a weekend of family fun, fabulous food, and handcrafted goods at its first ever Food & Craft Fair, taking place this weekend.
Set against the backdrop of one of Leicester’s most iconic industrial heritage sites, the event, this Saturday and Sunday (20–21 September), promises a vibrant mix of local flavours, artisan crafts, and family-friendly entertainment.
Picture credit: Abbey Pumping Station
With over 40 stalls and food trailers, there’s something for everyone. Visitors can indulge in:
? Hot food & sweet treats – from homemade pies, curries, and waffles to churros, milkshakes, and more
? Drinks & tastings – including barista coffee, cocktails, and cider sampling
? Handcrafted goods – including jewellery, ceramics, prints, candles, and knitwear by local makers
Outdoors, vintage vehicle lovers can explore:
- A classic Kirby & West milk float
- A Frears & Blacks bread van
- A coal-fired fish & chip van
- Plus a vintage steam shovel, Morris crane, and even the Leicestershire Tardis
Children can enjoy:
- Face painting (Saturday only)
- The pumping station playground
- A ride on the site’s vintage railway (just 50p per ride)
?? Adults and history lovers can take part in free heritage talks inside the engine house, running on both days.
Event Details
? Abbey Pumping Station, Leicester
?? Saturday 20 & Sunday 21 September
? 11am–4pm (both days)
?? Admission: £2 for adults | Free for under-13s
Cllr Vi Dempster, Assistant City Mayor for Culture, said: “A trip to Abbey Pumping Station is always a great family day out, but this weekend promises to be extra special.
We’re delighted to be hosting the station’s first Food & Craft Fair, welcoming talented local food producers, artists, and craftspeople to this unique setting. We hope local families will join us and enjoy all the event has to offer.”
