Competitor entries · June–October 2026

Compete at the Championships

Three categories — Pro, Amateur, Young Baker. Traditional is mandatory; Specialist is optional. Panel-blind judging on Saturday 21 November 2026.

Entries closed

Competitor entries have closed for the 2026 championships. Thank you to every baker who has entered.

If you'd still like to compete, join the waiting list using the form below. We'll contact you if a place becomes available.

Otherwise, join us at the championships on Saturday 21 November 2026 and taste the year's finest shortbread.

Can I enter from outside the UK?

Yes — international entrants are welcome. Entry is open to bakers from anywhere in the world; you are responsible for your own travel and for bringing your finished bakes — along with the ingredients you used, which form part of your table — to Inverness on event day.
Do I bake at the venue, or bring my shortbread ready-made?

All baking is done in advance — there is no baking at the venue. Bring your finished shortbread to Inverness on event day and set up your table — which includes the raw ingredients you used — along with the tasting samples and judging pieces. See the Rules of Entry for the full table layout.
Which category should I enter — Professional or Amateur?

If you receive any income from your baking, you must enter as a Professional — Amateur is only for bakers who do not sell their goods. Professionals also need to be registered with their local Environmental Health Officer (or their country's equivalent food-safety authority). Young Baker is open to under-16s. The Categories page sets out each category in full.
Do I have to enter the Traditional category?

Yes. Every competitor must enter the Traditional category. You may then add up to two Specialist entries alongside it.
How are allergens handled at judging?

You are responsible for declaring allergens. Judging is conducted with full ingredient transparency and tasting samples are labelled for the public.