Summer sun, vibrant festivals and a bursting calendar of events – the UK has something for everyone to enjoy in July! ⛱️
We’ve got a jam-packed list of 23 unique experiences and things to do in the UK in July 2026 for you to discover. From iconic musical events to historical landmarks bathed in summer sun and hidden gems waiting to be uncovered – let’s get planning your UK summer staycation today.
1. 2026 Wimbledon Championships
29th June – 12th July 2026
July is set to ‘serve’ up plenty of iconic events in the British calendar, but none are quite as entertaining and thrilling as the Wimbledon Tennis Championships. Renowned as one of the oldest and most prestigious tennis tournaments in the world, Wimbledon is beloved for its outstanding wins, traditional all-white attire and being the only one of the four tennis slams played on grass courts.
With a unique ticketing system giving visitors the chance to bag high-demand, premium seats on the Centre and No.1 Courts, the ‘Queue’ is truly part of the Wimbledon experience. Grab a Standard Grounds ticket to access all courts and Henman Hill, where you can catch all the action from Centre and No.1 Courts. But if you’re looking to grab the limited Show Court tickets, we recommend arriving as early as you can! Check out our guide to Wimbledon here.
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2. Henley Royal Regatta
30th June – 5th July 2026
Calling all sporting enthusiasts (or just fans of a good race!). Mark your calendars for this truly British July event – the Henley Royal Regatta. This splendid annual rowing event, steeped in tradition since 1839, is more than just your average boat race. It’s the ultimate summer social occasion, attracting international rowing crews and spectators from across the globe.
Discover the exhilarating energy of world-class athletes battling it out on the water. Plus, you don’t have to be royalty to enjoy the regatta! Tickets range from seated general admission to luxurious hospitality packages. Or pack a picnic basket, a fold-up chair and perhaps a bottle of Pimms and soak up the atmosphere of the non-ticketed Little Lion Meadow area – open to all and no ticket required.
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2. Cocktails in the City
2nd – 7th July 2026
Get ready for a fantastic treat because ‘Cocktails in the City’ is returning to London this July for a weekend of clinking of glasses, fresh mixology ingredients and the happy chatter of fellow cocktail enthusiasts. This is your chance to explore a whole world of drinks, all conveniently gathered in one place.
Sample unique concoctions from some of London’s best bars and spirit brands in their tasting rooms, learn a trick or two from the talented bartenders at the cocktail masterclass, and even try your hand at an ice carving workshop! It’s the perfect opportunity to gather your friends, soak up the summer vibes and indulge in some seriously delicious mixology creations.
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4. British Grand Prix 2026
3rd – 5th July 2026
Calling all petrolheads! ️This July, the roar of Formula 1 engines returns to the UK as the British Grand Prix blasts into Silverstone Circuit. Witness the world’s best drivers push their cars to the limit with over 52 heart-stopping laps.
But why just watch one day when you can make it a whole weekend getaway? Head to Silverstone’s early British GP Opening Concert with headliners Chase & Status, Rag ‘N’ Bone Man and David Guetta launching this epic weekend of sport. And the fun doesn’t stop when the checkered flag drops on Sunday! Silverstone comes alive with after-race parties featuring DJs and special guest performances all weekend long.
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5. Monmouth Medieval Festival 2026
4th – 5th July 2026
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If you’re looking to travel back in time this summer, look no further than the Monmouth Medieval Festival. This free two-day celebration transforms the historic town of Monmouth into a bustling 15th-century hub. As the birthplace of Henry V, Monmouth provides the perfect authentic backdrop, with events spreading across Vauxhall Fields, the iconic Monnow Bridge, and the ruins of Monmouth Castle. It’s a fantastic way to spend a July weekend, offering a mix of high-energy spectacle and hands-on history that feels more like a community party than a dusty museum visit.
The festival is packed with activities that will keep both kids and history buffs entertained. Whether you’re browsing the medieval market for unique crafts or catching a themed film at the Savoy Theatre, it’s a brilliant, budget-friendly addition to any UK summer itinerary.
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6. Live music in the UK in July 2026
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🎵 Wolf Alice @ Finsbury Park – 5th July 2026
Wolf Alice is bringing it all back home with a massive headline show at Finsbury Park this July and it’s shaping up to be an absolute highlight of the summer! This landmark homecoming gig is their biggest to date, celebrating their fourth album, The Clearing, alongside a stellar lineup featuring The Last Dinner Party, Florence Road and Rachel Chinouriri.
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🎵 Truck Festival – 23rd – 26th July 2026
Truck Festival is gearing up to be the highlight of the summer this July, bringing its signature mix of indie anthems and feel-good vibes back to Hill Farm in Oxfordshire. Truck Festival is the perfect place to catch your favourite headliners and discover rising stars while soaking up that uniquely friendly, community-focused atmosphere. And best of all, the line-up is outstanding: Maccabees, Two Door Cinema Club and The Wombats to name just a few.
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🎵 Latitude Festival – 23rd – 25th July 2026
Get ready for a magical milestone as Latitude Festival celebrates its 20th anniversary at the beautiful Henham Park in Suffolk! The weekend is shaping up to be an unforgettable mix of music and arts, featuring incredible headliners like David Byrne, Teddy Swims and Lewis Capaldi. Beyond the main stages, you can lose yourself in forest clearings filled with comedy, check out the iconic pink sheep or enjoy a peaceful swim in the lake.
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🎵 Maroon 5, Lewis Capaldi, Pitbull & Mumford & Sons @ BST Hyde Park – 3rd, 4th, 10th, 11th & 12th July 2026
Get ready for an incredible summer in London, because the BST Hyde Park 2026 lineup is looking absolutely spectacular! Maroon 5 kicks things off, bringing their massive pop hits to the Great Oak Stage. Mumford & Sons will be taking over Saturday with a night of stomping folk-rock. The party really picks up the following week, as Pitbull (Mr Worldwide himself) turns Hyde Park into a giant dance floor. And finally, Lewis Capaldi wraps up the festivities with two unforgettable headline shows.
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7. RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival
8th – 12th July 2026
Returning this July, the RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival is the perfect way to discover the wonderful world of gardening amongst the historic grounds of the Hampton Court Palace. Known as the world’s largest festival of flowers, the RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival spans a whopping 34 acres, taking organisers a staggering 21 days to set up!
Visitors can expect everything from engaging talks and demos to valuable insights and plenty of tips for keeping their gardens in tip-top shape. Explore gorgeous and thought-provoking floral displays and discover industry discussions surrounding gardening and sustainability. There’s even an opportunity to enjoy some high tea!
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8. Alice’s Day, Oxford
4th July 2026
Get ready to have a tea-riffic time in Oxford this summer! July 4th marks the return of Alice’s Day, a fantastical annual celebration of everyone’s favourite whimsical tale. Held at the Story Museum, this jam-packed day is bursting with grinning Cheshire cat-worthy fun for all ages.
With plenty of delightful activities to dive into, from creative craft workshops and wacky theatre shows to family-friendly games and exciting trails, this year’s theme is ‘Fabulous Monsters and Curious Creatures.’
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9. Summer Opening at Buckingham Palace
9th July – 27th September 2026
Grab a glimpse into royal life this summer as Buckingham Palace opens its doors to visitors for 10 glorious weeks. This year, the festivities at the palace begin on July 9th! Book a guided tour and explore the iconic Throne Room, Ballroom and Palace Gardens where King Charles III and the Royal Family entertain guests. Walk the extravagant halls of Buckingham Palace and explore all its history and grandeur.
Visiting London for the first time this July? A trip to Buckingham Palace is a must for anyone fascinated by the monarchy. Book your tickets and get ready to feel like royalty yourself.
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10. The 154th Open at Royal Birkdale
12th – 15th July 2026
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This July, get ready to witness a slice of sporting history at the Open Championship. Nicknamed “The Open”, this prestigious tournament is the oldest of golf’s four major championships. From the 12th to the 15th of July, the action tees off at the magnificent Royal Birkdale Golf Club in Merseyside, England.
Boasting a history that stretches back to 1860, this iconic golf tournament will unfold on Royal Birkdale’s legendary ground, promising a week of world-class golf and memorable sporting moments. And if you’re a die-hard golf fan, the Open Championship promises an unforgettable experience. So grab your tickets (they’ll vanish faster than a birdie putt!) and get ready to immerse yourself in the thrilling competition of this legendary tournament.
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11. Somerset House Summer Series
16th – 26th July 2026
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Somerset House Summer Series is back in London from the 16th to the 26th of July 2026, and the lineup is looking fantastic! Catch the infectious energy of Palace, the soulful sounds of Naïka and the brilliant Agnes Obel. And if you’re a fan of indie rock, you won’t want to miss The Cribs.
Soak up the atmosphere in the gorgeous Somerset House courtyard while listening to some incredible tunes. Somerset House Summer Series promises some unforgettable nights of music right in the heart of London – grab your tickets now!
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12. Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival
17th – 26th July 2026
Attention all lovers of jazz and blues! The Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival is sure to elevate your passion for these music genres this July. Taking place in Scotland’s capital, from the 17th to the 26th July, this iconic musical event has become one of the most beloved jazz festivals in Europe and an anticipated July event in Edinburgh.
With a 10-day schedule packed with over 170 performances, the Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival has something for every musical taste. Plus, with diverse music styles interwoven throughout the festival, including funk and hip-hop, expect to see one-of-a-kind performances throughout the local parks, clubs and even the city’s grandest concert halls.
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13. Birmingham Mela 2026
26th July 2026
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This July, Birmingham is throwing a HUGE party celebrating South Asian culture – and you’re invited! The Birmingham Mela is the biggest South Asian music festival in Europe. Prepare for a spectacular weekend of incredible music, with over 150 artists taking the stage at Victoria Park, Smethwick.
But it’s not just about the music! With over 30 food stalls tempting your taste buds with delicious South Asian flavours, plus a gorgeous shopping bazaar selling unique crafts and souvenirs, immerse yourself in the rich culture of South Asia. There’s even a funfair to keep the little ones entertained, as well as breathtaking visual performances to feast your eyes on.
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14. Prehistoric Planet: Discovering Dinosaurs at Lightroom
Ongoing from 18th July 2026
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This July, a seriously roar-some immersive adventure is coming to the iconic Lightroom in London. Prehistoric Planet: Discovering Dinosaurs is like stepping into the fascinating era when Dinosaurs walked the Earth. Surround yourself with stunning visuals of prehistoric creatures in their natural habitats. We’re talking about the amazing creatures from the Apple TV+ series brought to life on a massive scale, with incredible sound design that really makes you feel like you’re right there with them.
From the majestic Tyrannosaurus rex to the graceful long-necked sauropods, you’ll get to witness these ancient giants in a whole new way. It’s not just a static display; it’s an engaging experience that uses the latest technology to transport you millions of years back in time.
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15. Check out the prettiest rooftop bars in the UK
July in the UK – sunshine (hopefully!), warm nights and the perfect excuse to grab some friends and head out for a night of cocktails, mocktails and cheeky pints. But what if you could take things up a notch? The UK boasts some seriously stunning rooftop bars, offering incredible cityscapes and swanky vibes. So if you’re looking to add a touch of glamour to your July plans, look no further!
Sip on delicious creations with the city lights twinkling around you. For some inspiration, we found this rounded up the top 10 rooftop bars across Britain here! From swanky London spots to hidden gems in Liverpool, Leeds, Bristol and much more, you’re sure to find the perfect place to perch and enjoy the view. Now, all that’s left to do is pick your next favourite spot, grab your besties and get ready for a night to remember.
16. The BBC Proms
17th July – 12th September 2026
Get ready for an epic summer of music! The BBC Proms are back for eight amazing weeks starting on the 17th July. With world-class musicians performing incredible classical concerts inside the stunning Royal Albert Hall, The Proms dates back to 1895!
With special performances from Ambrose Akinmusire and Thomas Adès, the 2026 Proms calendar even features a night of James Bond melodies. If you enjoy experiencing splendid classical music, a visit to the BBC Proms is the ultimate July activity!
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17. Bristol Harbour Festival
19th – 21st July 2026
Sunshine, good vibes and a celebration of all things Bristol – that’s what the Bristol Harbour Festival is all about! This July, from the 19th to the 21st, prepare for a massive free party along the city’s stunning harbourside. Every year, Bristolians come together with visitors from all over to soak up the city’s unique atmosphere. It’s a chance to celebrate Bristol’s rich maritime history, diverse communities and incredible local talent.
The beating heart of the festival is the Amphitheatre. Here you’ll find pumping DJ sets, delicious food and drinks to keep you fueled, and the best seats in the house for some seriously cool water displays. But that’s not all! Millennium Square and Queen’s Square are also buzzing with activity, offering everything from live music to local crafts. And for the little ones, the fantastic children’s area is packed with fun activities to keep them entertained for hours.
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18. Rock Oyster Festival
23rd – 26th July 2026
Get ready to rock out and slurp down some deliciousness this summer! The Rock Oyster Festival is back for another year of culinary delights and outstanding musical moments! This award-nominated festival isn’t just about oysters (although those will be plentiful and incredible, of course).
This four-day music and food festival on the stunning Cornish coast fuses the top UK artists with Michelin-starred chefs and creative food stalls, offering everything from fresh locally caught seafood to mind-blowing foodie adventures. Whether you’re an oyster aficionado or just appreciate a good party with phenomenal food, this UK food festival has something for everyone.
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19. 2026 Commonwealth Games Glasgow
23rd July – 2nd August 2026
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If you’re looking for the ultimate summer of sport, Glasgow is the place to be this July! The 2026 Commonwealth Games are officially returning to the city throughout July and August, turning Scotland’s largest city into an 11-day festival of sport and culture. Most of the action will be taking place across four iconic venues, including the Emirates Arena and the Scottish Event Campus (SEC).
Whether you’re a die-hard athletics fan or just there for the electric atmosphere, the city’s legendary ‘People Make Glasgow’ spirit will be in full swing, making it impossible not to get swept up in the excitement. Beyond the podium finishes and gold medals, Glasgow in July is a dream for any traveller. Between events, you can wander through the West End’s cobbled lanes or explore the world-class (and free!) art at Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. The city is also planning a massive cultural festival to run alongside the sports, so expect live music, street food markets and pop-up celebrations on every corner.
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20. Newcastle Pride
25th – 26th July 2026
Mark your calendars! Newcastle Pride is returning this July, bigger and better than ever! Run by not-for-profit Curious Futures, Newcastle Pride’s three-day celebration is themed ‘City of Hope, Streets of Joy’ for 2026.
The heart of the action is the Festival Arena, where you can see famous performers, dance the night away at cabarets and grab some tasty food and drinks. And you don’t want to miss the Curious Arts Stage! But the highlight of the weekend is the Pride march on Saturday. So come on down, show your support for the LGBTQ+ community and get ready for a weekend of fun, friendship and fabulous vibes!
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At Travelodge, Pride is part of our DNA. And 2026 has a jam-packed LGBTQIA+ calendar. We’ve narrowed down our picks of the best Pride events in the UK, Ireland and Spaine best Pride events in the UK, Ireland and Spain here.
21. Great British Food Festival @ Holdenby House
25th & 26th July 2026
Put the 25th and 26th of July on your calendars for a treat and get ready for sunshine, stunning grounds and delicious food at the Great British Food Festival at Holdenby House this July!
There’s something to satisfy every craving! Plus, this year promises to be extra special with a lineup of celebrity chefs and bakers. So grab your picnic blanket (and your appetite!), gather your loved ones and head to Holdenby House for a weekend of feasting and exploring the very best of British food and drink!
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22. Wales Airshow
25th & 26th July 2026
Looking for family fun and exciting things to do in July? Get ready for some serious wow factor this summer, because the Wales Airshow is back and it’s completely free! Taking place at Swansea Bay, witness incredible jets soaring through the sky and performing daring aerial acrobatics. But the fun doesn’t stop there!
On the ground, you’ll find a festival atmosphere with delicious food stalls to tempt your taste buds, live bands setting the beat and amusement rides to keep everyone entertained. So pack your picnic blanket, grab your sunglasses and get ready for an unforgettable weekend at the Wales Airshow.
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23. Camp Bestival Dorset
30th July – 3rd August 2026
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Spice up your July and buckle up, because Camp Bestival Dorset is here to turn your summer staycation into an epic adventure! Taking place from July 30th to August 3rd at the majestic Lulworth Castle, this family fiesta features everything from lush green fields and a three-day lineup of big-name artists to a festival funfair for all ages. The musical line-up for 2026 features Fatboy Slim, Bastille and Self Esteem.
And best of all, Camp Bestival is all about good vibes and keeping things green. They focus on yummy local food and have a mission to make the festival as eco-friendly as possible. So you can relax, have fun and know you’re doing your part for the planet. So grab your tickets and get ready for an unforgettable family weekend!
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