As a nation of cheese enthusiasts, we don’t think it would be over curdling the cheddar to say that pretty much any cheese-themed event is met with open arms (and open mouths) around the UK.

But, weeks of lockdown have slowed down our cheese consumption, which is not only bad news for our tastebuds but also small cheesemakers and shops across the country who are struggling for business. 

Enter: the British Cheese Weekender.

It’s the UK’s first virtual cheese festival which you can enjoy from the comfort of your home. You learn all about your favourite cheeses, what to pair them with and scoff along to demonstrations and talks. 

There’s absolutely loads to take part in with 14 cheese tastings, nine virtual events, two cheese matches and – wait for it – A CHEESE QUIZ. Could it get any better (without leaving the house)?

The organisers of the event are keen to stress that a huge motivation for the cheese festival is to support small farmhouse and artisan cheesemakers in Britain, many of whom lost up to 90% of their business overnight when restaurants were closed at the beginning of lockdown. 

They’re urging everyone who takes part in the festival to order cheese to their homes from independent makers and stores. They explain steps for participation quite simply as: 

1. Buy good cheese from a small cheesemaker or independent retailer.

2. Tune in on over the weekend and get involved in the events and activities.

3. Have fun, eat good British cheese and enjoy the weekend.

To make it as easy as possible to do this the organisers have provided two, very comprehensive lists of cheese makers to buy from. Visit the Academy of Cheese and the Specialist Cheese Makers, to find the one closest to you. 

The British Cheese Weekender will run from the 8-10 May, from midday until 9pm. Find out more details here.

Images: Getty / Camille Brodard