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If you think England is all about castles and tea, think again! It’s also home to some of the quirkiest and most exciting festivals you’ll ever see. Festivals in England are a true celebration of their history and culture. Every year is packed with celebrations, starting with the energetic New Year’s Eve parties to world-famous events like the Glastonbury Festival. Whether you’re joining in traditional May Day dances or checking out unique local events, these festivals offer something special for every tourist.
10 Famous Festivals In England
Here is a list of the most famous festivals in England for you to explore during your trip, offering unmatchable experiences:
1. Glastonbury Festival
Photo: Edward Simpson / Wikimedia Commons
Glastonbury Festival is one of the most famous festivals in England, held every June in Somerset. Starting in 1970 on Michael Eavis’s farm, it has grown into a legendary event attracting around 200,000 people. The festival is famous for its iconic Pyramid Stage and incredible lineup, featuring many top artists of today’s era. Despite its size and mainstream appeal, Glastonbury keeps its hippy, bohemian vibe alive. It is not just about music but a mix of performances, art and culture. These create an unforgettable experience for locals and travellers.
Month: June
Location: Worthy Farm, Pilton, Somerset, England
2. Notting Hill Carnival
Photo: robertsharp / Wikimedia Commons
The Notting Hill Carnival is one of the most popular festivals in England, bringing colour and energy to the streets of London every August Bank Holiday. Started by West Indian immigrants in the 1960s, it’s Europe’s biggest street carnival, full of lively music, dancing and vibrant costumes. Crowds enjoy Caribbean food from local stalls and soak up the joyful atmosphere. This annual celebration in Notting Hill is a must-see, showcasing Caribbean culture in the heart of England.
Month: August
Location: Notting Hill, London, England
3. Guy Fawkes Night
Photo: Peter Trimming / Wikimedia Commons
One of the most important festivals in England, Guy Fawkes Night, is celebrated on November 5 to remember the failed Gunpowder Plot of 1605. Guy Fawkes, a plotter, was caught guarding explosives meant to blow up Parliament. To celebrate King James I’s survival, bonfires were lit, a tradition that continues today with fireworks and effigies of Fawkes burned on towering pyres. Lewes, Sussex, hosts the largest Bonfire Night celebrations, also honouring Protestant martyrs from the town’s history. The event combines history, fire and festivity, making it an unforgettable experience across England.
Month: November
Location: Lewes, Sussex, England
4. Sidmouth Folk Festival
Photo: Marshall Colman Marshall46 / Wikimedia Commons
Sidmouth Folk Festival is one of the liveliest festivals in England, held every summer in the charming seaside town of Sidmouth. This week-long celebration is packed with over 700 events, including folk music, dance and songs, spilling into the streets and venues around town. Visitors can enjoy concerts, dance performances, workshops and even root parties. The festival is a true showcase of British traditions and culture. It offers an unforgettable experience for locals and tourists in a beautiful coastal setting.
Month: August
Location: Sidmouth, East Devon, England
5. Shambhala
Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Shambhala is one of the most unique festivals in England, loved for its eco-friendly approach and vibrant atmosphere. Powered sustainably, it offers a packed weekend of fun with 12 stages featuring over 200 musicians. Beyond the music, attendees can enjoy circus acts, comedy, cabaret, poetry and inspiring talks and debates. This festival isn’t just about entertainment. It’s a space for creativity and thought-provoking ideas. Drawing a lively crowd, Shambhala creates a truly unforgettable experience that combines fun, culture and a passion for the planet.
Month: August
Location: Shambhala, England
6. Jorvik Viking Festival
Photo: Jennifer Petrie / Wikimedia Commons
The Jorvik Viking Festival is one of the most exciting festivals in England, celebrating Viking heritage in a unique and lively way. This week-long event in York brings history to life with dramatic combat performances, living history camps, guided walks and traditional crafts. Families can enjoy workshops, feasts and evening entertainment, making it a fun experience for all ages. Locals and visitors alike come together to relive the Viking era and its impact on England. This creates an unforgettable atmosphere filled with culture, learning and celebration.
Month: February
Location: York, England
7. Neverworld
Photo: Syced / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Neverworld is one of the most exciting cultural festivals in England, offering a magical mix of music, creativity and fun. This immersive event features dazzling themes like mermaids, pirates, cabaret, circus acts and even glitter wrestling. With past performances by many top artists, the music scene here is incredible. Beyond the tunes, you can find drag shows, beach games and forest raves. This creates a lively atmosphere of fun and excitement in Kent, in the month of August.
Month: August
Location: Kent, England
8. May Day
May Day is one of the oldest festivals in England, celebrated every year on May 1st. While smaller than in the past, it’s still a charming local tradition with Morris dancers, Maypole dancing and the crowning of a May Queen. Rooted in Anglo-Saxon pagan customs, it is a joyful way to welcome spring and connect with England’s rich history. This timeless celebration is perfect for anyone who loves culture and tradition.
Month: May
Location: Various locations across England including Oxford, Cornwall, Padstow, Hastings, Durham, Whitley Bay, Bristol, Rochester
9. Reading And Leeds Festivals
Photo: Secretlondon / Wikimedia Commons
The Reading and Leeds Festivals are an unmissable part of England’s main festival scene. This takes place on every August bank holiday weekend. These twin music events bring together the biggest global artists across rock, indie, hip-hop genres. Held at Little John’s Farm in Reading and Bramham Park near Leeds, the festivals run simultaneously, with headliners swapping locations each day. Whether you choose Reading or Leeds, both offer a thrilling atmosphere with campsites, weekend camping tickets and day passes. It is the ultimate summer celebration for music lovers.
Month: August
Location: Reading, Berkshire and Leeds, West Yorkshire, England
10. Boomtown Fair
Photo: Sam Warrenger / TheFestivals.UK / Wikimedia Commons
Boomtown Fair is one of the most exciting fairs in England. It is held every August on the stunning Matterley Estate in South Downs National Park near Winchester. Since 2009, this unique event has brought together live bands, electronic DJs, MCs, and performers for a diverse music experience. It is more than just music, but a theatrical journey with immersive performances, stunning set designs and a storyline that evolves each year. Whether you’re into music, theatre, or fantasy, Boomtown offers an unforgettable escape into creativity and fun.
Month: August
Location: Matterley Estate, South Downs National Park, Winchester, England
Festivals in England are the times of celebration when the nation comes together to show the world what it has to offer. Whether you want to dance to the tunes of Glastonbury, appreciate the colours of the Notting Hill Carnival or celebrate traditions like May Day, England has it all. Plan your visit with TripXL during the festival season in England for experiencing an exciting trip.
Cover Photo: Dominika Gregušová / Pexels
