Spring is my favourite time of the year. It is when life comes out of its winter dormancy and erupts in rich colours and gorgeous songs. In the UK, we have spring festivals which date back to centuries ago. Many of the older traditions have sadly gone now, but there is still plenty to look forward to during the darker months.
I’ve written this blog post as a British person who grew up in the UK. During the spring, I often travel to experience at least one of these each year. They are a lot of fun and really celebrate British culture and past times. If you’re visiting the UK for the first time this spring, then this post is your ultimate guide to getting the most out of your time here. Enjoy!
1. Cheltenham Festival (10th – 13th of March)
Cheltenham in Gloucestershire has its fair share of festivals throughout the year, including the Literacy Festival. However, it is best known for the original Cheltenham Festival – one of the largest events in the horse racing calendar. Over four days the event features some incredibly thrilling races and the prestigious Cheltenham Gold Cup.
Top Tip: If you are visiting this festival from abroad for the first time, make sure that you check out the dress codes first!
2. St. George’s Day Celebrations (23rd April)
Whilst not the largest festival, it wouldn’t be a true UK Spring Festival list without a mention of St. George’s day. Across the country, there are loads of different events that run, ranging from medieval reenactments to parades. There are even food festivals! Some of the best places to experience this are Salisbury, Nottingham and, of course, London.
3. Edinburgh Science Festival (4th – 19th April)
If you fancy learning some Science in one of the UK’s prettiest cities, then check out the Edinburgh Science Festival. This two-week celebration is absolutely perfect for families. There are hands-on work shops, incredible exhibitions and engaging talks and lectures. The best part is that it is all run by some of the leading scientists in the UK, if not the world.
4. Beltane Fire Festival, Edinburgh (30th April)
Whilst the Celtic traditions of Scotland are sadly not as known throughout the UK, you can truly experience the magic of it at the Beltane Fire Festival. This runs each year on Calton Hill in Edinburgh and features some incredible fire performances and theatrical storytelling. It really is a one-of-a-kind and you won’t find anything similar. If you are around Scotland during this time, definitely check this out.
5. May Day Celebrations (4th May)
May Day is the perfect way to start of summer in the UK and you can celebrate it all over the British Isles. Nearby to us is one of my favourite places to do so – Oxford; where choir performances at Magdalen College, followed by lively morris dancers and street fairs bring the historic city to life. Other fantastic options are along the South Coast. Padstow (Cornwall), and Hastings have unique celebrations too, including the Obby Oss.
6. Brighton Festival (2nd – 25th May)
One of the UK’s largest arts festivals is the Brighton Festival, a month-long celebration of the arts. Whilst this seaside city is known for its creativity, it really comes into its own during this month. A highlight has to be the Children’s Parade, which kicks off the festival with a proper splash of colour.
7. RHS Chelsea Flower Show (19th – 23rd May)
If you are into your flowers and gardening, the RHS Chelsea Flower Show in London has to be one of the best things to do. You can immerse yourself in some truly stunning floral displays and inspiration for that next gardening project.
If you are looking to see some spring flowers out in the wild, then check out my post on the best places to see spring flowers around Oxfordshire.
8. Cheese Rolling at Cooper’s Hill (25th May)
Last year, we were lucky enough to see the cheese rolling at Cooper’s Hill, Gloucestershire. It has to be one of the weirdest traditions in the UK; people genuinely fly down a (very steep) hill chasing a wheel of Double Gloucester cheese! That being said, the atmosphere is just fantastic and if you have never been before, definitely go.
9. Hay Festival (21st – 31st May)
The Hay Festival is one of the best celebrations of the arts and literature in the world. It is set in the beautiful Welsh countryside each year and welcomes talks from highly-acclaimed authors. Plus, there are plenty of workshops and live music performances which take place here too. It really is a cultural highlight of the season.
10. The Grand National (11th April)
We’ve mentioned Cheltenham as one of the biggest racing festivals this spring, but we haven’t yet mentioned the biggest; the Grand National. This is where the best of the best gather in the racing world and is one of the biggest sporting events in the British calendar. In terms of costs for tickets, you can really choose how pricey you go. The cheapest options begin at as little as £45, but can go up to £1,000 or even more for the most lucrative experiences.
11. Oxford Literary Festival (21st – 29th March)
If racing isn’t for you and you’re after something a little bit more sophisticated, might I recommend the Oxford Literary Festival. As always, you have a phenomenal line up of authors and activists speaking, ranging across a whole variety of genres. You might want to listen to the best-selling author Michael Morpurgo, known for his incredible works such as Warhorse, or you might want to listen to Chris Packham discuss his love of the natural world.
For the full line-up of speakers, check out the Oxford Literary Festival website. Whilst you’re in Oxford this spring, make sure that you check out my guide to the best places to see spring flowers around Oxfordshire.
12. Isle of Wight Spring Walking Festival (9th – 17th May)
The Isle of Wight is one of the best places to visit during the spring. It almost seems like a mystical island to the south of the mainland and is one where few tourists will get out to and explore. If you fancy seeing this amazing place up close, the best way is through the Isle of Wight Walking Festival.
This takes place during the spring and autumn, but I personally think that April is the best time to do it. You’ll get to experience the wild coast of the island whilst enjoying the first signs of spring. There will be flowers and more bird life, and usually the weather is better for this one. On that note though, do prepare for poor weather. “April showers” are a real thing in the UK!
Tips for Enjoying Spring Festivals in the UK
- Plan Ahead: Spring festivals are popular, so book tickets and accommodations early, especially for high-profile events like the Chelsea Flower Show and Cheltenham Festival.
- Dress for the Weather: Spring in the UK can be unpredictable—layer up and bring waterproofs, just in case.
- Make It a Weekend: Many festivals are located in picturesque towns and cities, making them perfect for a weekend getaway.
Final Thoughts | Spring Festivals in the UK
The Spring has to be my favourite season in the UK and it is made extra special through all the different festivals and events that go on across the country. Some of them are bonkers and unique, whilst others are culturally integral. Whatever you are in the mood for, you’ll be able to find the right spring festival for you in the UK.
