The sweet combination of live music, sun dappled fields and scrumptious food is a special one, and our line-up of Cotswold festivals pays homage to this in fine fashion. So wait not a moment longer because it’s time to pack up the car, pitch a tent and revel in the glittering magic of these epic events.
The Big Feastival, Charlbury
This family-friendly festival chooses the serene Oxfordshire countryside as its backdrop. With activities for every generation, stages are speckled across the festival site while you’ll find irresistible creamy treats at Alex James’ Cheese Hub. Don’t forget to pay The Sundown Saloon a visit for country-inspired tunes!
2000 Trees, Withington
Created by music festival veterans, this family-centred gathering is based on the principles of community, kinship and collective wellbeing. By keeping its independence, 2000 Trees has stayed true to its roots, lending it a palpable sense of togetherness where the festival goer is top priority. Expect silent discos, fancy dress and mouthwatering locally-brewed ciders.
Wilderness, Cornbury Park
Taking place between 1 – 4 August, this four day festival is set in Oxfordshire’s beautiful Cornbury Park. Here you can bask in the shade of ancient trees, dine beside a deep freshwater lake or lounge under the rafters. It’s also a family-friendly festival, so you can park the kids in the cinema tent while you try yoga, forest foraging or creative crafting.
Cheltenham Food & Drink Festival
Indulge your tastebuds at this unapologetically foodie event. Running from 21 – 23 June, this tasty festival features some of the best chefs and wine experts in the UK, while spotlighting local talent. Along with top names, there’s also cheese and wine masterclasses, cooking demonstrations and live music to enjoy. Sign us up!
Forest Live, Westonbirt Arboretum
Run by Forestry England, this assortment of six festivals across wild woodlands helps to grow and protect precious UK forests. In Gloucestershire, it takes place at Westonbirt and this year features jazz icon Gregory Porter on 4 July, Van Morrison on 7 July, and Nile Rodgers & CHIC on 12 July.
Where to stay
Cheltenham
This modern coach house has been beautifully renovated using original features and contemporary design elements. While a spacious living area provides a place to gather, it’s within easy reach of the centre of Cheltenham with its elegant streets, trendy independent shops and cafes.
Charlbury
This enchanting bolthole at the centre of Charlbury is a wonderful Cotswold sanctuary for a couple to escape to. We love its central location – just footsteps from the town’s plethora of classic pubs and independent shops.
Near Westonbirt
Hillside Cottage is a period townhouse that fuses traditional 19th century character with a contemporary feel. Nestled in a quiet location, it’s just moments from Tetbury where you can while away the hours at antique shops.
Near Withington
The Old Chapel is a beautifully restored 19th century home with a peaceful ambience. Swathed in classic features, its elegant terrace creates a serene sun trap while stained glass windows make this bolthole unique.
