Are you planning to use the August Bank Holiday weekend (28th-30th August 2021) to hit the touring trail in your motorhome and visit one of the many festivals going on up and down the country?
There are plenty of wonderful events on across the UK, ranging from food and drink festivals to medieval re-enactments. If you’re still undecided as to where to go, we’re sharing some suggestions.
Please note all of the information is accurate at the time of writing but could be subject to change. Please check before you book.
Homegrown Festival, Nottingham Arboretum
Nottingham’s Homegrown Festival presents a great chance to enjoy the area’s live music scene. Running on Monday 30th, the event features performances from bands such as The Crying Violets and Deco, while there will be entertainment on the Fringe stage. Refreshments are to be provided by the Nottingham Street Food Club and Camden Town Brewery, and there will be a selection of local ales to try too.
You can find out more and book tickets here.
While you’re in the area…
Why not visit Wollaton Hall? The Elizabethan house appeared in 2012 Batman movie The Dark Knight Rises.
Harrogate Food and Drink Festival, Ripley Castle
Running from Saturday to Bank Holiday Monday, Harrogate Food and Drink Festival is hosted at Ripley Castle. Situated just outside Harrogate, the festival promises to serve up delicious cuisine from some of the best street food traders in the UK, alongside a live playlist of music and entertainment. Other highlights include an artisan market and chef demos.
You can find out more and book tickets here.
While you’re in the area…
How about stopping for a cream tea at Betty’s Tea Room? The iconic venue is always hugely popular, so it’s worth booking online first to avoid any disappointment.
Thames Traditional Boat Festival, Fawley Meadows
The Thames Traditional Boat Festival is held at Fawley Meadows, Henley-on-Thames, and offers great music, shopping experiences, food and drink. And of course, there will be boats galore, ranging from military craft to amphibians. Other highlights include a Battle of Britain Memorial flyover and there will also be a family dog show in honour of our four-legged friends.
You can find out more and book tickets here.
While you’re in the area…
How about a walk along the Thames? It will be a chance to soak up plenty of sun (weather permitting) and stunning views, as well as a chance to relax by the water.
England’s Medieval Festival, Herstmonceux Castle, Sussex
Fans of history will love what is billed as ‘the largest and most spectacular Medieval festival in Great Britain’. Held at Herstmonceux Castle, you’ll be able to witness re-enactors showing off their skills, watch puppet and theatre shows, listen to minstrels, and take part in activities such as axe throwing, blacksmithing and more. Plus, there’s even an afternoon battle featuring hundreds of knights in armour – who could say no to that?
You can find out more and book tickets here.
While you’re in the area…
Take a short detour to visit The Observatory Science Centre.
Bath & West Country Festival, The Showground, Shepton Mallet
Held Friday to Sunday, the festival is hosted at The Showground in Shepton Mallet (near Bath). There are a whole host of interactive activities being held in the Main Ring, and there will also be a food hall where you can meet some of the finest food and drink producers in Britain. There will also be an open-air showground and live music.
You can find out more and book tickets here.
While you’re in the area…
Why not take a walk around the Mendip Hills? They’re an area of outstanding natural beauty.
Sandwich Festival, Kent
Take a trip to Sandwich for a fun festival that includes food and craft stalls. Running from Saturday to Monday, there will be the chance to watch a blacksmith working in his forge, making parts for ‘The Nicholas’, a Medieval boat. Other demonstrations will include calligraphy, woodworking and bread making, and there will also be a selection of Italian cars on display in the town centre.
You can find out more here.
While you’re in the area…
Visit Richborough Roman Fort and Amphitheatre. It was a crucial location during the Roman occupation of Britain, transforming from a military base to a bustling port and later, a huge fort.
Arundel Festival of the Arts, West Sussex
Having kicked off on August 20th, the Arundel Festival of the Arts will be coming to a close on Bank Holiday Monday – but before that, there will still be plenty going on. Events on offer include a hog-roast with live music, a classic car display, a duck race and a vintage funfair. Pop-up events, town trails and more will also be taking place.
You can find out more and book tickets here.
While you’re in the area…
There are other wonderful sights in the area to see as well, including the Arundel Castle and the Wetland Centre.
If you enjoyed this article why not check out some of these…
Visit our travel section for advice on where to tour
Find out about Susan Taylor’s festival experience
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