UK events: March

Another month means we’ve got another lot of events for you to try out across the UK. The weather should start to warm up a little soon (although we can’t guarantee that), so we’ve even included an outdoor event this month to get you out and about.

Shakespeare Son et Lumière

City of London, 4-5 March 2016

Guildhall Library and the Guildhall School of Music & Drama are hosting a spectacular light and sound production to celebrate the City’s connection to Shakespeare, on the 400th anniversary of his death. The historic façade of Guildhall will be brought to life with 3D projection mapping technology and a special music composition by the Guildhall School of Music & Drama. Visitors can complete their evening with a visit to Guildhall Art Gallery and the City of London Heritage Gallery (both open until 21:00) where they can enjoy a rare opportunity to view Shakespeare’s signature on his mortgage deed alongside Guildhall Library’s copy of the First Folio – considered one of the five best in the world. 

York Literature Festival

York, 10-23 March 2016

York’s Literature Festival is one of the best of its kind. Held annually; the four-day event brings together authors, critics and authorities on the arts and culture. Past guests have included author Will Self and poet Carol Ann Duffy. Headliners for 2016 include Michael Portillo, Wendy Cope and Arthur Smith. 

Bristol’s International Jazz and Blues Festival

Bristol, 18-20 March 2016

Bristol plays host to some of the world’s most exciting and innovative jazz musicians for one explosive weekend each March. Join the crowds to dance, in a whirlwind of colourful outfits and fancy footwork, or find a table to listen to the rich tones of music by artists from around the world. 

Head of the River Race

London, 19 March 2016

The Head of the River Race is one of the London’s longest running sporting traditions. Every spring, 400 crews from around the globe take to the waters of London’s famous river Thames to compete in this historic boating event. The race sees crews from all over the world competing, from Australia to Austria. The event is a great way for Londoners and visitors alike to celebrate the start of spring as they cheer on teams along London’s picturesque river Thames.