Spring Bank Holiday weekend is coming up fast this May 27th to 29th, and theres no better place to spend it than in the Cotswolds! This gorgeous region of gently rolling hills and golden stone crosses five counties; Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Wiltshire and Worcestershire. The area is host to a variety of exciting events over the long weekend to create a Cotswold Spring Bank Holiday experience to remember. There's something for every interest on offer, from music, film and theatre events through to foodie festivals and other eclectic offerings. Take a look at our comprehensive roundup of Cotswold Spring Bank Holiday events, and get ready to enjoy an unforgettable weekend away!
Cotswold Spring Bank Holiday Weekend Events
Music, Film and Theatre Events
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Bath International Music and Literature Festival
19- 28 May 2017; Bath
This 10-day long celebration of literature, words and music set in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Bath will play host to over 130 events. Special guests include stars such as Mary Berry, Helen Fielding (author of Bridget Jones Baby), and Sophie Hannah (author of Closed Casket).
26- 28 May 2017; Lechlade With over 100 performers spread over 3 days, the Lechlade Festival, held along the banks of the Thames features the Hoosiers, Dr Feelgood and The Lambrettas. It includes many free family-friendly activities, including willow weaving, yoga, pilates, belly dancing, and circus-themed offerings such as stilt walking, hula hooping, juggling and tight wire.
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The Carice Singers perform My Own Country
28 May, 3.30pm; St Michaels Church, Whichford This stunning performance from one of Britains best choral music groups includes music from early 20th century British composers Bax, Delius, Ireland, Moeran and Warlock. Tickets are 15 and include refreshments.
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Outdoor Cinema- Dirty Dancing
29 May, 9.30pm: Tetbury Westonbirt House Watch this classic favourite, now celebrating its 30th anniversary, in an exciting outdoor setting at Tetbury Westonbirt House. The theatre can arrange blankets, chocolates and wine, everything you need for a cosy evening under the stars. Tickets are from 12 for admission with an additional fee for optional extras.
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Showstopper! The Improvised Musical
25- 27 May: Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham A tour de force of theatre created on the spot every night for the audience. The Showstoppers are an internationally acclaimed troupe famous for their mixture of improvised musical theatre and comedy. Heading from the West End to Cheltenham, this is the perfect time to catch one of their shows. Watch the promo video for the play here.
25-27 May: Chipping Norton Performed by the Chipping Norton Amateur Operatic Society as a follow up to their sold out production of Fiddler on The Roof last year, this musical by Cole Porter is a guaranteed hit. Tickets available from 12 for the Saturday matinee.
Foodie Events
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Blenheim Palace Food Festival
27- 29 May 2017 Set at the stunning Blenheim Palace, birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill, this annual celebration of local food and beverages offers cooking demonstrations, activities and more than 100 stalls selling gourmet goodies. Tickets to the food festival are included with the price of admission to Blenheim Palace, so dive in and enjoy.
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Grittleton Plant & Food Fair Charity Event
Sunday 28 May 2017, 11.00am-3.00pm Local artisan produce, plants from specialist nurseries and gardening accessories are some of the treats for sale at the Plant & Food Fair. Enjoy the Hog Roast while exploring the beautiful surroundings of Grittleton House. All proceeds from the fair go to support Action Medical Research.
Races in the Cotswolds
A variety of eclectic traditional race events still takes place each spring as part of the Cotswold Spring Bank Holiday festivities, including woolsack racing, cheese rolling and the newer addition of duck racing!
29 May 2017; Tetbury Watch individuals and teams compete to carry heavy sacks of wool up and down a steep hill in a tradition dating back to the 17th century. This action packed event in the bustling market town of Tetbury draws crowds every year and is complemented by a lively collection of street events, stalls and amusement rides. Proceeds from the race benefit local charities, which this year include Longfield Hospice Care and several local youth sports projects.
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Cheese Rolling at Coopers Hill
29 May 2017; Brockworth, Gloucestershire If you prefer your races to feature edible items, look no further than Cheese Rolling at Coopers Hill. Gloucestershire cheeses are launched down the steep hill and locals compete to catch them, often earning sprained ankles in the mad dash downhill! These days the cheeses have been replaced with foam for safety reasons but its still a great spectator sport.
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South Cerney Street Fair, Duck Race and Festival
29 May 2017, 10am-5pm The famous Duck Race, where thousands of toy ducks battle their way down the river, is one of the year's best highlights in beautiful South Cerney. The Street Fair features over 100 stalls, events and displays, including Morris Dancing, pig roasts and live music. Proceeds from the Duck Race go to support local youth organisations.
More Festivals and Events
20-28 May 2017 Try your hand at playing the harp, learn about beekeeping, or go on a nature ramble to identify local butterflies, flowers and insects at the Nailsworth Festival. Featuring live music from skiffle to guitar and saxophone quartets, a theatre production of The Wizard of Oz, and many more exciting talks, exhibitions and workshops.
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Gloucester Tall Ships Festival
27-29 May 2017 For something a bit different, check out the Gloucester Tall Ships Festival, set in the splendid surrounds of Gloucesters historic docks. Spot sword-fighting pirates in the shows in Mariners Square, and listen to tall tales from salty sea dogs. As part of the festival's highlights, two ships will recreate a pirate battle complete with historically accurate weaponry.
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La Vie En Bleu Prescott Hill Climb Weekend
27-28 May 2017; Prescott This one is unmissable for motoring enthusiasts. Run by the Bugatti Owners Club, drivers race to complete a challenging uphill course in the best possible time. The La Vita Rossa event features Italian cars, music and entertainment, as well as a supercar paddock showing off classic cars. Enthusiasts can also apply to display their French and Italian cars at the event. Youre spoilt for choice with this array of exciting Cotswold spring bank holiday events! To add the finishing touch of luxury and relaxation to your plans, we offer a range of accommodation in rustic, character-rich Cotswold cottages Theres room for all the family in our larger properties. Or for a cosy getaway for two, consider our selection of romantic cottages. Enjoy the weekend!