The 21st of June marks the official start of summer – undoubtedly a season filled with endless good times for all the family. Here, you can discover our pick of the most exciting things to look forward to throughout June, helping you kick the summer off with a bang!
1. Derby Festival (Epsom Downs Racecourse)
The Epsom Derby Festival promises two days of unmissable equine events. One of the most highly anticipated sporting affairs in the UK, it attracts royalty, celebs, and thousands of racing fanatics. Friday 2nd of June is the iconic Ladies’ Day, a chance to get dressed up, grab a drink and enjoy the racing all afternoon. Saturday 3rd of June is the infamous Derby Day. This year, you can watch the 244th run of what has been dubbed the world’s greatest Flat race. If horse racing is your kind of thing, you have to experience the Derby Festival this June.
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2. Trooping the Colour
June 17th sees thousands of people flock to the capital to get a glimpse of the Trooping the Colour ceremony. Taking place every year to mark the birthday of the British Sovereign, many regiments of the British Army will be present. That includes over 1,000 parading soldiers, hundreds of horses, and praiseworthy musicians. They’ll take part in a parade throughout London, beginning at Buckingham Palace and ending at the Horse Guards Parade. The British Sovereign and the Royal family will travel the same route. This monumental day famously ends with members of the Royal Family lined up on the Buckingham Palace balcony to see the RAF fly-past. Why not grab your flags and join the upbeat crowds to watch the event unfold?
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3. The Emirates FA Cup Final
At the beginning of the month on June 3rd is the men’s Emirates FA Cup Final, an event which always promises drama and excitement. And this year will be no exception with an all-Manchester line up, but who will take home the trophy? You’d better get prepped for the game – no doubt it’ll be a nail-biter with City aiming for a treble of titles this year, whilst United will give it all to prevent them from equalling their achievement in 1999. Unless you were lucky enough to bag tickets to the final at Wembley Stadium, head to a viewing party in the city to soak up the buzz of the event.
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4. Taste of London Festival
Foodies, unite – the ever famous Taste of London Festival is back for another year! Taking place in Regent’s Park, the festival spans 5 days and will feature 40 of the city’s best restaurants. You can get up close and personal to some of the world’s most sensational chefs by taking part in a masterclass, tasting their creations, and watching demonstrations. And there’ll even be an incredible lineup of artisan producers offering one-of-a-kind eats and drool-worthy drinks just for you. Consider the Taste of London Festival the place to experience the best of The Big Smoke’s culinary scene.
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5. Isle of Wight Festival
Love jamming out to incredible music? It’s time to get your groove on at the Isle of Wight Festival! This year, from June 15th-18th, you can see stellar performances from some of the biggest names in the industry. We’re talking George Ezra, Niall Horan, Anne-Marie, and even old-school icons such as Robbie Williams, Sugababes, and Mika. Why not bag your ticket and make a long weekend of it? The Isle of Wight is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places to visit – especially in the summer!
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6. Jane Austen Regency Week
If you’re a lover of classic Jane Austen novels such as Pride and Prejudice and Sense and Sensibility, then why not get involved during Jane Austen Regency Week? Held in Alton and Chawton, Hampshire, nearby to Austen’s former home, and run by volunteers, there’ll be lots to do throughout the week from June 17th to 25th. As one of the most highly acclaimed writers in English literature, this annual event celebrates her work. But it’s also an opportunity to celebrate history. Expect a parade for literacy, a wholesome picnic, Alton Regency Day, and lots more.
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7. Pride Cymru Festival
Want to play your part in fighting for equality and acceptance of diversity? Pride Cymru 2023 is organised by a volunteer-led charity to stop discrimination in every aspect, not just towards the LGBTQ+ community. The iconic parade will take place on Saturday 17th of June, where thousands will march in unison through Cardiff to show support. There’ll also be chilled out drinks areas, food stalls, engaging workshops, and live music performances to enjoy throughout both Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th. Expect to see some big names and local talent as you soak up the joys of Pride Cymru alongside thousands of others!
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8. Stonehenge Summer Solstice
Did you know? The infamous Stonehenge was erected to align with the sun on the solstices in midsummer and midwinter. On June 21st, the sun will rise behind the Heel Stone, where blinding rays will then flood into the centre of the monument to mark the longest day of the year. Visitors typically arrive the evening before to secure their viewing location and watch the sunset. However, the event will be live-streamed to enable everyone around the globe a chance to witness this beautiful moment. Whether watching in-person or from afar, as dawn breaks and the light emerges, we’re sure you’ll agree that the Stonehenge Summer Solstice is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
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9. Royal Ascot
It’s time to get dressed up – Royal Ascot commences on Tuesday 20th of June and runs until Saturday 24th. This prestigious event sees some of the best racing horses go head-to-head on the world-renowned racecourse. With a myriad of fine dining experiences available, you’re sure to see exquisite, high-end fashion choices whilst you’re there. The ever-so- sophisticated Royal family usually makes an appearance and you’ll likely see a flurry of other famous faces, too. Ultimately, if you enjoy the buzz of horse racing and are craving a little luxury, Royal Ascot is the place to be this June.
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10. The Royal Highland Show
If rural living is your kind of thing, attending The Royal Highland Show will surely be one of your June highlights. This fantastic annual event begins on Thursday 22nd of June and runs for 4 packed-out days until Sunday 25th. It’s a chance to taste some of the finest foods, embrace the best of farming, and immerse in the wonders of rural life. There’ll be lots to see and do, including the Grand Parade, a showcase of extraordinary cattle breeds, show jumping, sheep shearing, shopping, and live music performances! You’d best plan your itinerary before you arrive – the event offers endless opportunities for a brilliant day.
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11. Bristol Pride Festival
Embrace diversity this summer at Bristol Pride, an inclusive festival running for just over 2 weeks beginning June 24th. Aimed at celebrating the LGBTQ+ community, thousands will head to the city to reduce isolation, stand against prejudice and hate, and make new connections. Get ready to hang out with like-minded people whilst enjoying lots of singing and dancing, and indulging in unmissable food, drink, and market stalls. Most importantly, make sure you’re there for the Parade March. This walk through the city covers roughly 2 miles and is a chance for everyone to celebrate, support, and protest for LGBTQ+ human rights in the loudest way possible!
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