The United Kingdom is a vibrant and culturally diverse country that offers a wide range of events and attractions for visitors throughout the year. From historic landmarks to contemporary festivals, there is something to suit every taste and interest. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a sports fan, a music lover, or someone who appreciates traditional festivities, the UK has plenty to offer.
Experience the magic of winter in the UK. The weather may be chilly but there's still plenty of fun to be had, so wrap up warm and get exploring. From festive Christmas markets to New Years celebrations, and even more seasonal events, there's so much to enjoy.
Markets pop up across the UK to mark the festive season, giving you the perfect opportunity to find that special something amongst a treasure trove of unique gifts, crafts, and trinkets.
And the fun doesn't stop at shopping, with many markets offering live entertainment, tasty food (and warming mulled wine!) and even funfair rides amongst the festive atmosphere.
London's Hyde Park transforms in the holidays, into one the UK's most well-known festive events. Enjoy everything from adrenaline-fuelled rides to live performances and street food at this winter paradise.
So bundle up, grab a cup of hot chocolate, and get ready to be transported to a winter paradise at Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park., and you'll leave filled with the magic and warmth of the holiday season. This event does get busy, so advance booking is recommended.
Scotland's renowned New Year's celebration in Edinburgh is a sight to behold, boasting a magnificent display of fireworks, live music, and lively street parties that invite everyone to partake in the festivities.
A cherished Hogmanay tradition is the custom of "first-footing," which involves being the first person to enter a home after midnight. It is believed that the first footer brings good fortune for the coming year, and it is customary to bring symbolic gifts such as coal, shortbread, or whisky to share with the household.
Celebrate the start of the year in an unforgettable way by joining the vibrant New Year's Day Parade in London.
It's a truly amazing show filled with colorful floats, fantastic marching bands, and captivating performances that bring the city to life with excitement and joy. As you find your spot along the streets, you'll be carried away by the lively atmosphere.
If you have a passion for beer or cider, then now's the time to mark your calendar for a truly fantastic experience.
With a wide variety of styles and flavors to choose from, you'll have the opportunity to discover new favorites and indulge in the rich diversity of craft beverages on offer. And let's not forget about the food! You'll find a range of tasty options to complement your drink choices.
Celebrate the life and works of Scottish poet Robert Burns on Burns Night, which falls on January 25th.
Traditional Scottish suppers, including haggis, poetry readings, and lively ceilidh dances, take place across the country, but particularly in Scotland. Burns Night is a time to gather, connect, and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Scottish culture.
This international rugby tournament showcases the fierce competition between six European nations: England, France, Ireland, Italy, Scotland, and Wales.
The tournament takes place over several weeks, with each team playing against all the others, both home and away. The intense rivalries and historic matchups between these nations create an electric atmosphere
Bringing together film lovers and filmmakers each year for a vibrant, cinematic celebration, this exciting and inclusive festival celebrates film in all its forms.
Taking place across Glasgow's coolest venues, the festival offers everything from blockbuster premieres to indie gems, and hidden international treasures. Beyond just screenings, it's a full-on experience, with Q&As, parties, and unique events like pop-up screenings around the city.
Whether you're a self-confessed cinephile or just up for discovering something new, enjoy the buzz of a the crowd at Glasgow Film Festival.
This is a prominent event in the fashion calendar, showcasing the latest trends and designs from renowned British and international fashion designers.
Street style during London Fashion Week is a spectacle of its own. Fashion-forward individuals and influencers showcase their unique and daring outfits, becoming trendsetters in their own right. The streets of London become a runway, reflecting the diverse and dynamic fashion scene of the city.
Chinese New Year
This joyful festival falls on the second new moon after the winter solstice (meaning that it typically occurs at the end of Janary, or in early February). Celebrations in London are the largest of their kind outside Asia, and take place across Trafalgar Square, Chinatown, and the West End. And you can still be part of the celebrations elsewhere in the UK, with cities such as Manchester, Liverpool and Glasgow also hosting their own events to mark the occasion.
Spring in the UK brings a burst of events that celebrate the season's arrival. From flower shows to festivals, and thrilling sports events to celebrating Pride, you're sure to find something to get excited about.
Also known as Dydd Gŵyl Dewi Sant in Welsh, this is the national day of Wales, dedicated to celebrating the country's patron saint, Saint David.
It is marked by various festivities and traditions. Many people wear daffodils or leeks, which are the national symbols of Wales, as a way to show their Welsh pride. Festivities include parades, concerts, and traditional dances.
The festival is an annual event. The highlight is the Cheltenham Gold Cup, a prestigious steeplechase race considered one of the most important in the National Hunt calendar.
The event is held over four days and showcases some of the finest racehorses, jockeys, and trainers competing for the coveted title. It's not only about the races; it's also a social and cultural event.
Celebrated throughout the UK, but particularly in cities like London, Birmingham, and Manchester, St. Patrick's Day honors the patron saint of Ireland.
Festivities include parades, live music performances, traditional dancing, and the opportunity to enjoy Irish food and drink. Green is closely associated with St. Patrick's Day, and many people will be wearing green clothing and accessories.
This historic rowing race takes place on the River Thames in London between the rowing teams of the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge.
The course stretches approximately 4.2 miles (6.8 kilometers) along the Thames, starting from Putney and ending at Mortlake. Thousands of spectators line the riverbanks to watch this thrilling competition. Oars away!
The London Marathon was first held on March 29, 1981. It was inspired by the New York City Marathon and the organisers wanted to bring a similar event to London.
Since then, it has grown in popularity and is now considered one of the major marathons globally. It attracts thousands of participants from across the world who converge on the streets of London, while enthusiastic spectators fill the route, offering their unwavering support and cheers.
St. George's Day, a cherished tradition celebrated annually on April 23rd in England, holds great significance as it serves to commemorate the country's patron saint.
It is not a public holiday, but it is often marked with various events, parades, and festivities to honor England's national saint.
One of the most eagerly awaited and renowned cultural events in the United Kingdom, this is a celebration that spans over several weeks.
The events take place in theatres, galleries, concert halls, and outdoor spaces. The program usually includes performances, exhibitions, workshops, talks, and family-friendly events, offering something for everyone to enjoy.
The city comes alive during Pride, where the people of Birmingham and beyond spend a weekend celebrating love.
The parade usually starts from Victoria Square and makes its way through the city center, attracting a large number of spectators and participants along the way. After the parade, the festivities continue with live music performances, dance stages, community stalls, food and drink vendors, and a fun-filled carnival atmosphere.
Held in the city of Bath (you may recognise a few spots from Bridgerton!) this multi-arts festival showcases music, literature and art.
Enjoy a variety of music genres, including classical, jazz, folk, and contemporary music. Renowned musicians and emerging artists from around the world often hold performances at various venues in Bath, such as the Bath Abbey, Assembly Rooms, and the Forum.
The show has a long history dating back to 1862 when it was known as the Royal Horticultural Society's Great Spring Show.
It has been held almost every year since then, except for a few breaks during wartime. The show takes place in the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea, located in the Chelsea neighborhood of London. It is typically held over five days in late May, with the exact dates varying each year.
This exciting season welcomes in renowned music festivals (Glastonbury, anyone?) where global music lovers unite, as well as sports extravaganzas ranging from Wimbledon to the British Grand Prix.
Held in Regent's Park, London, Taste of London is a food festival that showcases the city's vibrant culinary scene.
You will have the opportunity to sample a wide variety of dishes and drinks from participating restaurants and vendors. These offerings often represent a diverse range of cuisines, including British, international, and fusion flavors. It's a chance to experience the culinary talents of renowned chefs and discover new and exciting tastes.
Get ready to unleash your inner music fanatic and immerse yourself in the incredible world of Glastonbury!
This larger-than-life extravaganza of music, art, and culture is a playground for the wild at heart. Remember, as your favorite artists take the stage and the music fills the air, this is your time to let loose, dance like nobody's watching, and have an all-round epic adventure.
Each day begins with the Royal Procession, where members of the British royal family arrive in horse-drawn carriages.
This provides a regal start to the day's events at Royal Ascot, a horse racing event that has become a centrepiece of the British social calendar capturing the essence of British heritage and elegance. It is a must-attend event for racing enthusiasts, fashion aficionados (particularly on Ladies Day, where there's no such thing as overdressing!), and those seeking a unique and memorable experience.
Start your engines and buckle up for the ride of a lifetime at the highly anticipated and adrenaline-fueled event.
This is not just any ordinary race; it's a spectacular display of speed, skill, and sheer determination that brings together the best drivers in the world to battle it out on one of the most iconic and challenging circuits in motorsport history. From the moment you step foot in the paddock, you'll be surrounded by the sights, sounds, and smells of the racing excellence. Get up close and personal with the teams, experience the buzz of the pit lane, and catch a glimpse of the cutting-edge technology behind these incredible racing machines.
Game, set, and match! Get ready for the grandest showdown in tennis at the legendary Wimbledon tournament.
The All England Law Tennis Club is a setting where history is made, champions rise, and strawberries and cream reign supreme! Whether you're a lifelong tennis fan or simply enjoy the thrill of sporting events, Wimbledon is an experience like no other. It combines the grace of the players, the grandeur of the setting, and the collective passion of the crowd into a two-week extravaganza.
Ahoy, mateys! Prepare to set sail on a nautical adventure at the exhilarating Cowes Week.
This regatta brings together a fleet of sailboats, a sea of passionate sailors, and a harbour filled with infectious excitement. So grab your binoculars, don your sailor's hat, and join the cheering crowds as Cowes Week unfurls its sails of excitement and adventure. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or simply captivated by the sea, this regatta promises a maritime experience that will leave you with memories to treasure.
Scotland's capital city comes alive during Fringe, the world's largest performance arts festival.
Performances span comedy shows, theatre productions, dance performances, musical acts, spoken word performances, and much more. Artists and performers take to venues across the city, from traditional theatres to makeshift spaces and street corners, to share their talents and connect with audiences. So, grab a program, take a leap into the unknown, and enjoy!
Notting Hill Carnival is a two-day extravaganza that takes place over the August Bank Holiday weekend.
The streets come alive with the rhythms of calypso, reggae, soca, and other Caribbean music genres, filling the air with infectious energy. Sound systems, live bands, and performers create infectious sounds that invite everyone to dance and embrace the vibrant spirit of the carnival. Put on your most colorful outfit and immerse yourself in a vibrant celebration of culture and community.
Beatleweek is a multi-day event that brings together Beatles fans from all over the world.
Prepare to immerse yourself in a splendid assortment of activities, performances, and experiences that pay a heartfelt tribute to the Fab Four. From electrifying live music to captivating special events, this festival is a grand immersion into the mesmerizing world of John, Paul, George, and Ringo. Grab your Beatles memorabilia, unleash your inner rockstar singing "Hey Jude" at the top of your lungs, and dive headfirst into the enthralling universe of Beatleweek. Join in the jubilation as this festival celebrates the timeless music and enduring legacy of the greatest band in history.
As the weather cools and the leaves turn brown, the UK gets ready to host a range of events. Wherever you find yourself, there's something fun and exciting to explore.
As the lights dim and the renowned orchestras take the stage, get ready to embark on a journey through the world of classical music.
From the majestic symphonies of Beethoven to the breathtaking concertos of Mozart, the Last Night at the Proms showcases the talents of the most renowned musicians, conductors, and soloists, delivering performances that will leave you in awe. But wait, there's more! The second half of the concert, the legendary "Proms in the Park," takes the excitement beyond the Royal Albert Hall and brings it to outdoor venues across the UK.
Prepare to be captivated by the sheer magnificence of the Bournemouth Air Festival, an event that promises to sweep you off your feet.
This awe-inspiring event combines incredible aerial displays, exhilarating performances, and a vibrant seaside atmosphere. As the sun begins to set, get ready for the spectacular Night Air displays. Watch in wonder as illuminated aircraft take to the sky, lighting up the darkness with their dazzling aerobatics and mesmerizing pyrotechnic displays. It's a magical sight that will leave you spellbound.
As you enter the grounds of the Goodwood Motor Circuit, you'll be surrounded by a vibrant atmosphere that captures the essence of motorsport history.
The Goodwood Revival celebrates the racing heritage of the 1940s, '50s, and '60s, bringing together vintage cars, motorcycles, and passionate enthusiasts from all over the world. Dressing in period-appropriate attire is encouraged, so embrace the fashion of the time, whether it's the glamorous style of the '40s or the mod-inspired looks of the '60s. The festival ground becomes a sea of vintage fashion. So, dust off your finest vintage attire, fasten your seatbelt, and prepare to be transported back in time.
Lights, camera, action! Get ready to immerse yourself in the captivating world of cinema as the prestigious London Film Festival gears up to take centre stage.
It's a star-studded event that showcases a diverse range of films from around the globe, featuring renowned filmmakers, emerging talents, and captivating stories that will transport you to new cinematic realms. So, grab some popcorn, find your seat in a darkened theater, and let the magic of the London Film Festival transport you to worlds both familiar and unknown.
The Festival of Lights celebrates the triumph of light over darkness, and is an important celebration for Hindu, Sikh and Jain communities.
You can find celebrations in cities across the UK, with one of the most notable being held in Trafalgar Square - a festival of dazzling dance, music and activities that appeals to visitors of all ages.
During Halloween, people of all ages embrace their creative side and transform into ghouls, witches, vampires and superheroes.
From costume parties to trick-or-treating, showcase your spooky alter ego and enjoy the thrill of the holiday. Haunted houses and Halloween-themed attractions pop up, offering thrilling experiences for those seeking a good scare.
Otherwise known as Guy Fawkes Night, this an annual tradition is celebrated on the evening of November 5th in the UK.
This marks the failed Gunpowder Plot of 1605 to blow up the Houses of Parliament. In addition to fireworks, effigies of Guy Fawkes, the plot's most infamous conspirator, are often created and placed on top of the bonfires. These effigies, known as "guys," are traditionally made from old clothes and stuffed with newspaper or hay.
This solemn and significant occasion of Remembrance Day holds a profound place in the hearts of people around the world.
Honouring the men and women who sacrificed their lives in conflicts and wars around the world, it is observed on November 11th each year, marking the armistice that ended World War I in 1918. Traditionally, members of the Royal Family attend a service as the Cenotaph in London, and a two-minute silence is observed at 11am around the country.
Get ready to immerse yourself in the captivating world of jazz that takes centre stage at the renowned London Jazz Festival.
Let the music transport you, uplift your spirits and ignite a passion for this remarkable genre that continues to captivate audiences around the world. Performances are held in famous London venues, from the Barbican and the Royal Festival Hall, to smaller jazz clubs like Ronnie Scotts. You'll have the opportunity to experience live performances by emerging talents and international jazz legends.