Ten one-of-a-kind countryside festivals you might not have heard of
1
Tewkesbury Medieval Festival
Walk through the tents of a medieval encampment passing knights and maidens as they prepare for battle at this unique countryside festival. It is the largest free medieval gathering in Europe centred around the re-enactment of the Battle of Tewkesbury. Armour clashes and broadswords sweep through the air as arrows fly above. Commentators keep you up to date and tell the history of the Lancastrians meeting the Yorkists on this spot in 1471. It’s a loud and lively battle that the re-enactors really put their hearts into. After the battle walk through the camps and stalls, spot people polishing their armour and pick up a pint of mead. It’s a truly unique experience and really is like stepping back in time.
Where and when – 12-13th July 2025, Tewkesbury
2
Fantasy Forest Festival
Step into a word of make believe at Sudeley Castle where “the only limit is your own imagination”. This countryside festival is all about making your fantasy a reality, bringing your favourite book series, sci-fi film or historic era to life. It’s a celebration of individuality and you won’t find a more inclusive festival. Bands take to the stage, you can browse the variety of stalls and take part in some of the fantastically unique events. Race teapots through an obstacle course, meet Krampus, take away your own Victorian photograph and spend time in Terry Pratchett’s Discworld.
Where and when – 18-20th July 2025, Sudeley Castle
3
Cotswold Festival of Steam
The Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway Festival is a celebration of all things locomotive. It’s a unique opportunity to get up close to these majestic steam trains, seeing the detail of the intricate engineering. The air fills with steam as the pistons chug and the drivers sound their cheerful whistle. Watch as the trains wind their way through the picturesque Cotswold landscape and take time to peruse the heritage displays. Historic railway artefacts, vintage carriages and fascinating exhibitions will really immerse you in this world. This year also celebrated 200 years since the birth of modern railway so there’s even more reason to celebrate!
Where and when – 24-26th May 2025, across the GWSR line
4
RHS Malvern Spring Festival
Celebrating ‘Plants and People’, this year’s show highlights sustainable gardening, accessible plant care and gardening for wellbeing. Surround yourselves in beautiful and inspiring garden displays and attend talks by Alan Titchmarsh, Raymond Blanc, Nicki Chapman and more. It’s a fantastic opportunity to learn more about the plants you already own and to pick up some new ones for your collection. Alongside the flora, there are a selection of lifestyle stands and food and drink so you can spend a full day here shopping, eating, and popping into the theatre.
Where and when – 8-11th May 2025, Three Counties Showground, Malvern
5
Ludlow Piano Festival
A fairly new festival to the scene, this year’s festival shines a spotlight on American, Polish and female composers. For five days in May a broad spectrum of artists takes to the stage at venues across Ludlow. Join Alistair McGowan as he tells the story of Erik Satie, experience the American influences of Lana Bode and Peter Donohoe plays Chopin. You’re sure to discover new sounds you love and hear some old favourites at this fabulous festival. While in Ludlow why not explore the historic castle and wander along the meandering streets passing timber framed buildings and the old market hall. There will be an uplifting atmosphere during the festival season which can’t be missed!
Where and when – 21-25th May 2025, venues across Ludlow
6
Eastnor Steam Festival
Set in the grounds of Eastnor Castle the Steam Festival adds an extra layer of excitement to your visit. The impressive battlements and towers become the backdrop to a display of steam engines and vintage cars. These feats of engineering are a wonder to behold. It’s a great day out for the whole family with model steam engine rides, pony rides and even nostalgic dance workshops to really get you in the spirit! Tickets include admission to the 19th century castle which is still home to the Hervey Bathurst family. See the great hall, dining room, drawing room and some of the opulent bedrooms to get a glimpse into this lifestyle. Surrounded by fabulous grounds this countryside festival should be on your Spring to do list.
Where and when – 25-26th May, Eastnor Castle
7
Royal International Air Tattoo
Drawing visitors from around the world, the Royal International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford is one of the best flying events in the country. Watch the unbelievable air shows as Spitfires and Black Hawks take to the skies. You’ll have an opportunity to meet the pilots and to see a range of planes from around the world up close. There is nothing quite like it for aviaton fans and you’ll leave with even more passion. While here you are thoroughly entertained by live bands and at the Techno Zone you’ll find interactive and inspirational exhibits with drone displays and robotics demonstrations.
Where and when – 18-20th July 2025, RAF Fairford
8
Stow Gypsy Horse Fair
Dating back over hundreds of years, this slightly more unusual fair sees Gypsies and the travelling community come together at Stow-on-the-Wold. Once a popular wool trade town, it grew over the years, becoming more diversified until it became better know as a horse fair bringing farmers, huntsmen and Gypsies to the area. The main horse sales moved but we still have a large gathering of travelling people coming to the area twice a year. Charming horse drawn carriages set a beautiful scene making it a popular countryside festival. Explore the crafts on offer and witness horse sales soaking in the atmosphere.
Where and when – the fair can move but is generally around the nearest Thursday to 12th May and 24th October and can last a week, Stow-on-the-Wold
9
Wood Festival
This award-winning festival invites you to explore the outdoors. Held in the Chiltern Hills at Braziers Park there is a full line-up of folk and roots music, workshops and talks from inspirational guests like George Monbiot and Robin Ince. You are immersed in this beautiful location and many of the workshops have a focus on sustainability and the nature that surrounds you. Join an evening bat walk, create some upcycled fashion or try a new craft, there is so much on offer at this countryside festival. Alongside all of the events there will be a host of international food stalls serving plant-based menus.
Where and when – 16-17th May 2025, Braziers Park, Chiltern Hills
10
Charlbury Beer Festival
Charlbury Beer Festival is a real social gathering and a countryside festival not to miss, so grab a pint and come and join us. Drinking pints of ale, craft beer and cider, hopefully in the sun, to raise money for great causes sounds like the perfect way to spend the day. There’s live music to accompany the frivolities and plenty of food stalls. During the day you can also watch, or take part in, the Aunt Sally championship. This game dates back to the 17th century and is pretty simple, contestants throw a stick to try and knock a ‘dolly’ off a stand, very similar to a coconut shy! The first Singles World Championship was held at the Charlbury Beer Festival in 2011 and now takes place every year.
Where and when – 28th June 2025, Charlbury Cricket Club
