10 Best Festivals in the Cotswolds

WOMAD stands for the World of Music, Arts and Dance, and this exciting event shines the spotlight on artists from around the globe. Taking place in Charlton Park in Malmesbury in Wiltshire county the last week of July every year, the lively world-music festival always has a stellar lineup of acts representing over 50 countries.

Music fans can look forward to both established and emerging headliners at WOMAD. Past performers include the Flaming Lips, Angélique Kidjo, Gilberto Gil and Fatoumata Diawara. Along with the performances, there are workshops where you can learn everything from Brazilian folkloric dance to how to play the xylophone. A Taste of the World food event, children’s programming and a well-being sanctuary round out the event.

The Cheltenham Music Festival is a classical music festival offering a dreamy experience set against the backdrop of the beautiful Cotswolds surroundings. Since its start in 1946, the event, held in the Regent town of Cheltenham, has brought in the world’s top classical music talent. The sublime festival takes place over 12 days in June/July, and there is a lot to take in, from world premieres to concerts for the family.

One highlight of the Cheltenham Music Festival is the opportunity to listen to classical music in beautiful venues across the Cotswolds. Historic abbeys, churches and other locales provide stunning settings for exquisite performances. Alfie Boe, Nicola Benedetti and Steven Isserlis are among the impressive list of previous performers.

The Cornbury Music Festival entertains and intrigues with its incredible lineup of musical artists every year. Nicknamed 'Poshstock' because of its location and crowd, the annual summer music festival takes place in the Great Tew Park in Oxfordshire.

Founded by music promoter Hugh Phillimore, the Cornbury Music Festival has brought in such headliners as Bryan Adams, James Blunt and Roland Keating to the stage. There are other things to experience throughout the multi-day event, including a fairground, children’s activities and food and drink areas.

Forest Live Festival is part of a musical series across England where you'll enjoy amazing sounds and scenery and feel good knowing that part of the proceeds support sustainable forestry. Presented by Forestry England, the Cotswolds festival takes place in the beautiful Westonbirt Arboretum in Gloucestershire, near the town of Tetbury.

Spectacular greenery and fresh, open air provide an inviting setting for the Forest Live Festival. While the performance lineup always changes, you can expect familiar names from rock and pop, such as past performers Keane and Rag n’ Bone Man. Since there is no assigned seating, remember to bring blankets and chairs and stake out your spot for the show.

The Royal International Air Tattoo attracts over 150,000 spectators annually with thrilling sights and sounds and aircraft of all shapes and sizes. The world’s largest military airshow takes place on the 3rd weekend of July at RAF Fairford air force base in Gloucestershire. The celebration of aviation, science and engineering offers something for all ages and supports the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust.

Along with the over 200 aircraft to see at the Royal International Air Tattoo, you can expect fascinating exhibits, entertainment and good food. Among the highlights is the actual air show, as well as the Village Green for entertainment and the Vintage Village featuring historic fighter jets, helicopters and other aircraft.

The Big Feastival celebrates the music, food and culture of the UK during this annual epic event. The weekend festival takes place in August at the Village of Kingham on the Cotswolds farm of Alex James, bassist of the rock band Blur. You can expect to see big-name artists, as previous performers have included The Human League, Sugababes and Basement Jaxx.

Music isn’t the only thing on the schedule at The Big Feastival. They call it a ‘feastival’ for a reason, as Michelin-star chefs give live demos, there's tasty street food to try and a cookery school. As for families, kids can enjoy fun activities, from a silent disco to circus acts and children’s bands entertaining everyone.

The Cheltenham Jazz Festival is a celebration of all genres of jazz and one of the leading music events in the UK. The annual gathering typically takes place in April and May at Montpellier Gardens in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire. Over 6 days, international jazz icons and up-and-coming artists entertain the crowds. Among the well-known past performers are Gregory Porter, Chick Corea, Robert Plant, Corinne Bailey Rae and many more.

While music is the star attraction of the Cheltenham Jazz Festival, it also features programming packed with worthwhile experiences. Along with the large-scale concerts, you can enjoy intimate club shows, a Festival Village and places to enjoy food and drinks.

The Tewkesbury Medieval Festival is a unique experience that centres on a re-enactment of the Battle of Tewkesbury, which took place in 1471. The largest event of its kind in the United Kingdom, the festival takes place every July on part of the grounds of the original battle.

Across the massive site of the Tewkesbury Medieval Festival, you can find interesting places to explore. On the Battlefield, you can take in falconry displays and archery competitions. Over at the Medieval Market, you can browse the vendors selling their wares, visit the Beer Tent or take the kids to the children’s area.

The 2000 Trees Festival is the alternative to mainstream music concerts. Since 2006, the independent music festival has been attracting music lovers to the rolling hills of the Cotswolds. The fun-loving gathering takes place Wednesday to Sunday during the 2nd week of July at Upcote Farm Withington, located near Cheltenham in Gloucestershire.

While the 2000 Trees Festival is all about the music, with 120 emerging and established acts, you can also enjoy camping and glamping, locally-produced food and cold beer.

DogFest lives up to its name with a fun-filled event for pooches and their people. The annual event happens in late September at Cirencester Park in Gloucestershire County in the Cotswolds. Over 2 days, there is fun for the entire family, including your precious furry friends, with entertainment, food and activities for all ages.

From dog shows to shopping, DogFest delivers good times. Highlights include the Big Dog Walk, a 2k or 4k stroll for you and your pup. There’s also the Main Arena with performances, workshops and even famous dogs on TikTok making an appearance.