Annual events in Britain

New Year’s Day Parade, London, England

1 January 2026

London’s New Year’s Day Parade has evolved into one of the capital’s great traditions. Starting at 12pm, the procession along the capital’s West End will fill the streets with marching bands, cheerleaders, acrobats, kites and more.

Celtic Connections, Glasgow, western Scotland

15 January – 1 February 2026

Glasgow’s annual folk, roots and world music festival celebrates Celtic music and its connections to cultures across the globe. It’s the largest annual winter music festival of its kind and Britain’s premier celebration of Celtic music, and usually features concerts, ceilidhs, talks, art exhibitions and workshops.

Burns Night, Scotland-wide

25 January 2026

Every January Scotland celebrates the birthday of Robert Burns – the national poet of Scotland – traditionally marked with food, drams, dancing and verse. An array of events take place across Scotland to mark the occasion. Don’t forget to address the haggis!

Dydd Santes Dwynwen, Wales-wide

25 January 2026

This day is in honour of Wales’ patron saint of lovers, St Dwynwen, and is the Welsh version of St Valentine’s Day. It exists due to St Dwynwen’s own experiences with lost love and her later commitment to becoming a nun. Why not visit the church dedicated to St Dwynwen on Ynys Llanddwyn, Anglesey, on her special day?

Bath Rebalance Festival, Bath, south-west England,

29 January – 16 February 2026

Start 2026 as you mean to go on at Rebalance Bath – Festival of Wellbeing, taking place from late January to mid-February. Enjoy three weeks of feel-good activities which aim to boost your physical and mental wellbeing.

RBS Six Nations Rugby, Cardiff, London, Edinburgh

Late January / Early February – March 2026 (dates TBC)

The Six Nations Championship for England, France, Ireland, Italy, Scotland and Wales will see matches take place at venues including the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, Twickenham Stadium in London and Murrayfield Stadium in Edinburgh. 

Dark Skies Festival, Yorkshire, northern England

13 February – 1 March 2026

The Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors National Parks, which remain some of the darkest places in England, are once again running a joint Dark Skies Festival in February. Planned activities include night runs, canoeing and night navigation, astrophotography workshops, stargazing safaris and much more. Cumbria and the South Downs are also hosting celestial festivals in 2026, while Welsh Dark Skies Week will unite all eight of Wales’ protected landscapes for a starry show like no other, with dates and details to be confirmed.

Chinese New Year, London and around Britain

17 February 2026

London hosts a Chinese New Year celebration each year, marking the occasion with a range of joyous festivities and a spectacular parade. The largest festival of its kind outside Asia, it is free to attend and usually takes place in Trafalgar Square, Chinatown and across the West End. Other major Chinese New Year celebrations in Britain are held in cities including Manchester, Liverpool and Glasgow. 2026 celebrates the Year of the Horse.

Glasgow Film Festival, Glasgow, western Scotland

25 February – 8 March 2026

The fastest-growing and third-largest film festival in Britain, with more than 350 events including new local and international film from all genres, from mainstream to art-house, classics to cult.

St. David’s Day, Wales-wide

1 March 2026

St David is the patron saint of Wales and this day is a celebration of all things Welsh. Expect plenty of red dragons adorning Welsh flags, as well as parades of daffodils, leeks and flags of St David himself. Traditionally, the capital, Cardiff, holds a National St David’s Day Parade.

Cheltenham Festival, Gloucestershire, south-west England

10 – 13 March 2026

Held close to the lovely Regency town of Cheltenham, this National Hunt race meeting attracts prize money second only to the Grand National. Famous for the roar arising from the stands as the tape is raised for the start of the first race, the excitement continues to build until its climax with Friday’s signature Gold Cup – one of the greatest of all jump-racing events.   

Glasgow International Comedy Festival, Glasgow, western Scotland

11 – 29 March 2026

Regularly the largest event of its kind in Europe, this comedy extravaganza normally features a line-up of both big league players and emerging talent from around Britain and beyond, performing in venues throughout the city. 

St Patrick’s Day, Northern Ireland and parts of Britain

17 March 2026

The national saint of Ireland is celebrated in traditional fashion with festivals, parades, carnivals and concerts taking place across Northern Ireland and around Britain, usually including a parade in London.

The Oxford & Cambridge Boat Race, London, England

4 April 2026

First raced in 1829, the Boat Race is one of the oldest sporting events in the world. Watched along the banks of the Tideway, located between Putney and Mortlake in south London, this unique sporting event sees two strong squads of athletes competing against each other in men’s and women’s races.

Grand National meeting, Aintree Racecourse, Liverpool, north-west England

9 – 11 April 2026

One of the most famous horse races in the world sees competitors make two circuits of the Grand National course, tackling 30 fences as they cover four-and-a-half miles. The event’s colourful, fashionable celebration, Ladies’ Day, will take place on 10 April.

Manchester Marathon, Manchester, north-west England

19 April 2026

Put your running shoes on for Britain’s second-biggest marathon, which takes racers past some of Manchester’s most iconic landmarks. You’ll be sure of a warm Mancunian welcome from the thousands of spectators who line the city-wide course to cheer you on.

St George’s Day, across England

23 April 2026

St George’s Day celebrates the patron saint of England with activities ranging from festivals to ‘dragon’ hunts and medieval banquets usually happening across England.

London Marathon, London, England

26 April 2026

The TCS London Marathon is a phenomenal event to be a part of, as a participant and a spectator. It’s not just a monumental physical challenge, but also the world’s largest fundraising event – and one of the six top marathons that make up the World Marathon Majors.  

Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival, Speyside, north-east Scotland

29 April – 4 May 2026

Spirited, inspiring, Scottish – Speyside’s distilleries open their doors and invite visitors from around the world to taste the finest whiskies on offer. Experience the passion behind the region’s famous tipple, and enjoy foodie events, live music, tours and more.

Cheltenham Jazz Festival, Gloucestershire, south-west England 

29 April – 4 May 2026

Every year, Cheltenham Jazz Festival represents the start of the summer in Cheltenham, bringing together world-renowned performers and jazz enthusiasts from across the globe. 

Liverpool Sound City, Liverpool, north-west England

3 – 4 May 2025

Liverpool Sound City is an annual international music festival and industry conference taking place over the weekend. The event welcomes global stars, local artists and key industry figures. The festival has provided a platform for many future stars early on in their careers, including the likes of Ed Sheeran, alt-J and Calvin Harris.

Brighton Festival, Brighton, south-east England

3 – 25 May 2025

Brighton is known as a place that welcomes diversity, creativity and innovative thinking, and its annual festival celebrates this pioneering spirit and experimental approach. Established in 1967 and now one of Europe’s leading arts festivals, this celebration of music, theatre, dance, circus, art, film, literature, debate and family events aims to make art accessible to all and takes place in a variety of venues across Brighton and Hove.

Highland Games, across Scotland

11 May – 14 September 2025 

Around 100 Highland games and gatherings take place in Scotland each year. Each one has a mix of piping, athletic events and Highland dancing. 

The Emirates FA Cup Final, Wembley Stadium, London, England 

17 May 2025

The FA Cup, the oldest domestic cup competition in the football world, is established as one of the country’s great sporting institutions. The history and tradition of the competition, and the pageantry of the Cup Final, is familiar to millions. 

Women’s FA Cup Final, Wembley Stadium, London, England

18 May 2025

The Adobe Women’s FA Cup Final returns to Wembley and will see two teams battle it out for the coveted trophy.

RHS Chelsea Flower Show, London, England

20 – 24 May 2025

One of the best-known Royal Horticultural Society shows, the world-famous Chelsea Flower Show returns with even more unforgettable floral and horticultural displays.

Hay Festival of Literature & Arts, Brecon Beacons, south Wales

22 May – 1 June 2025

The renowned Hay Festival of Literature & Arts, held annually in a tented village on the edge of the Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog) National Park, aims to bring together some of the greatest contemporary authors and the most exciting new voices in literature and the arts. Past speakers and performers have included Margaret Atwood, Ian McEwan, Chelsea Clinton, Michael Woolf, Stormzy, Dua Lipa, Simon Schama, David Olusoga, Rose McGowan, Dara Ó Briain and many more.

Birmingham Pride, Birmingham, central England

24 – 25 May 2025

The second largest city in England hosts its annual gay Pride, a technicolour spectacular celebration of LGBTQIA+ culture. 

Blenheim Palace Food Festival, Oxfordshire, central England

24 – 26 May 2025

Oxfordshire’s largest food festival brings food stalls, strolling jazz musicians, children’s storytellers and some of the biggest names in the foodie world to Blenheim Palace’s magnificent grounds. Chef Raymond Blanc OBE and MasterChef winners have attended in the past.

RideLondon, London-Essex, south-east England

25 May 2025

Developed by the then-Mayor of London and his agencies in 2013, Ford RideLondon is a world-class festival of cycling that wants to encourage more people to cycle more safely, more often. Transport for London (TfL) anticipates tens of thousands of spectators and participants every year will take up regular cycling after each event. There is no other closed-road event quite like it, combining a fun and accessible free family ride in central London with the excitement of watching the world’s best professional cyclists race. 

Urdd Eisteddfod, Margam Park, south Wales

26 – 31 May 2025

The Urdd Eisteddfod is one of Europe’s largest youth touring festivals, with children and young people competing in various competitions such as singing, dancing and performing. There are plenty of attractions for the whole family at the Eisteddfod, from enjoying the competitions to visiting the various stalls and exhibitors on site.

Cheltenham Science Festival, Gloucestershire, south-west England

3 – 8 June 2025

Learn from some of the best scientific minds from Britain and beyond in this interactive celebration of knowledge that’s fun for all the family. Events are centered around one of the Regency town’s picturesque park, Imperial Gardens.

Betfred Derby Festival, Epsom Downs Racecourse, Surrey, south-east England

6 – 7 June 2025

The world’s most famous flat race will see riders and owners in pursuit of one of the richest prizes in British racing on 7 June, with the famous Ladies Day held the day before on 6 June.

Round the Island Race, Isle of Wight, southern England

7 June 2025

An annual one-day yacht race around the Isle of Wight, usually attracting more than 1,700 boats and around 16,000 sailors, making it one of the largest yacht races in the world. Competitors come from all over the world and follow the 50 nautical mile course, which starts and finishes in Cowes.  

Liverpool Biennial, Liverpool, north-west England

7 June – 14 September 2025

Join Britain’s largest free celebration of contemporary visual art, taking over Liverpool’s public spaces, galleries and museums. Since being founded over 25 years ago, Liverpool Biennial has commissioned 392 new artworks, including some which have found a permanent home in the city.

Whole Earth Man v Horse Marathon, Llanwrtyd Wells, mid Wales

14 June 2025

The Man versus Horse Marathon is an annual 22-mile (35km) race, where runners compete against riders on horseback, in the Welsh town of Llanwrtyd Wells. The event started in 1980 after a pub landlord overheard two customers debating the positives and negatives of men and horses competing over rough land, but it wasn’t until 2004 that a man beat a horse.

Trooping the Colour, London, England

14 June 2025

Trooping the Colour is the annual celebration of the sovereign’s official birthday. It’s a colourful display of military pageantry featuring impressive soldiers on parade in ceremonial uniform, as well as horses and musicians. The Royal Family always attend the ceremony, which takes place on Horse Guards Parade behind Whitehall, London.

Royal Ascot, Berkshire, south-east England

17 – 21 June 2025

Royal Ascot has established itself as a national institution and a major focus of the British social calendar, as well as being the ultimate stage for the best racehorses in the world. Tradition, pageantry, fashion and style all mix together, as well as around 30 races over five days.

Stonehenge Summer Solstice, Wiltshire, south-west England

18 – 22 June 2025

Every year visitors from around the world gather at Stonehenge overnight to celebrate the summer solstice and watch the sun rise over the stones. Taking place on 21 June, it’s the most important day of the year at Stonehenge and a truly magical time to visit. There’s a four-day festival to mark the occasion, with the celebration bringing together England’s New Age tribes (neo-druids, neo-pagans and Wiccans) with ordinary families, tourists, travellers and party people. 

Isle of Wight Festival, Isle of Wight, southern England

19 – 22 June 2025

This popular music festival on the famous island situated off the south coast of England has an impressive musical heritage stretching back to Bob Dylan (who performed here in 1969) and Jimi Hendrix (who took to the stage in 1970). Recent headliners have included Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, Kasabian and Lewis Capaldi.

The Royal Highland Show, Edinburgh, north-east Scotland

19 – 22 June 2025

One of Scotland’s most iconic events, the Royal Highland Show is a major highlight of the Scottish country calendar and firmly established as one of Europe’s most impressive celebrations of farming, food and rural life. 

Pride Cymru, Cardiff, south Wales

21 – 22 June 2025

LGBTQIA+ Mardi Gras, trading as Pride Cymru, returns to Cardiff for Wales’ biggest celebration of equality and diversity. The variety of entertainment will continue along with a funfair, a cultural market with arts and crafts, plenty of food and drink, and a social hub, offering advice and support to LGBTQIA+ communities and their friends and family.

Jane Austen Regency Week, Hampshire, southern England

21 – 29 June 2025

This nine-day festival is packed with all things Austen. It takes place in and around the market town of Alton and nearby Chawton, the home of Jane Austen’s House. Expect Regency-style music, dining, drama, singing, talks and guided walks and tours, as well as the famous Regency Ball. 2025 marks the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth, so there’s no better time to join the celebrations.

Glastonbury Festival, Somerset, south-west England 

25 – 29 June 2025

The world descends on Worthy Farm every summer for one of the summer’s most magical festivals. With a list of past headliners which reads like a who’s-who of the music world, Glastonbury also celebrates comedy, dance, theatre and other art forms.  

Bristol Pride, Bristol, south-west England

28 June – 13 July 2025

Bristol Pride is a week-long series of events dedicated to the city’s LGBTQIA+ community ­to spread the message of love and equality for all. The week’s highlight is a Pride Parade through the city on 12 July as part of a colourful outdoor music and arts celebration. Entertainment includes a funfair, market stalls, bars and a Community Area.

Wimbledon Tennis Championships, London, England

30 June – 13 July 2025

Arguably the most famous tennis tournament in the world, the Wimbledon Championships have been played since 1877 and tickets are always in fierce demand. The championships lasts approximately two weeks, or until all events are complete. The club operates a public ballot (lottery) for advanced sales of Centre, No. 1 and No. 2 court tickets. 

Taste of London Festival, London, England

2025 TBC

Every year Regent’s Park transforms into a foodie wonderland for four days of summer eating, drinking and entertainment. Past years saw around 40 of the city’s best restaurants dish up their finest dishes for the ultimate alfresco feast, while 200 producers provide a bounty of the best food and beverages from Britain and around the world. 

West End Live, London, England

2025 TBC

Get ready to sing and dance the weekend away at Europe’s largest free musical theatre festival. Some of the West End’s biggest shows will take to the stage – past performers include the casts of Mamma Mia, Les Misérables and Six.

RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival, Surrey, south-east England

1 – 6 July 2025

As the world’s largest annual flower show it’s a plant lover’s paradise, and is packed with stunning show gardens, floral displays, and plenty of garden inspiration. The show will move to the historic grounds of the Badminton Estate in 2026, before returning to Hampton Court Palace in 2027. 

Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod, north Wales

2 – 7 July 2025

One of the highlights of the Welsh festival season, this celebration of music and culture welcomes competitiors from 26 different countries to the idyllic riverside town of Llangollen. Don’t miss the array of colourful costumes brightening up the Welsh summertime!

Formula 1 British Grand Prix, Silverstone, central England

3 – 6 July 2025

The jewel in the crown of British motorsports, Silverstone is a fast circuit with a series of complex high-speed turns, and a short straight to add to the excitement. Average cornering speeds are higher than at any other championship racetrack. 

Manchester International Festival, Manchester, north-west England

3 – 20 July 2025

Held every two years, this boundary-pushing festival takes visitors to the cutting edge of the arts. Watch with wonder as some of the planet’s greatest artists create, display and perform ground-breaking new works.

Wales Airshow, Swansea, south Wales

5 – 6 July 2025

The show is visible along the entire five-mile (eight-kilometre) stretch of Swansea Bay with spectacular views of the air displays that feature some of the world’s best military and civilian aviation display teams. In previous years, ground attractions have included an interactive military village, trade stands, children’s entertainment, funfair and lots more.

London Pride, London, England

5 July 2025

London hosts a huge party in the summer with Pride in London celebrating all aspects of the LGBTQIA+ community. The festival usually comes to a close with a sizzling carnival of colour, featuring music, floats and dancing.

Alice’s Day, Oxford, south-east England

5 July 2025

Each year on the first Saturday of July, Mad Hatters can join the annual festivities celebrating Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland in Oxford. Dress up as your favourite characters at The Story Museum, take a walk through the story’s history and explore the highlights of the city that inspired Lewis Carroll’s classic children’s tale.

Parallel Windsor, Windsor, south-east England

6 July 2025

This inclusive summer sporting event and festival in Windsor Great Park features challenge events for all ages and abilities. ‘Start together, finish whenever’ is the motto – choose from distances between 100m and 10K, with no cut-off times. The wider festival offers heaps of activities, from yoga to comedy and even an animal kingdom.

Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival, Edinburgh, north-east Scotland

11 – 20 July 2025

Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival plays host to some of the finest jazz and blues talent from all corners of the globe. From bop to boogie-woogie to blues-rock, and from samba to swing to soul, the festival takes place over 10 groove-packed summer days.

Buckingham Palace Summer Opening, London, England

10 July – 28 September 2025

Explore the palace’s lavishly furnished State Rooms – where the King and members of the Royal Family receive and entertain guests on state, ceremonial and official occasions – and admire some of the greatest treasures from the Royal Collection.

The Open Championship, Country Antrim, Northern Ireland

13 – 20 July 2025

The major golf championship, often referred to as The Open or the British Open, will return to Northern Ireland for the first time since 2019 as Royal Portrush Golf Club hosts the 153rd edition of the prestigious event. 

Plan your trip to The 153rd Open

RHS Flower Show, Wentworth Woodhouse, South Yorkshire, northern England

16 – 20 July 2025

From 2025, RHS Flower Show Tatton Park will return to the Cheshire estate every three years (next in 2027). In 2025, an RHS Show will be held at South Yorkshire’s vast Wentworth Woodhouse, while a 2026 RHS Show will be hosted at the Royal Estate of Sandringham in Norfolk. Expect stunning show gardens, floral displays, and plenty of green-fingered inspiration.

Camp Good Life, Flintshire, north Wales

18 July – 4 August 2025

The Good Life combines the very best of music, books, food and the great outdoors. The Summer Camp (held within Hawarden Castle’s walled garden) spans three long summer weekends and gives guests the chance to learn new skills and hear inspiring talks from experts in the heart of nature.

Bristol Harbour Festival, Bristol, south-west England

18 – 20 July 2025

Bristol Harbour Festival will once again host a free weekend of music, markets and maritime fun based around Bristol’s historic harbourside. Previous festivals have been packed with live performance, artists, musicians, circus acts, children’s events, dancers, food markets and street stalls. On the water, hundreds of sailing vessels provide a vibrant backdrop to the activities.

Birmingham Mela, central England

19 – 20 July 2025

The UK’s biggest South Asian music festival extravaganza features 150 artists from Birmingham to Bangladesh, with live music and dance, deliciously diverse world cuisine and bustling shopping bazaars. 

Kynren, Auckland Castle, County Durham, north-east England

19 July – 13 September 2025

During the summer, Auckland Castle will host Kynren – the movie-like open-air night spectacular. The show takes its audience on a 90-minute journey of epic storytelling, using pyrotechnics, lighting, and stunning effects across a seven-and-a-half acre stage.

The BBC Proms, Royal Albert Hall, London, England

18 July – 13 September 2025

The Proms is an eight-week summer season of daily orchestral classical music concerts and other events held annually, predominantly in the Royal Albert Hall. Founded in 1895, each season traditionally consists of more than 70 concerts, with a wide range of classical music to choose from, at affordable prices, in an informal atmosphere. The famous Last Night performances include BBC Proms in the Park. 

Leeds Pride, Yorkshire, northern England

20 July 2025

A ‘must-not-miss’ event on Yorkshire’s LGBTQIA+ calendar, Leeds Pride is the biggest event of its kind in Yorkshire. Past years have seen the city burst to life with a diverse line up of acts at Millennium Square, a march through the centre of Leeds and the biggest parties until the early hours.

The Royal Welsh Show, Llanelwedd, Powys, mid Wales

21 – 24 July 2025

A major event in the British agricultural calendar, the Royal Welsh Show consists of four days of livestock competitions and a wide range of activities including forestry, horticulture, crafts, entertainment, attractions, displays, countryside sports, and shopping. 

Qatar ‘Glorious Goodwood’ Festival, West Sussex, south-east England

29 July – 2 August 2025

Enjoy picnics, evening jazz and famous faces alongside flat racing at this small and sophisticated horse racing event held every year at the course owned by the Earl of March on his country estate near Chichester.

Camp Bestival, Lulworth Castle, Dorset, south-west England

31 July – 3 August 2025

Camp Bestival consists of four family-friendly days of live music and premier DJs and is one of Britain’s most colourful festivals, with dressing up encouraged and even a roller disco. Last year saw the likes of Paloma Faith and McFly take the stage.

Northern Pride, Newcastle, north-east England

2025 TBC

This annual celebration of LGBTQIA+ life on Tyneside is one of the biggest and most diverse free events in the North East. It starts with a Pride march through Newcastle and ends with a day of music, education, fun and celebration.

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, Edinburgh, north-east Scotland

1 – 23 August 2025

The Tattoo is an iconic Edinburgh institution, with music, dance and precision displays with the Massed Pipes and Drums, the Massed Military Bands, cultural troupes, singers and the poignant refrain of the Lone Piper against the stunning backdrop of Edinburgh Castle. Each year’s Tattoo is very much a ‘global gathering’ – showcasing the talents of musicians and performers from every corner of the globe. Each Tattoo is different from the last and always embraces different themes; nature, creativity and Scotland’s homecoming are just some of the concepts explored in recent times.

Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Edinburgh, north-east Scotland

1 – 25 August 2025

The world’s largest arts festival transforms Scotland’s capital every August, as thousands of performers take to hundreds of stages all over the city to present shows of all kinds and for every taste. The work on show ranges from huge names in the world of entertainment to unknown artists looking to build their careers. Audiences can enjoy theatre, comedy, dance, circus, cabaret, children’s shows, physical theatre, musicals, opera, music, spoken word, exhibitions and events.

Brighton Pride, Brighton, south-east England  

2 – 3 August 2025

Brighton’s Pride festival kicks off with the annual Pride Community Parade, a dazzling visual spectacle that sees Brighton and Hove’s diverse community take to the streets in a show of unity and equality. The party carries on with Fabuloso in the Park, featuring main stage entertainment from major artists, with previous years hosting acts including Britney Spears, Kylie Minogue and Jess Glynne. Other entertainment has included dance tents, cabaret, a funfair, a family area and a market. The Pride Village Party brings the festivities to St James Street and there’s also the city’s iconic seafront Marine Parade, not to mention a vibrant mix of comedy and performance at Pride at the Ironworks.

Cowes Week, Isle of Wight, southern England

2 – 8 August 2025

As one of the sailing calendar’s biggest events, Cowes Week brings together the world’s biggest sailing stars, with more than 1,000 yachts and 8,000 competitors taking part. 

Wrexham (Wrecsam) National Eisteddfod, north Wales

2 – 9 August 2025

An annual travelling cultural festival celebrating Wales and the Welsh language. Expect over 250 traders and stalls, alongside showcases of music, dance, spoken-word, visual arts and more.

Edinburgh Art Festival, Edinburgh, north-east Scotland 

7 – 24 August 2025

Britain’s largest annual celebration of visual art, Edinburgh Art Festival attracts a diverse and vibrant programme of exhibitions and events at the city’s galleries and museums. 

Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, Bristol, south-west England

8 – 10 August 2025

The city’s largest outdoor event, held annually at the city’s Ashton Court Estate, is the largest fiesta of its kind in Europe. The mass ascents at dawn and teatime are a sight to behold, with more than 100 balloons taking off, and after-dark firework shows to follow. The fiesta offers a packed three days of fun for the whole family.

Edinburgh International Book Festival, Edinburgh, north-east Scotland

9 – 24 August 2025

The Edinburgh International Book Festival programme offers more than 800 events featuring everyone from the rising stars of fiction to Nobel Prize-winners, plus events for children and young adults showcasing the finest writers and illustrators for young people. From author events and interactive workshops to lively debates and book signings, the Book Festival allows visitors to meet favourite authors.

Creamfields, Daresbury, north-west England

21 – 24 August 2025

Regarded as an iconic dance music festival, every year this legendary event near Warrington showcases superstar DJs and artists from the music genres of EDM, house, trance, drum and bass and grime.

Reading Festival & Leeds Festival, England

21 – 24 August 2025

This ever-popular festival features global acts uniquely performing at both locations over three days, usually allowing for 100,000 revellers at Reading and more than 80,000 at Leeds to experience global music superstars. 

Notting Hill Carnival, London, England

24 – 25 August 2025

London’s famous free Caribbean festival is the largest street party in Europe, with great music, outrageous floats and fabulous costumes. Hear everything from traditional steel bands, soca and calypso to the latest dub, drum ‘n’ bass, R&B and reggae blasting out from sound systems and moving floats. Live stages also feature local bands, top international artists and sounds from around the world, plus hundreds of Caribbean food stalls.

World Bog Snorkelling Championships, Llanwrtyd Wells, mid Wales

24 August 2025

This unusual sport consists of contestants swimming two consecutive lengths of a water-filled trench in the shortest time possible. Held annually in Llanwrtyd Wells in mid Wales, the championships attract visitors from all over the world. There are food and drink stalls, crafts, live music and a real ale and cider bar on the site, so it’s a great day out even if you don’t fancy taking the plunge.

Blackpool Illuminations, Lancashire, north-west England

2025 TBC

This annual light show has been a major part of Blackpool’s appeal since 1879. The Festival of Light complements the traditional Illuminations with a contemporary take on entertainment made from light and art. The Illuminations are kicked off by a fantastic celebrity-packed Switch-on Festival Weekend with bespoke Illumination performances. Lightpool Festival, a spectacular walking route linking Blackpool’s most iconic buildings and history through light installation artworks, takes place in October. 

Greenwich+Docklands International Festival, London, England

2025 TBC

As one of the UK’s leading festivals of free outdoor theatre and performing arts, Greenwich+Docklands International Festival (GDIF) showcases culture through creative performances, dazzling light shows and dramatic dances – find the rhythm and celebrate the arts and diversity in Greenwich.

The Braemar Gathering, Aberdeenshire, northern Scotland

6 September 2025

Enjoy the skills of the pipers and Highland dancers and the stamina of the hill runners, as well as the international athletes taking part in the heavy events. Sample contemporary Scotland with live music, top-quality arts and crafts and local food and drink at one of the Royal Family’s favourite annual events. 

Great North Run, NewcastleGateshead, north-east England

7 September 2025

A series of professional and junior athletics activities for the Great North Run has been developed over the last few years. The run starts in the city centre, winds past several iconic sights, and ends at the sea.

British Science Festival, Liverpool, north-west England

10 – 14 September 2025

Organised each year by the British Science Association, the British Science Festival shines a light on Britain’s top scientists. The festival lasts five days and past events have ranged from lectures and debates for adults, to hands-on activity for schools and families, to comedy, theatre and expeditions.

Heritage Open Days, across England 

12 – 21 September 2025

Heritage Open Days celebrates England’s fantastic architecture and culture by offering free access to places that are usually closed to the public or normally charge for admission. Every year in September buildings of every age, style and function throw open their doors. It is a once-a-year chance to discover architectural treasures and enjoy a wide range of tours, events and activities that bring local history and culture to life.

Roald Dahl Day, Great Missenden, Buckinghamshire, south-east England

13 September 2025

The official Roald Dahl Day takes place every year on the storyteller’s birthday, 13 September. A number of activities and events take place at the Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre in his home village of Great Missenden. 

Jane Austen Festival, Bath, south-west England

12 – 21 September 2025

Visit Bath during the annual Jane Austen Festival for an immersive Regency experience. Walk alongside other Jane Austen fans in the spectacular opening Grand Regency Costumed Promenade. Past events have included elegant guided walks and day trips, intriguing talks, music recitals and concerts, as well as workshops and dance classes.

London Design Festival, London, England

13 – 21 September 2025

This colourful annual festival has celebrated and promoted London as the design capital of the world since 2003. The festival showcases the work of contemporary designers, architects and artists, with striking large-scale installations and events popping up around the city.

Last Night of the Proms & BBC Proms in the Park, Royal Albert Hall & Hyde Park, London

18 July – 13 September 2025

For a very British cultural experience, don’t miss the final night crescendo of the biggest classical music festival on earth, the BBC Proms. The legendary Last Night of the Proms is the culmination of an eight-week summer season of daily orchestral and classical music concerts taking place across London. Last Night of the Proms tickets are very popular, so plan ahead. The celebrations include BBC Proms in the Park, which take place in London’s Hyde Park. 

Open House Festival, London, England

13 – 21 September 2025

Celebrate London’s architecture, housing and neighbourhoods during a two-week festival spanning the breadth of the city from Greenwich to Westminster. Gain access to beautiful buildings, unique spaces and landscapes as London opens its doors to visitors. 

London Fashion Week, London, England

18 – 22 September 2025

The ultimate fashion industry event, where the world’s top designers showcase their latest collections in catwalk shows, plus curated talks, designer shopping and trend presentations. 

York Food and Drink Festival, York, northern England

19 – 28 September 2025

One of the biggest foodie festivals in Britain, York Food and Drink Festival celebrates the best local and regional food and drink. Past years have hosted a great variety of day and evening events, from wine and food tastings to cookery demonstrations and hands-on workshops in some of the city’s iconic historic buildings.

Ironman Wales, Pembrokeshire, west Wales

21 September 2025

A spectacular course, often called one of the most challenging races in the world, that takes in stunning beaches and medieval fortresses.

Cardiff Half Marathon, Cardiff, south Wales

5 October 2025

Competitors race right through Cardiff city centre past iconic locations, with beautiful scenery and historic buildings, starting at Cardiff Castle, and passing the Principality Stadium and Penarth Marina. Then it’s across the Cardiff Barrage and through Cardiff Bay, before finishing close to Cardiff City Hall.

Cheltenham Literature Festival, Gloucestershire, south-west England

10 – 19 October 2025

This literary festival will celebrate its 75th anniversary in 2024 and will see the launch of major books, as well as talks, workshops and performances touching upon subjects as diverse as history, politics, sport, food and fashion. 

World Conker Championships, Northamptonshire, central England

12 October 2025

The game of conkers has been a popular pastime of British schoolchildren for decades. The rules are simple. Each player is given a conker attached to a piece of string and takes turns in trying to break their opponent’s nut using a swinging motion. The World Conker Championships are held on the village green in Southwick near Oundle, Peterborough, with many attempting to become the king or queen of conkers. 

Iris Prize Festival, Cardiff, south Wales

13 – 19 October 2025

A six-day celebration of LGBTQIA+ film, including screenings of a series of short films competing for the Best British Iris Prize.
 

Artes Mundi, Cardiff, south Wales

17 October 2025 – 22 February 2026 

Best known for its biennial international exhibition and prize, which takes place in venues across Wales, this is one of nation’s biggest contemporary visual art shows. The UK’s largest art prize of £40,000 is awarded to one of the shortlisted artists. 

BFI London Film Festival, BFI Southbank, London, England

2025 TBC

In 2024 London will host its 68th annual film festival organised with the British Film Institute. Past events have screened more than 300 films, documentaries and shorts in the capital from around 50 countries, with highlights including the world’s best new films, and director and actor retrospectives. Previous A-list guests have included Nicole Kidman, Amy Adams, Casey Affleck, Sigourney Weaver, Liam Neeson, and director Tom Ford.

FilmBath Festival, Bath, south-west England

2025 TBC

Soak up the special atmosphere of packed auditoriums as you enjoy screenings of previews, documentary features, F-Rated films (awarded to films directed by and/or written by women) and talks with directors, producers and stars.

Bonfire Night, Britain-wide

5 November 2025

Britain’s night skies light up with blazing bonfires and sparkling fireworks to celebrate Guy Fawkes Night. This unique British tradition, also known as Guy Fawkes Day, Bonfire Night or Fireworks Night, celebrates the foiling of the infamous Gunpowder Plot – a plan to blow up the Houses of Parliament on 5 November 1605. It’s celebrated across Britain and most towns and cities host their own bonfire night celebrations.

Leeds International Film Festival, Yorkshire, northern England

6 – 23 November 2025

One of the largest film events in the UK, Leeds International Film Festival presents an incredible selection of the best new and classic films from around the world. Each year, audiences are invited to step in from the cold autumn weather and enjoy the power of cinema at some of the city’s favourite venues, including the Hyde Park Picture House and Everyman Leeds.

Christmas at Kew, London, England

14 November 2025 – 4 January 2026

Get into the spirit of Christmas against the picturesque background of Kew Gardens, which delivers a sparkling after-dark experience and a truly festive atmosphere every year. Previous highlights include a Fire Garden, towering fairy-lit trees and the spellbinding Palm House light display.

London Jazz Festival, London, England

14 – 23 November 2025

London Jazz Festival hosts world-class artists and emerging stars, packed into back-to-back concerts, workshops, talks, masterclasses and free events across London. A number of key events will take place at the Southbank Centre. 

Kendal Mountain Festival, Cumbria, north-west England

20 – 23 November 2025

The world’s biggest mountain festival is a celebration of film, outdoor sports, literature, art and legends that hopes to inspire people to explore and enjoy mountains and the wilderness. The Mountain Film Competition is a main feature of the event, with entries competing to be the grand prize winner.

St Andrew’s Day, across Scotland

30 November 2025

Events celebrating the patron saint of Scotland, St Andrew, take place throughout the country. In the past, they have included some of Scotland’s historic attractions offering free entry for the day.

Longleat Festival of Light, Wiltshire, south-west England

2025 TBC

This outdoor light festival boasts hundreds of illuminated characters and scenes that transform the estate into a winter wonderland; with each year boasting a new theme. This season marks the event’s 10th anniversary and the theme for the impressive displays will be ‘Journey through time’.  

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, London, England

2025 TBC

A true family favourite, Winter Wonderland returns to London’s Hyde Park with big top shows, the observation wheel and a huge Christmas market. As well as the ice rink, Winter Wonderland includes gentle rides for younger children.

Hogmanay, across Scotland

2025 TBC

Hogmanay is what the Scots call New Year’s Eve and the arrival of the New Year is always celebrated in style across the country. Fireworks, open-air concerts and street parties make Hogmanay Scotland’s biggest party of the year.

NewcastleGateshead New Year’s Eve Winter Carnival, NewcastleGateshead, north-east England

2025 TBC

The annual New Year’s Eve Winter Carnival sees the Newcastle Ice Queen and her entourage of local community participants parading through the streets of Newcastle, culminating in an early-evening fireworks display.