VIP Events Calendar
Timing is everything
The peaceful hills of the Cotswolds have long played host to celebrities, superstars, and the elite. Revered as a peaceful place to escape, hidden from prying eyes behind drystone walls and where they can relax and become one of the ‘locals’.
That said, the region plays host to a number of prestigious and vibrant events throughout the year that are always a hot ticket on the social calendar.
January
New Year’s Day Races – Cheltenham Racecourse
Wrap up warm, don your finest tweed and cashmere and brave the chill of the first meet of the new year. The Club Enclosure offers spectacular views of the racecourse, or book a private box for an exclusive experience.
February
Spa sensations & The Light Night Festival – Bath & Worcester
Take advantage of the romantic season and enjoy one of the many Valentine’s Day packages and events at the Cotswold spas. We highly recommend a visit to Bath, an iconic wellness destination, to partake in the Thermae Bath Spa indulgent treatments.
Alternatively, head to Worcester for their Light Night Festival, where the Arches come alive with intriguing and playful art performances, shining a bright light in this darker month.
March
Cheltenham Festival™ – Cheltenham Racecourse
The pinnacle of the jump racing season, the legendary Cheltenham Festival™ features four extraordinary days of racing at one of the prettiest racecourses in the country. The hospitality is world-class and there is a myriad of options to choose from when it comes to planning your day.
April
Chipping Norton Literature Festival – Chipping Norton
Attracting literary treasures such as David Nicholls, Lee Child and Ian Rankin, the Chipping Norton Literary Festival (or Chip Lit Fest) involves the whole community and is regarded as one of the friendliest and most innovative of its kind in the country.
May
Badminton Horse Trials – Badminton
Taking place in the stunning parklands that surround Badminton House, seat of the Duke of Beaufort, the Badminton Horse Trials is one of the most exciting equestrian events in the worldwide horse trials calendar.
June
Nocturne Live – Blenheim Palace
Held against the beautiful backdrop of Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire, the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill, Nocturne Live turns the Great Court into the most fabulous of concert arenas. Stroll the beautiful grounds, pack a lakeside picnic, or indulge in a VIP pass with exclusive access to the palace, dinner, and drinks and one of the best seats in the house for the concert.
July
Queen Mother Trophy & The Royal International Air Tattoo – Cirencester Polo Club & RAF Fairford
Spend a wonderful afternoon in the hallowed surrounds of the Cirencester Polo Club. With a history dating back to 1894, Cirencester sits in one of the most beautiful parks in the Cotswolds. Enjoy the highest levels of polo and the thrill of the action at the Queen Mother Trophy, dine in the Ivy Lodge Restaurant or book a pitch-side picnic bubble for your own exclusive experience.
Otherwise, turn your eyes to the skies with a trip to the Royal International Air Tattoo. From the Black Eagles to Tom Cruise, you’re sure to spot some shining stars, even during the day.
August
Big Feastival – Kingham
Taking place on Alex James’ farm, deep in the beautiful Cotswold countryside, the Big Feastival is a wonderful celebration of food, music, and good times. Up the ante with a VIP pass where you’ll gain access to an exclusive VIP lounge with a private bar, covered seating area and premium views of the stage.
September
Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials – Blenheim Palace
Head to Blenheim Palace, home of the Duke of Marlborough, for four exceptional days of eventing encompassing dressage, cross country and show jumping. It really is the most magnificent of backdrops and the range of hospitality and VIP options enable you to enjoy this wonderful event in style.
October
Cheltenham Literature Festival & Autumn extravaganzas – Cheltenham, Westonbirt & Batsford
Regarded as one of the finest literary events in the world, the Cheltenham festival incorporates a vast range of talks, interactive demonstrations and readings and dinners with world-renowned chefs. All set in against the elegant backdrop of Regency Cheltenham Spa.
Or, turn the architectural landscape into one of vibrant colours by enjoying the autumnal activities at Westonbirt and Batsford Arboretum, with various outdoor events often planned to accompany the bright natural colours of red and gold, orange and yellow.
November
Bath Mozartfest – Bath
Bath Mozartfest is one of Europe’s leading classical music festivals, with world-renowned artists performing a variety of chamber and orchestral music. Over the course of nine days, you can enjoy artistic excellence. Remember to pack your finery, and perhaps indulge in the Jane Austen landscape by taking a turn about the town afterwards.
December
Sudeley Castle Spectacle of Lights – Sudeley Castle
With an extraordinary history dating back for 1,000 years, tangible royal connections and 10 magnificent gardens, the Sudeley Castle Spectacle of Lights is something to behold. This beautiful, illuminated trail meanders around the grounds lighting up the gardens, ruins, and castle, with music as you wander and festive food and drink to keep you warm and cosy.
See all of our suggested Events in our Cotswold Experiences section.
