The British Summer has finally arrived, and that means it’s strawberries and cream season!

Why not pack yourself a bit of a picnic and head out to explore somewhere new this June.

We are looking forward to a summer filled with sports, fetes, festivals and fairs – we hope you are too!
 

North West

The Royal Cheshire County Show

19 to 20 June

Go along to the premier summertime agricultural event in the North West of England. Featuring many different animal shows, there will also be shows for vintage machinery, and a farmers market.

More information here

Bee in the City Preview  

2 to 3 June

Before the Bee in the City public art trail opens in Manchester on 23 July, get up close and personal with one of the huge, bee-shaped sculptures.

More information here
 

North East and Yorkshire

Festival of Ideas

5 to 17 June

Have you been imagining the impossible? Then, why not attend the ‘Festival of Ideas’ in York. There promises to be talks, performances, exhibitions and more.

More information here

Durham Regatta, Durham

9 to 10 June

The Durham Regatta not only offers thrilling racing, but also a variety of attractions for everyone. There will be entertainment from bands and performers, along with a great selection of stalls to browse, and local foods.

More information here
 

Scotland

Jazz Fest

20 to 24 June

If you are a fan of jazz, then this is the event for you. Head to Glasgow this June for ‘Jazz Fest’.

More information here

Edinburgh International Film Festival

20 June to 1 July

Come along to the world’s longest continually-running film festival this summer.

Full details here
 

Wales

Volvo Ocean Race

27 May to 10 June

For the first time ever, the Volvo Ocean Race will be ending in Cardiff. Go along to the free festival event in Cardiff Bay, and explore the Race Village, find out more about the endurance contest in the Volvo Ocean Race cinema, take a photograph with the iconic trophy, and participate in a range of action-packed activities.

More information here

Festival of Voice

7 to 17 June

Do you believe in the power of the voice to challenge and inspire? If so, why not go along to the ‘Festival of Voice’ and engage with emerging and established local, national, and international artists, and to make your own voice heard.

Full details here
 

South West

Festival of Nature

2 to 10 June

Established in 2003, the Festival of Nature is the UK’s biggest free celebration of the natural world. Multiple events are happening in Bath and Bristol!

Find out more here

The Original Shake & Stir Vintage Festival

28 June to 1 July

Go along to the ‘Original Shake and Stir Festival’ for your chance to twist and jive, and celebrate all things vintage!

More details here
 

South East and London

Greenwich+Docklands International Festival

21 June to 7 July

Greenwich+Docklands International Festival is London’s leading outdoor theatre and performing arts festival.

Find out more about the festival here
 

Hertford Castle Carnival and Fun Day

24 June

Go along to the Hertford Castle carnival and Fun Day, where you will be able to explore Hertford Castle, enjoy live entertainment, and wander round the market stalls.

More information here
 

Midlands

RHS Chatsworth Flower Show

6 to 10 June

Travel to Derby, and immerse yourself in inspirational gardens, hang out with exotic orchids, and explore the new living laboratory. 

More information here
 

Medieval Clash of Steel

23 to 24 June

Immerse yourself in the 15th Century to see a tournament of knights competing on foot with swords, bows, and poleaxes.

More details here
 

Northern Ireland

Mourne International Walking Festival 2018

22 to 24 June

It has been said that the Mourne Mountains are the ‘Best Walking Destination’ in Northern Ireland! Why not go along and decide if you agree? This walking festival features a variety of self-guided lowland walks including more strenuous mountain climbs depending on your abilities.

Find out more here

UK Pipe Band Championships 2018

16 June

Travel to Stormont Estate to see the 2018 UK Pipe Band Championships, and see up to 100 bands compete to be crowned the champions!

More details here

Of course, this is not an exhaustive list, and there are plenty more events to get involved with! For more ideas, see the VisitBritain website.