What’s on: bank holiday events near our country houses

Make the most of the last bank holiday before we say goodbye to summer with a stay at our country houses. Not only are they all on the doorstep of some of the UK’s best national parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, but also some fantastic events, festivals, and fairs taking place nearby.  

We’ve put together a handy guide to what’s going on in the stunning locations around our country houses over the August bank holiday weekend (26 to 28 August 2023). 

If you’re keen to find out about local and national breweries, Alnwick Beer Festival is just a 15-minute drive from Nether Grange - our characterful property in the coastal village of Alnmouth.  

From 25 to 27 August, you can sample real ales, beer, and cider on tap (there’s gin, wine, and soft drinks available, too) at this popular annual event held in the marketplace square of Alnwick Town Hall. There’s also live music planned for the Friday and Saturday evenings.  

https://www.alnwickroundtable.co.uk/the-beer-festival.html 

Taking place on the Cotswolds farm of former Blur bassist, Alex James, Big Feastival combines music from the UK's biggest artists, with Michelin star chefs, award-winning street food, and an exciting array of family activities.  

Less than 10 miles from our country house in Bourton-on-the-Water, this family-friendly festival is an action-packed weekend with a knockout lineup of acts including Sigrid, Tom Grennan, Blossoms, The Vaccines, Rick Astley, and Melanie C. You can also expect incredible chefs such as Asma Khan, Nathan Outlaw and Anna Haugh, plus loads more entertainment across its three-day run from Friday 25 August. 

https://thebigfeastival.com/ 

This week-long celebration of both Welsh and international music, culture, and heritage takes place between 20 to 27 August. You can make the most of seeing acclaimed musicians and choirs while staying at our country house in the heart of Snowdonia (Eryri) National Park. Located in the charming village of Dolgellau, Dolserau Hall, is just half an hour away from this popular event.  

Highlights include internationally renowned pianist Elisabeth Leonskaja, the dynamic Brecon Baroque ensemble, the male voice choir concert with Côr Godre’r Aran, and the senastional Júlia Kozáková with her Roma Band. 

https://moma.cymru/en/about/festival/ 

Backed by the impressive limestone landscapes of Malham Cove, this one-day event on the 26 August brings together the local farming community in the Yorkshire Dales.  

There’ll be cattle and sheep competitions, working dog displays, and prizes awarded to some truly mammoth fruits and vegetables. You’ll also find a feast of local fare on offer with everything from street food vendors selling wood fired pizzas and crepes to traditional pies and fish and chips. Best of all, our country house at Newfield Hall is little more than a 10-minute drive from the action.   

https://www.malhamshow.co.uk/ 

There’s plenty to look forward to at our historic country property in the Exmoor village of Selworthy. But stay at Holnicote House over the August bank holiday weekend and you can take the opportunity to go walking in neighbouring Somerset on a free walking festival hosted by Mendip Ramblers. 

With walks to suit all experience levels, you can choose from three morning walks (6,9, or 12 miles) or take part in a leisurely family walk in the afternoon.  

https://www.mendipramblers.co.uk/2-uncategorised/131-wells-walking-festival-poster-2023.html 

A whole week of music, dance, and songs from the British Isles is coming to Whitby from the 19 to 25 August. You can buy either a season or day ticket and choose from around 600 events, including workshops, concerts, dances, and storytelling during Whitby Folk Week. 

Given that our country house at Larpool Hall is within walking distance of Whitby, there are few reasons not to take part in the fun.  

https://www.whitbyfolk.co.uk/ 

Our stately Scottish home in North Ballachulish boasts an enviable setting on the shores of Loch Leven and scenery that’s every bit as rugged and romantic as you’d expect. And when you’re not busy admiring the landscapes surrounding Alltshellach, you can learn about them.  

Running just after the bank holiday from 1 September to 8 October, the Scottish Geology Festival allows you to dig deep into the stories under Scotland’s rocks. There will be guided walks, talks, boat rides, and exhibitions taking place which are sure to add another layer to a holiday in the Scottish Highlands. 

https://www.scottishgeologytrust.org/festival/