Cornwall Council’s decision to end the Newquay to London Gatwick Public Service Obligation route has generated discussion about its financial and economic implications.
The Cabinet voted on 13 February 2026 to remove Cornwall Council’s £1.5 million annual contribution to the subsidised Newquay – London service. On paper, that looks like a clear saving in a budget that also includes a 4.99 per cent Council Tax rise.
The focus is no longer simply the cost of the PSO. It is whether ending it genuinely improves Cornwall Council’s finances, or whether it risks weakening the wider position of Cornwall Airport Newquay.
This article builds on our earlier report examining the political and operational implications of the PSO decision, and focuses specifically on the financial arithmetic behind it.
What Was the Cost of the Newquay to London PSO?
The interim PSO contract was scheduled to end in May 2026, with a new four-year agreement due to commence in June 2026. That longer-term contract was estimated at £14–£16 million, split 50:50 between the Department for Transport and Cornwall Council.
That meant Cornwall Council’s share would have been approximately £1.5 to £2 million per year.
The 2026/27 Cornwall Council budget includes a £1.5 million saving, reflecting the decision to withdraw that support.
In straightforward budget terms, the Council has removed that cost.
The Political Case for Ending the Subsidy
The decision followed a recommendation from the Budget Development Overview and Scrutiny Committee. Cllr Drew Creek, Leader of the Green Party Group, confirmed he proposed the removal of the Newquay – London flights PSO funding, seconded by a Labour councillor. The recommendation secured cross-party backing before being accepted by the Cabinet.
Cllr Creek said that, at a time when residents were facing a 4.99 per cent Council Tax increase in 2026, and the Council was reducing spending elsewhere, “spending £1.5 million a year subsidising flights between Newquay and Gatwick was simply not justifiable.”
The Liberal Democrat and Independent administration supported the move, arguing that a commercially viable London route should be achievable without subsidy if demand genuinely exists.
The Skybus Intervention
On 19 February, Jonathan Hinkles wrote to Cornwall Council Leader Cllr Leigh Frost, raising concerns about the financial consequences of ending the Newquay–Gatwick flights in 2026.
Mr Hinkles stated that the PSO route generates over £2 million per year in aeronautical charges and around £0.5 million in non-aeronautical income for Cornwall Airport Newquay — a combined £2.5 million annually.
Those figures are understood to be based on the airline’s internal bid modelling and its assessment of airport charging structures. They have not, however, been independently confirmed by Cornwall Airport Newquay or Cornwall Council.
However, as an experienced regional aviation executive, Mr Hinkles would be familiar with how airport revenue is typically structured, including the balance between landing charges, passenger fees and commercial income.
Regional airports also tend to operate with high fixed costs and relatively low marginal costs per additional flight. That limits the scope to offset a significant loss of traffic quickly solely through cost savings. In that context, the revenue impact cited is not implausible.
His central argument is straightforward: removing a £1.5 million subsidy while simultaneously removing up to £2.5 million in airport revenue does not automatically strengthen the Council’s finances.
He also questioned the Council’s risk modelling, referring to the 2026/27 budget’s expected £1.243 million dividend from the Corserv group (the Council-owned holding company for Cornwall Airport Newquay) and the 5 per cent probability of non-receipt applied in the published risk schedule. In his letter, he suggested that the likelihood of dividend disruption may now be higher than 5 per cent.
Cornwall Airport Newquay: Passenger Recovery and Financial Fragility
Cornwall Airport Newquay has recovered strongly from the pandemic. Passenger numbers rose from just 67,877 in 2020 to over 415,000 in 2024, according to Civil Aviation Authority statistics.
Yet recovery in passenger numbers does not necessarily equal financial resilience.
Published Corserv accounts show that Cornwall Airport Ltd has reported underlying losses before group support adjustments in recent years, even as revenue has grown. In 2023/24, airport revenue exceeded £20 million, alongside a pre-group funding loss of £4.11 million. 2024/25 figures indicate revenue has continued to rise, but underlying losses remain material prior to group support.
In simple terms, the airport is economically important but financially fragile.
The airport publicly welcomed Skybus when it began operating the interim Newquay to London Gatwick PSO service in November 2025. However, at the time of writing, the airport has not issued a detailed public statement addressing the loss of the route beyond May 2026, nor has it outlined any confirmed replacement London operator or timetable.
Credit: Pexels/WordPress
The Simple Maths Behind the Debate
The arithmetic at the centre of this debate can be expressed plainly.
If Cornwall Council saves £1.5 million by ending the PSO, but the airport loses £2.5 million in revenue that is not replaced, the wider council-owned system (and taxpayers) could be £1 million worse off.
However, that outcome depends on one crucial factor: commercial replacement.
If an airline operates a London service without subsidy and broadly maintains current revenue levels, the Council’s £1.5 million saving becomes real and lasting. But as we have previously argued, the chances of securing a commercially viable, year-round operator without public support appear uncertain in current market conditions.
That does not mean the airport has no alternatives. Cornwall Airport Newquay can seek to grow revenue through other routes, revised commercial agreements, increased passenger volumes, property development, land leasing, estate income and wider enterprise activity linked to Aerohub and Spaceport Cornwall. Airports are complex commercial ecosystems, not single-route businesses.
However, those forms of growth take time, capital and stable airline partnerships. They are not immediate substitutes for the loss of a defined revenue stream.
If no viable replacement emerges and alternative revenue growth does not materialise at sufficient scale, the airport deficit will not stand still. It will grow. In that case, the £1.5 million saving risks becoming a transfer of pressure rather than a reduction of cost. The Council’s strategy ultimately depends on delivering a commercially sustainable alternative.
The Value of the Airport to the Local Economy
Cornwall Airport Newquay is more than a passenger gateway. It is home to the Aerohub Enterprise Zone and Spaceport Cornwall, both intended to attract aerospace, engineering and advanced manufacturing businesses to the county.
Local business leaders have long argued that reliable London connectivity underpins inward investment, recruitment, and higher-value economic activity. The Cornwall Chamber of Commerce has previously described daily London flights as important for attracting talent and supporting business growth.
There is also a tourism dimension. Cornwall’s visitor economy is worth well over £2 billion annually, and while the majority of visitors arrive by car, air connectivity plays a disproportionate role in higher-spending segments, including overseas visitors and short-break travellers. Even a modest number of additional inbound passengers can translate into significant local spending across hotels, restaurants and attractions.
The airport supports direct and indirect employment, supply chain contracts, emergency services operations and commercial estate income. Its economic impact, therefore, extends beyond ticket sales alone.
Even critics of the subsidy generally accept that the airport is strategically important to Cornwall’s economy. The disagreement is not over whether it matters, but over how that role should be funded and how much ongoing public support is justified.
Who Used the Route?
One line repeated in the political debate is that the route mainly served business travellers and second-home owners.
However, we have not been able to identify any detailed passenger breakdown in the published Cabinet papers or supporting documentation to substantiate that claim. In the absence of publicly available journey purpose data, it is not possible to independently verify who made up the majority of passengers.
But the route is also believed to have served a wider mix of users, including Cornwall residents travelling for work, health, and family reasons, inbound leisure visitors, overseas connections via Gatwick, students, and those making onward international journeys.
PSO routes exist because markets do not always sustain services considered economically important. They are designed to protect regional connectivity rather than to benefit any specific group.
How Full Were the Skybus Flights?
It has been claimed that flights were “80 per cent empty” after Skybus stepped in. That headline figure requires careful interpretation.
The interim service was operated with aircraft larger than originally planned, following the collapse of Blue Islands and the earlier instability at Eastern Airways. When a larger aircraft is deployed on a route originally sized for a smaller regional turboprop, percentage load factors will inevitably appear weaker, even if absolute passenger numbers are broadly comparable.
Those figures also need to be viewed in context. The route had experienced a loss of trust and reliability under the previous operator. Restoring passenger confidence, particularly during the winter season, was always likely to take time.
Load factors, therefore, need to be assessed across a full year, using the appropriate aircraft type, and against the backdrop of market disruption rather than in isolation.
Environmental Impact: Reduction or Displacement?
Ending a subsidised domestic flight does not automatically reduce emissions.
Some passengers may switch to rail, particularly if travelling to central London. A direct train from Cornwall to Paddington generally has a lower carbon footprint per passenger than a short-haul flight, especially when trains are well loaded. For certain journeys, rail is a credible alternative.
Some may opt for a hybrid journey: drive part of the way, then take the train. Others may still fly, but from a different airport. In those cases, aviation emissions do not disappear. They are displaced geographically rather than removed.
Others may simply change their route. Those who still choose to travel may opt for the car instead. That shift adds mileage to the road network and, depending on occupancy and vehicle type, could increase overall emissions rather than reduce them.
Load factors also matter. A fuller aircraft spreads emissions across more passengers, lowering per-passenger impact. A lightly loaded aircraft does the opposite. The same principle applies to trains. Environmental performance depends not only on the mode of transport, but on how efficiently it is used.
If a commercial London City or other London service were introduced without subsidy, the aircraft would generate broadly similar per-flight emissions to the current route. The per-passenger outcome would depend on aircraft type and occupancy levels, not on whether the seat was subsidised.
The key issue is substitution behaviour. What matters environmentally is what people do instead. If a meaningful share switches from air to rail, emissions fall. If passengers drive further and still fly, emissions may rise. Ending the PSO changes the funding model. It does not, on its own, guarantee a lower carbon outcome.
So Has Cornwall Council Saved Money?
In narrow budget terms, yes. The Council has removed around £1.5 million from its revenue spending each year.
But that is only one side of the story.
The saving is real only if the airport can replace that lost activity at the same pace. That may mean attracting and sustaining a viable London route without subsidy, maintaining broadly similar passenger numbers and aeronautical income. But it could also mean growing revenue in other ways: new routes, increased frequencies, higher load factors, expanded commercial operations, property income, land development or wider enterprise activity on the airport estate.
Cornwall Airport Newquay is said to support around £100 million in Gross Value Added to the local economy. That figure reflects not just ticket sales but also wider business activity, tourism, supply chains, and employment linked to the airport. If connectivity weakens and traffic falls materially, the economic effect would extend beyond the airport balance sheet.
The Council has indicated it hopes to secure a London City operator. In current industry conditions, with constrained regional aircraft capacity and tight margins, that looks challenging without some form of financial support. The market for small regional aircraft is tight, capacity is constrained, and airlines are cautious.
If no meaningful commercial replacement emerges, airport income could fall, and underlying losses could widen. In that scenario, the headline £1.5 million saving could be offset by greater financial pressure within the council-owned group.
It also reopens a longer-term question about the Council’s appetite to continue owning and financially supporting a structurally loss-making airport. Plans by the previous administration to sell Cornwall Airport Newquay were formally scrapped by the new Cabinet in June 2025, which chose to retain local control. The current PSO decision, therefore, sits within a wider strategic context regarding ownership, risk, and the airport’s long-term role within the Council’s commercial portfolio.
There is also the question of local operators. Some will ask why the Council appears unwilling or unable to structure support for a Cornwall-based airline such as Skybus, particularly given its recent role operating the interim PSO service. A longer-term arrangement might not only have retained London connectivity but also allowed a Cornwall-based carrier to expand further at the airport, strengthening the local aviation base.
That option has not been fully explained in public.
The central question is therefore unavoidable: has the Council reduced a manageable annual cost, or has it introduced a wider strategic risk to an airport said to generate around £100 million for the Cornish economy?
Over to you – what’s your view on this story? Please share your perspective in the comments below, or join the conversation on our Facebook Group.
New to South West England or returning after a while? Start with our ‘Travel Basics’ – quick guides packed with tips to help you plan your trip.
Information in this article is correct to the best of our knowledge as of 20 February 2026. It is based on publicly available statements from Skybus, Cornwall Council, Cornwall Airport Newquay, the Department for Transport and other referenced sources.
This article is provided for general information and analysis only and should not be treated as official travel advice. Flight schedules, operational arrangements, airport charges, aircraft types, staffing plans and fare details may change at short notice. Readers should confirm the latest information directly with Skybus, Cornwall Airport Newquay or the relevant airline before making travel plans.
Financial commentary reflects interpretation of published documents and publicly stated figures. Conclusions may be revised if further confirmed information or official disclosures become available.
This page may be updated if additional verified information emerges.
Credit: Isles of Scilly Steamship Company / Skybus
Cornwall Council’s Cabinet decided on Friday, 13 February 2026, to end support for the London Public Service Obligation route from Cornwall Airport Newquay. The decision has prompted significant debate across the county and within the aviation sector.
As a result, the interim operator, Isles of Scilly Skybus, confirmed that its London Gatwick PSO service will cease by 31 May 2026, with full refunds offered to passengers booked beyond that date.
In its press release, Skybus Managing Director Jonathan Hinkles described the timing as:
“bitterly ironic – on Friday 13th of all days, and in the week where passenger loads have been at their highest since the PSO resumed under Skybus operation – that the Council has voted to close the route”.
He added that Skybus was the only airline to submit proposals to continue the PSO beyond May, offering four options, and said the Council declined to enter dialogue over what he described as “a single disputed element” of airport fees and charges.
What this means for passengers and staff
For passengers already booked beyond 31 May 2026, Skybus has confirmed that full refunds will be offered. Travellers will now need to consider alternative options, either via the existing commercial Stansted service, rail to London Paddington, or other connecting routes.
The decision also has implications for employment. Skybus had planned to operate the PSO using ATR 72 aircraft and had indicated that it intended to base crew locally in Cornwall. While the airline has long-standing operations in the region, the end of the PSO removes the certainty of that specific expansion.
For Cornwall Airport Newquay, the impact is not limited to just this one route. Airline operations support ground handling, engineering, security, retail and administrative roles. Any reduction in scheduled activity affects the wider employment ecosystem linked to the airport.
This adds a further dimension to the debate. The issue is not solely about subsidies or connectivity, but about the knock-on effects on jobs, skills, and economic activity in and around the airport.
Why the Newquay to London PSO has ended
In a report to Cabinet, Phil Mason, the Strategic Director Sustainable Growth & Place for Cornwall Council, states that it ran two procurement exercises over a nine-month period to secure a new four-year PSO. Both failed to produce a tender that could be lawfully or affordably awarded. The sole bid was from Skybus.
The report states that since the previous contract was awarded, the funding structure has changed. The Department for Transport now requires a 50:50 split between central government and the local authority. Under the 2021 to 2025 agreement, the central government covered a larger share.
At the same time, aviation costs have increased, and airlines have become more cautious about long-term fixed price commitments.
The report indicates that maintaining a PSO would require between £14 million and £16 million in public subsidy over four years, or significant reductions in airport charges. The Cabinet report concluded that neither option would be financially viable for the Council or for the airport.
Public Service Obligation routes exist where the market alone cannot sustain year-round service.
Newquay to London was not a lifeline route in the same way as Scottish island PSOs, but its purpose was clear: to guarantee winter resilience and flight timings that enabled same-day business and essential travel when commercial services alone could not sustain them. It was also presented as supporting economic growth and investment in Cornwall.
Before the pandemic, annual passenger numbers on the Newquay-London corridor exceeded 150,000. The Council links the service to wider economic impact, citing an estimated £100 million per year in Gross Value Added associated with Cornwall Airport Newquay and its activities.
However, the report does not provide a standalone figure for the economic return generated solely by the PSO. Instead, it positions the route within the airport’s broader economic ecosystem.
Where the PSO funding went
It is important to note that PSO funding did not simply flow to the airline.
A significant proportion of the public subsidy would have flowed back to Cornwall Airport Newquay through landing fees, passenger charges, handling fees, and related commercial income, income that will cease once the PSO service ends. In effect, the PSO supported both the airline’s operation and the airport’s revenue base.
That flow of income helps explain why the Cabinet report views the issue not only as a connectivity decision but also as one that directly affects the airport’s financial sustainability.
Jonathan Hinkles highlighted this in Skybus’s statement:
“We have grave concerns about the impact of this decision on Cornwall’s essential connectivity, on continued employment in Cornwall’s aviation sector and most specifically for the viability of Cornwall Airport Newquay. The PSO – 50% funded by the UK Department for Transport, funding which will now be lost – made a huge contribution towards the airport’s finances…”
He added that other commercial routes operate with significant discounts to standard airport charges and warned that, without the PSO income, the airport’s financial position could become “wholly unsustainable”.
Can commercial services replace the PSO?
The Council argues that the market has evolved. A commercial Newquay to London Stansted service now operates year-round and carries around 40,000 passengers annually. This is cited as evidence that Cornwall will retain air connectivity to London without a PSO, although winter certainty may be reduced.
The broader aviation market, however, is more constrained than it once was. The collapse of Flybe and the subsequent administration of Eastern Airways (UK) Limited have reduced capacity in the regional UK aviation sector, and the subsequent contraction in parts of the regional sector has reduced UK domestic capacity.
There is also concern that remaining regional operators could overstretch themselves, expanding beyond core markets and then scaling back if performance weakens.
If additional fully viable year-round routes between Newquay and London existed without subsidy, it is reasonable to assume an airline would already be operating them.
Any commercial replacement is therefore unlikely to emerge without conditions. It will require carefully structured incentives, appropriately sized aircraft and tight control of winter capacity, when demand is weakest. Given that sustained daily or twice-daily commercial viability has not yet been demonstrated in the corridor, the question becomes whether support will be needed, and if so, in what form and at what level.
The Council has made clear that Cornwall Airport Ltd will lead this next phase through direct commercial negotiation rather than through a formal public service contract. That approach shifts the risk from a defined subsidy arrangement to a more flexible, but potentially less certain and less transparent commercial framework.
Financial risk to Cornwall Airport Newquay
The tone of the Cabinet report becomes more cautious in its Financial Implications section. It describes what it calls a “binary choice”: either pursue a significantly higher subsidy PSO or accept an increase in the airport’s operating deficit while commercial activity develops.
The report states:
“There is of course the risk that commercial routes and other commercialisation cannot replace the airport losses and the airport becomes unsustainable.”
The report does not define a specific tipping point at which Cornwall Airport Newquay becomes unsustainable, but the risk is clear: if commercial growth does not replace PSO-linked income quickly enough, the airport’s operating deficits will continue to fall back on the Council and ultimately on taxpayers.
Sustainability ultimately depends on whether the airport can cover its costs through airline charges, passenger income and commercial activity without any additional ongoing structural support. That in turn affects more than just flights to London. The airport supports routes to the Isles of Scilly, an expanding portfolio of leisure destinations, local employment and wider business connectivity.
This is not a prediction of closure, but it is an acknowledgement that without stable revenue and resilient airline partnerships, the financial model for Cornwall Airport Newquay becomes increasingly exposed.
Connectivity, growth and confidence
The Council argues that post-pandemic travel patterns, hybrid working and improved digital, road and rail connectivity reduce the case for underwriting daily winter rotations.
However, the report also recognises that business travel drives economic impact and that route structure matters. If London connectivity weakens in winter, the risk is not only fewer leisure passengers but also a challenge for business confidence, inward investment optics, and ease of doing business.
Rail remains an alternative, with direct Newquay to London Paddington services taking around five hours on the fastest journeys. For many travellers, the overall door-to-door difference between rail and air is narrower than headline flight times suggest.
What rail does not guarantee is the fixed, early-out, late-return pattern every day throughout winter that the PSO was designed to secure. Rail services can also be affected by weather and infrastructure disruption.
Conclusion: a commercial test for Cornwall Airport
Cornwall Council’s position is clear. It believes a compliant and affordable PSO is no longer achievable under the current funding split and cost base. Faced with potential subsidy requirements of up to £16 million over four years, it chose not to proceed.
In doing so, the Council also forgoes 50% matched funding from the central government. The future availability of that funding and the associated Gatwick slots is uncertain, and the prospect of restoring them later would depend on future policy and market conditions.
The Cabinet report contains a stark warning: if commercial routes and wider commercialisation do not replace PSO-related income, Cornwall Airport Newquay could face long-term sustainability challenges.
The Financial, Political and Strategic Risks
This raises a legitimate question. Could the Council’s decision ultimately cost more than the PSO would have?
If attracting commercial operators requires significant incentives or discounted airport charges, the public exposure may not disappear. It may shift from a structured PSO contract to a series of commercial concessions, potentially with less certainty over service levels. In that scenario, the cost to the Council and ultimately to council taxpayers may not be reduced at all. It might simply take a different form and could, in some circumstances, even increase.
The political risk sits primarily with the Council leadership and Cabinet members who supported the decision. If commercial services fail to materialise, prove thinner, more volatile or more expensive to sustain than anticipated, the judgement to end the PSO will come under scrutiny. Opposition members and affected communities may argue that matched government funding and guaranteed winter resilience were surrendered too readily.
Two risks underline this point.
First, additional commercial operators may not materialise at a meaningful scale, leaving the airport with less resilience than under the PSO model.
Second, reliance may increase significantly on the existing low-cost carrier. If that airline becomes the dominant London operator from Newquay, the balance of leverage changes. It can reduce frequency, redeploy aircraft to stronger performing routes, or seek improved commercial terms if margins tighten. Low-cost carriers are disciplined and profit-focused. If the numbers change, the schedule can change quickly.
Dependence on a single commercial operator increases exposure to decisions taken outside Cornwall.
The next phase is therefore a commercial test. What will London connectivity look like from summer 2026? Will it be year-round? What level of incentives will be required? And can those incentives strengthen the airport’s finances rather than replicate a subsidy under a different label?
The Leader of Cornwall Council, Councillor Leigh Frost told the BBC that the Council would go to the market and “work commercially with airlines to try and seek a solution”, which he said he hoped would result in routes between Newquay and London City Airport. This suggests the Council is actively exploring alternative commercial options, although no operator, timetable or formal agreement has yet been announced.
Even with that said, Skybus still remains an obvious potential partner. As a Cornwall-based airline with recent operational experience on the Newquay Gatwick route, it has performed strongly as an interim operator, is trusted locally and has scope to expand its presence in the region. Its management team has extensive experience in the UK regional airline sector and detailed knowledge of the local market.
Whether a sustainable commercial model can be built will determine not only the future of one route but also the long-term position of Cornwall’s principal airport. In time, it will test whether the Council’s decision was strategically sound or ultimately short-sighted.
Over to you – what’s your view on this story? Please share your perspective in the comments below, or join the conversation on our Facebook Group.
New to South West England or returning after a while? Start with our ‘Travel Basics’ – quick guides packed with tips to help you plan your trip.
Information in this article is correct to the best of our knowledge as of 14 February 2026. It is based on publicly available statements from Skybus, Cornwall Council, Cornwall Airport Newquay, the Department for Transport, BBC reporting and other referenced sources.
This article is provided for general information and analysis only and should not be treated as official travel advice. Flight schedules, operational arrangements, airport charges, aircraft types, staffing plans and fare details may change at short notice. Readers should confirm the latest information directly with Skybus, Cornwall Airport Newquay or the relevant airline before making travel plans.
This page may be updated if further confirmed information becomes available.
Illustration of an ATR in Skybus Colours (Credit: Skybus)
Skybus has successfully launched its new Newquay–London Gatwick service, restoring Cornwall’s essential London connection after one of the most turbulent fortnights UK regional aviation has faced in years. The carrier, part of the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group, has delivered on its pledge to begin the route on Sunday, 23 November, despite the collapse of Eastern Airways and the subsequent failure of Blue Islands, which had initially been due to operate the flights on its behalf.
The first service marks the start of a year-round lifeline for residents, businesses and visitors. Daily flights are now in operation, rising to twice-daily weekday services from February 2026 under the interim Public Service Obligation awarded by Cornwall Council.
A complex operational arrangement
The launch comes after an intense period of operational restructuring. With Blue Islands unable to deliver the service, Skybus worked through last week to secure aircraft, crew and regulatory approvals at speed. The short-term solution is a three-way arrangement involving Ascend Airways, Aurigny Air Services and Skybus.
Flights from 23 November are operated by Ascend Airways using a Boeing 737, but under Aurigny’s Air Transport Licence, the Channel Islands carrier. Skybus remains the route holder and sells the tickets.
A costly model, but temporary
Using a 189-seat Boeing 737 on a lightly loaded winter PSO route is an expensive way to begin operations. Short-notice ACMI leasing is one of the costliest options available in the industry, and in this case, three organisations must cover their own risk and margin.
Early loads on the first flights appear to have been modest, underlining that the economics only make sense as a temporary measure while the route is relaunched and awareness grows.
Skybus, however, has confirmed that the 737 is a short-term solution. An interim Q400 turboprop is due to take over in early December, offering a far more suitable cost base and capacity level for winter operations. In the longer term, the service is expected to transition to an ATR, which would offer improved efficiency and sustainability once the route stabilises.
Assessing early viability
PSOs are most commonly associated with island communities, but they can also support remote or economically isolated regions where reliable year-round transport is hard to sustain commercially.
Cornwall is not an island, yet long journey times to London and a seasonal tourism economy place it in a similar category when it comes to connectivity.
Cornwall Council, and others, argue that a dependable air link to the capital is essential for local businesses, for access to national services, and for maintaining the region’s competitiveness through the quieter months, which is why the authority sees a continued need for a PSO on this route.
Even with that support in place, Skybus will still need to increase winter load factors on a route that has always been strongest in the summer. The subsidy reduces commercial exposure but does not remove it, and the service may continue to face financial pressure if passenger numbers remain low. Linking the London flights more closely with the wider Skybus Isles of Scilly network should help stimulate demand over time. How the balance between revenue and support evolves will be closely watched as the operation settles.
Quotes from Sunday’s launch
Jonathan Hinkles, Managing Director of Skybus, said: “Today’s flight is a proud moment for Skybus and a major step forward for connectivity in Cornwall. This route is about more than transport – it is about ensuring people, communities and businesses have dependable access to London all year round.”
Writing on LinkedIn earlier in the week, he also reflected on the effort required to reach Sunday’s milestone: “Last Friday’s collapse of fellow regional airline Blue Islands led to a round-the-clock effort to secure alternative aircraft and crew. I’m delighted, even if a little fatigued, to advise that this has been accomplished.”
Amy Smith, Managing Director at Cornwall Airport Newquay, said: “This vital London connection strengthens our region’s resilience and supports our economy and tourism year round. We are delighted to welcome Skybus as our partner on this essential route.”
Fares and booking
Fares begin at £79.99 one way, including a 15 kg checked bag. Extra luggage or the FlyFlexi upgrade, offering ticket flexibility, additional baggage and fast-track security (where available), can be added from £22.50 each way. Flights are now available at www.skybus.co.uk, with summer 2026 schedules due to open shortly.
A complicated start, but the connection is open.
The collapse of two regional airlines in rapid succession, along with strained capacity across the UK market, made the restoration of the Newquay–Gatwick link far from straightforward. Yet Skybus and Cornwall Council have ensured the service launches on time, preserving a connection that many see as vital for Cornwall’s economy, tourism, and year-round access to the capital.
For Skybus, it is also an opportunity to further demonstrate its strengths as a reliable regional operator and to link London more closely with its established Isles of Scilly network. With the Boeing 737 operating for now and the Dash 8-Q400 arriving in early December, the focus will likely now shift to building demand and establishing a sustainable, long-term operation throughout 2026.
Over to you – what’s your view on this story? Please share your perspective in the comments below, or join the conversation on our Facebook Group.
New to South West England or returning after a while? Start with our ‘Travel Basics’ – quick guides packed with tips to help you plan your trip.
Information in this article is correct to the best of our knowledge as of 24 November 2025. It draws on publicly available statements from Skybus, Cornwall Council, Cornwall Airport Newquay, the Department for Transport and other referenced sources.
This article is intended for general information and analysis only and should not be taken as official travel advice. Flight schedules, operational arrangements, aircraft types and fare details may change at short notice. Readers should confirm the latest information directly with Skybus, Cornwall Airport Newquay or London Gatwick Airport before making travel plans.
This page may be updated if further information becomes available.
Skybus has confirmed that its new Newquay–London Gatwick service will launch as planned on Sunday, 23 November 2025, restoring Cornwall’s key London link after a turbulent fortnight for regional aviation.
The announcement made on Friday evening follows the collapse of Eastern Airways and then Blue Islands, which was initially due to operate the flights on Skybus’ behalf. In response, Skybus has worked “around the clock” to secure replacement aircraft, crews and regulatory approvals.
A complex three-way arrangement
Flights from 23 November will now be operated by Ascend Airways, flying a Boeing 737, but under the Air Transport Licence of Aurigny Air Services, the Channel Islands carrier. Skybus remains the route holder and ticket seller.
Skybus has a strong reputation for customer service, so the airline will no doubt want to ensure passengers experience a smooth, well-supported process.
However, Aurigny is registered in Guernsey; its Conditions of Carriage are governed by Guernsey law rather than English law. This means that compensation claims, contractual rights and passenger protections must ultimately be handled by Aurigny, even though another operator will initially provide the aircraft and crew.
Cost concerns
This arrangement is likely to be expensive, even by industry standards. A short-notice ACMI lease of a Boeing 737 is one of the most costly ways to operate a route, and each organisation involved – Skybus, Aurigny and Ascend – needs to cover its own margin and risk. That adds significant overhead to every flight.
If ticket price increases are to be avoided, the extra cost must therefore be absorbed either by Skybus or through the Public Service Obligation funding, at least in the short term. The early weeks of operation are therefore likely to be more expensive to provide than anticipated at the time the original tender was agreed.
Skybus emphasises that the 737 is only a temporary measure. The airline will move to an interim Q400 turboprop in early December, a far more suitable aircraft for the PSO requirement. In the longer term, it is understood that the service will transition to an ATR, which would offer a more efficient and sustainable solution once operations fully stabilise.
“One heck of a week… but a bright future ahead”
Writing on LinkedIn, Skybus Managing Director Jonathan Hinkles described the past week as particularly intense:
“Last Friday’s collapse of fellow regional airline Blue Islands, which was to deliver the route on our behalf, led to a round-the-clock effort to secure alternative aircraft and crew. I’m delighted, even if a little fatigued, to advise that this has been accomplished. Flight times, baggage allowances and check-in arrangements are confirmed and will not change.”
He added that the rapid progress “presages a bright future for our service to the community across Cornwall and beyond”.
Cornwall Council welcomes the restoration of the link
Earlier in the month, Cornwall Council had said it was delighted that a replacement operator had been secured so quickly after announcing that Skybus would take over responsibility for the PSO operation.
Council representatives described the route as vital for Cornwall’s connectivity, essential for business, tourism and medical travel, and highlighted the importance of maintaining regular London flights through the winter months.
Tickets now available
Flights are on sale through the Skybus website, with Summer 2026 services due to be released shortly. Skybus has also opened bookings for Winter 2026/27 Isles of Scilly routes.
A complicated start, but a crucial connection restored
With the demise of Eastern Airways, the subsequent collapse of Blue Islands and regional airline capacity stretched across the UK, the stakes for Cornwall’s London link could not be higher. All eyes will now be on Skybus and Cornwall Council to see how effectively this arrangement beds in.
With a 737 ready to fly on Sunday and a Q400 due in early December, Skybus has, however, delivered what really matters: keeping Cornwall’s London connection open and giving the South West a much-needed boost at a challenging moment for regional aviation.
Over to you – what’s your view on this story? Please share your perspective in the comments below, or join the conversation on our Facebook Group.
New to South West England or returning after a while? Start with our ‘Travel Basics’ – quick guides packed with tips to help you plan your trip.
Information in this article is correct to the best of our knowledge as of 22 November 2025. It draws on publicly available statements from Skybus, Cornwall Council and others.
This article is intended for general information and analysis only and should not be taken as official travel advice. Flight schedules, operational arrangements and aircraft types may change at short notice. Readers should confirm the latest details directly with Skybus or Cornwall Airport Newquay before making travel plans.
This page may be updated if further information becomes available.
An ATR72 in Skybus Colours (Credit: Skybus/Cornwall County Council)
Daily flights between Newquay and London are set to resume later this month after a short-term agreement between Cornwall Council and Cornish airline Skybus brought the route back to life.
The vital connection, operated under a Public Service Obligation (PSO), had been thrown into doubt following the sudden collapse of the previous operator, Eastern Airways and suspension of flights last week. The PSO arrangement allows Cornwall Council and the Department for Transport to provide financial support if needed, ensuring Cornwall remains connected to the capital year-round.
Under the new agreement, Skybus will act as the interim provider, operating daily flights between Cornwall Airport Newquay and London Gatwick from Sunday, 23 November, with plans to increase to twice-daily weekday services from mid-February 2026.
‘A Vital Connection to the Capital’
Cllr Leigh Frost, leader of Cornwall Council, said:
“I’m delighted we’ve managed to find a replacement operator so quickly, and even more so to see a Cornish company stepping in. It has been a difficult time, with disruption for many people who use the service and had already booked flights, so I am pleased this announcement will help end the uncertainty around this vital connection to the Capital.”
Cllr Tim Dwelly, the council’s portfolio holder for economic regeneration and investment, added:
“Our priority was to get the service back up and running as quickly as possible to minimise disruption for passengers. Restoring this route helps maintain the confidence of business and tourism sectors, and it’s welcome that a Cornish company has the capability to step in and deliver during this interim period.”
Background
The Cornwall–London air link, funded under a Public Service Obligation shared by Cornwall Council and the Department for Transport, has changed hands several times in recent years. British Airways briefly operated the route in 2020 after Flybe’s collapse, before Eastern Airways took over in 2021 with a four-year PSO contract. When Eastern Airways entered administration on 27 October 2025, all services were suspended, leaving Cornwall without its key connection to London while work began to find a replacement. We reported on the collapse in Eastern Airways Suspends Flights – What It Means for Cornwall.
Cornish Airline Skybus Steps Forward
Jonathan Hinkles, Managing Director of Skybus, said:
“We are thrilled to launch this new service between Cornwall and London Gatwick. It is not just about making travel easier for passengers; it’s about creating opportunities – for businesses, for tourism, and for the local communities we serve.”
The service will begin with a 70-seat ATR 72 leased from Blue Islands, before a Skybus-liveried aircraft takes over in 2026, operated by Cornwall-based crew under an agreement with Aurigny Air Services.
Jonathan Hinkles, Managing Director of Skybus, confirmed onLinkedIn that Cornwall Council has chosen Skybus to restore the county’s essential air link to London following the collapse of Eastern Airways. He said, “It’s a big day… we’ll re-link Coast to Capital daily from Sunday 23 November.”
Tickets are already available at www.skybus.co.uk, with fares from £79.99 one-way, daily flights increasing to twice-daily from February 2026, and the option for through-bookings to the Isles of Scilly. He also confirmed that former Eastern Airways staff will be retained at Newquay, describing the move as a proud moment for “England’s only regional airline” and a major step in rebuilding dependable, Cornwall-based connectivity to London.
Who Are Skybus, Aurigny and Blue Islands?
Skybus is the airline of the Isles of Scilly Steamship Company, operating essential air services between Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly from Land’s End, Newquay and Exeter. The airline has a long record of serving remote island communities with small turboprop aircraft and is now extending that expertise to mainland connections under the Public Service Obligation (PSO) scheme.
Blue Islands is a Jersey-based regional carrier flying ATR turboprops across the Channel Islands, southern England and northern Europe. Known for its community focus, it plays an important role in maintaining reliable regional connectivity within the Channel Islands and to key UK destinations.
Aurigny Air Services, headquartered in Guernsey, is one of the UK’s oldest regional airlines. It provides scheduled services linking Guernsey with destinations such as Southampton, London Gatwick and Alderney. Aurigny works closely with Skybus through a long-term partnership that supports the Alderney route, with Skybus supplying aircraft, training, maintenance and insurance to sustain this vital island link.
Looking Ahead
The reinstated air link marks a significant step forward for Cornwall’s accessibility, particularly during the winter months, when surface journeys to London can exceed 5 hours. With Skybus now operating under the PSO framework, the service not only restores a vital business and tourism connection but also anchors economic benefits firmly within Cornwall.
For the first time, the county’s link to London is being managed by an airline based in Cornwall, supported initially by Blue Islands and moving towards a fully Skybus-operated ATR 72 with locally based pilots and engineers by mid-2026. This approach is expected to safeguard regional aviation skills, create local employment and ensure long-term continuity for the route.
Cornwall Council has confirmed that a new PSO tender will be issued in early 2026 to secure a sustainable, year-round air service for the next four years. While the contract will still go out to open tender, we believe Skybus will be well placed to continue operating the service, given its local base, experience, and its rapid response in restoring the route.
The new arrangement is also expected to strengthen Skybus’s wider network, improving connectivity between London, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly through faster connections and integrated ticketing. Industry observers suggest that a locally managed and well-supported link could become a cornerstone of Cornwall’s transport and tourism strategy, bringing the coast, capital and islands closer than ever before.
Over to you – what’s your view on this story? Please share your perspective in the comments below, or join the conversation on our Facebook Group.
New to South West England or returning after a while? Start with our ‘Travel Basics’ – quick guides packed with tips to help you plan your trip.
Information in this article is correct to the best of our knowledge as of 6 November 2025. It draws on publicly available statements from Cornwall Council, Skybus, and other verified sources. The piece is intended for general information and analysis only and should not be taken as official travel advice. Readers are encouraged to confirm flight schedules, fares and operational details directly with Skybus or Cornwall Airport Newquay before making travel arrangements. This article may be updated as more information becomes available.
Photo by Wayne Jackson: https://www.pexels.com/photo/eastern-airways-embraer-jet-taxiing-on-runway-29195344/
Eastern Airways has suspended operations and cancelled all flights after filing a notice of intention to appoint an administrator, leaving parts of the UK without regional air links, including Cornwall’s publicly funded connection to London. The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has urged passengers not to go to airports and to make alternative arrangements.
This feature sets out what happened, why Cornwall’s route matters, how the Public Service Obligation (PSO) is funded, and which airlines could plausibly take over.
What happened to Eastern Airways
The airline halted services on 27 October 2025 while it explores options under creditor protection. Aircraft have been returned to lessors, and ticket sales have stopped. The CAA confirmed that for now, all Eastern flights are cancelled.
In the immediate aftermath, rail operators, including GWR have offered assistance to stranded passengers. There is no airline-led repatriation because Eastern is not part of an ATOL-protected package.
Cornwall Council and local media say no flights are operating on the “vital” London link from Cornwall Airport Newquay pending a replacement operator. The council says work to secure an alternative is underway.
Travellers’ rights and practical steps
If you booked directly with Eastern Airways, the CAA advises in its statement to contact your card issuer for a chargeback or your travel company if the flight was part of a package. For urgent trips, switch to rail or other airlines and keep all receipts if you intend to pursue a claim.
If you have near-term plans to reach Cornwall from London, the most dependable options in the next few weeks are likely to be GWR rail, the Ryanair service from London Stansted or flights to Exeter/Bristol with onward ground transport.
If you need a same-day long-haul connection, consider routing via Dublin until a London link is restored.
Why the Cornwall–London link matters
The Newquay–London route is designated and funded as a Public Service Obligation. PSOs are used when a route is socially or economically important but not necessarily commercially viable year-round. The UK Government confirmed in November 2021 that it would provide up to £4.3 million to support the Newquay and Dundee links, with up to £1.8 million channelled to Cornwall Council over two years to run the Newquay service.
Cornwall Council’s accompanying statement at the time underlined that the 4-year PSO would “ensure the route is maintained year-round”, reflecting its perceived importance for connectivity, tourism and inward investment.
In short, the PSO exists because the route helps keep Cornwall on the national and international map, particularly for short-break visitors, time-sensitive business trips and onward long-haul connections via London. When a PSO operator collapses, those benefits pause immediately.
Performance questions before the collapse
Load factors (a basic indicator of how full flights are) have varied on the Cornwall-London link across different operators and periods. During the period when British Airways operated the Heathrow connection (2019-20), industry commentary suggested average loads of around 80%. Under the latter PSO model to Gatwick, operated by Eastern Airways, load utilisation appears to have dropped, though published statistics do not provide a direct year-on-year comparison.
Immediate implications for Cornwall
Connectivity gap: With Eastern grounded, Newquay has no daily direct flights to a London airport under the current PSO. That raises the risk of lost short-break visitors and more complex journeys for residents and businesses until a replacement is named.
Economic knock-ons: Tourism bodies have long argued that the PSO route helps shoulder season demand and supports airport jobs and on-airport businesses. While the airport retains other routes, the London link has been the flagship year-round connection in recent years.
Who funds the PSO — and what happens next
PSO funding is shared between the Department for Transport (DfT) and Cornwall Council. The 2021 commitment set the modern template for support; any replacement contract will again depend on central and local government agreement and the tender outcome. A current parliamentary question tabled on 20 October 2025 asks DfT to set out the status of the proposed PSO grant, which companies have bid for, and when a decision is expected, indicating an active procurement timeline and political scrutiny.
Multiple outlets report that Cornwall Council is urgently seeking a new operator and that a name could be announced quickly, but no official award has been published at the time of writing.
If Eastern Airways were to secure new funding or an investor during its protection period, a limited resumption of services could, in theory, follow. The airline has filed a notice of intention to appoint administrators, which allows a short window to seek rescue financing or a buyer. However, even if a deal emerged, restoring operations would require regulatory clearance, aircraft availability and renewed confidence from Cornwall Council and the Department for Transport. Given that the PSO tender process is already underway, a rapid comeback appears unlikely, but not entirely impossible if the company stabilises before a new contract is awarded.
British Airways BA has historical form on this route. After Flybe’s 2020 collapse, BA operated Newquay–Heathrow on a PSO basis for part of 2020, with Cornwall welcoming the relaunch and industry sources noting strong demand at the time. BA also has the scale, slot expertise and fleet flexibility to operate seasonal and year-round variants if the business case is there. The key constraint is Heathrow slots and strategic fit. A Gatwick solution would be simpler operationally but may dilute premium connectivity (and load factors) compared with Heathrow.
Loganair Loganair is now the UK’s largest regional airline and an experienced PSO operator elsewhere in the UK. It already flies seasonal services to Newquay from Scotland and has stepped in on other lifeline routes when competitors have exited. The carrier’s fleet of ATRs and Embraer regional jets is well-suited to PSO-style flying and thin off-peak demand. The question is whether London capacity and crew basing would stack up for Loganair this late in the planning cycle.
A return of BA CityFlyer or another IAG solution A smaller-gauge London solution, for example, from London City on Embraer jets, would preserve a capital link and business-friendly timings. This would hinge on aircraft and crew allocation, and on whether DfT and Cornwall Council favour a Heathrow, Gatwick, or City outcome.
Isles of Scilly Skybus As Cornwall’s own airline, Skybus has long experience serving isolated and low-volume routes between Land’s End, Newquay, Exeter and the Isles of Scilly. Some see echoes of Brymon Airways, the much-loved West Country carrier that once linked the Isles of Scilly, Newquay and Plymouth directly with Gatwick and Heathrow. Its operational base and local knowledge make it a theoretical contender for a wider South-West PSO link. However, Skybus is currently geared toward very short-haul island services using small aircraft, and there is no public indication that it seeks to expand into mainland trunk routes such as Cornwall–London.
Low-cost carriers (easyJet or Ryanair) under a PSO Both airlines have operated flights to Newquay from London in recent years, though only Ryanair continues to serve the airport with limited, non-daily services to Stansted. However, a Public Service Obligation contract is a very different proposition. PSOs require fixed timetables, guaranteed year-round operation and strict reliability standards, none of which align with the flexible, profit-driven model of low-cost carriers. Neither easyJet nor Ryanair typically operates UK PSO routes, as capped fares, minimum-service clauses, and administrative oversight make them commercially unattractive. Even if either airline expressed interest, maintaining off-peak winter schedules with lower demand would likely prove uneconomic, leaving the PSO model better suited to smaller regional operators.
Wildcard: Emerald Airlines / Aer Lingus Regional As with Dublin’s hub option, Emerald Airlines is experienced in thin regional markets. But it is primarily focused on Ireland-centric networks, and there is no public indication of a London PSO bid. The Dublin connection remains the more realistic angle for Emerald’s network as things stand.
What a replacement will be judged on
Reliability and resilience: Cornwall will want fewer cancellations and better winter resilience than the market has sometimes seen. The CAA’s push to publish more load-factor and performance data shows the direction of travel on accountability.
Airport choice: Heathrow offers premium connectivity and inbound tourism potential; Gatwick offers capacity and lower costs; London City offers business-centric timings but fewer long-haul connections. Cornwall’s 2021 PSO communications did not specify a specific London airport in perpetuity, potentially providing some flexibility for the tender.
Value for money and carbon: DfT policy on PSOs now explicitly balances regional connectivity with minimising carbon emissions and market distortion. Any winning bidder will likely face tighter environmental conditions and measurable service outcomes than in previous rounds.
Does Cornwall actually need a London air link?
GWR train service between Cornwall & London (Credit: ThisIsSouthWest)
The Cornwall–London PSO has always attracted mixed opinions.
Supporters argue that the route provides essential connectivity for a region distant from the capital and major international hubs, underpinning tourism, business travel and inward investment. They point to the long rail journey times, the value of same-day returns for government and corporate work, and the importance of easy access for overseas visitors connecting via London airports.
Critics, however, question whether public funds should continue to underwrite a service that primarily benefits a small share of travellers. With rail times improving and broadband infrastructure expanding, some argue that the link has become more of a convenience than a necessity. They also highlight the carbon cost of short domestic flights and note that Cornwall now enjoys better regional links to Manchester, Edinburgh, Dublin and other hubs that can feed international networks without requiring a London transfer.
The debate also reflects geography and perception. Cornwall remains physically and psychologically distant from London, and local leaders see a direct air link as a marker of inclusion in the national economy. Yet the broader shift in UK transport policy favours sustainability and balanced investment across rail, road and digital infrastructure rather than air subsidies alone.
In short, Cornwall’s need for a London air link depends on perspective. For businesses and inbound tourists, it is a fast gateway to the region. For some policymakers and environmental campaigners, it is an expensive and carbon-intensive privilege.
Air vs Rail – Door-to-Door Comparison
On a typical day, the door-to-door journey from central Newquay to central London takes around four hours by air and six hours by rail. Flying via Newquay Airport and Gatwick usually saves about two hours overall, even once check-in and transfers are included. However, the advantage can quickly narrow during busy periods or when weather or baggage delays occur. Rail may be slower, but it offers a predictable, all-weather service that arrives directly in the city centre without the added time or cost of airport transfers.
The broader lesson for regional air links
The Newquay–London story underlines the knife-edge economics of regional aviation. In good times and with the right operator and airport, load factors can look respectable. In leaner conditions, utilisation can drop below 50%, making it harder to justify the subsidy per seat. Policymakers are therefore asking PSO contracts (and airports) to prove clear social and economic value, not just convenience.
For Cornwall, the outcome of the imminent tender will determine how the county maintains its London connection. It seems clear that Cornwall County Council remains committed to keeping a PSO in place, but the exact shape of that service will depend on the bids received. What matters most now is a timely yet carefully judged decision rather than a quick fix.
What next?
A Cornwall County Council spokesperson has said: “We are aware of the situation with Eastern Airways, current provider of the Cornwall-London Public Service Obligation (PSO) air link.
“Eastern’s contract was coming to an end and therefore the process to appoint a new operator is already well under way.
“There will be a short-term loss of services until an interim provider is in place, but we hope to have new arrangements confirmed shortly to ensure this vital air link continues to connect Cornwall with the capital.”
Over to you – what’s your view on this story? Please share your perspective in the comments below, or join the conversation on our Facebook Group.
New to South West England or returning after a while? Start with our ‘Travel Basics’ – quick guides packed with tips to help you plan your trip.
Information in this article is correct to the best of our knowledge as of 29 October 2025. It is based on publicly available statements from the UK Civil Aviation Authority, Cornwall Council and other verified sources. The piece is intended for general information and analysis only and should not be taken as official travel advice. Readers are encouraged to check the latest updates directly with airlines, the CAA or Cornwall Airport Newquay before making travel arrangements.
What’s On in South West England This Weekend & 2026 Events Guide
Looking for what’s on in South West England this weekend? Find festivals, live music, food events and days out across Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset, plus upcoming highlights throughout 2026.
Updated regularly with over 180 South West England events, including what’s on this weekend, what’s on this month, what’s on near you and major 2026 festivals.
What’s On in South West England This Weekend
Friday 12 June to Sunday 14 June 2026
Looking for What’s on in Devon, What’s on in Cornwall, What’s on in Somerset or What’s on in Dorset this weekend? These are some of the biggest events taking place across South West England between 12 and 14 June 2026, including music festivals, food festivals, family days out, theatre, heritage events and outdoor celebrations.
Updated weekly with the latest confirmed events across Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset.
Falmouth Sea Shanty Festival, Cornwall – One of Europe’s largest free maritime music festivals with more than 80 groups performing across the harbour town.
Falmouth Classics, Cornwall – Traditional sailing vessels, classic boats and maritime celebrations fill Falmouth Harbour throughout the weekend.
Darts Farm Summer Festival, Topsham, Devon – Food, live music, family entertainment and local produce at one of Devon’s best known farm destinations.
Motorhome & Camping Weekend, Westpoint Exeter, Devon – A major exhibition featuring motorhomes, campervans, caravans, camping and live entertainment.
Woofstock UK, Powderham Castle, Devon – An award-winning dog festival combining live music, displays, competitions, shopping and camping.
Craft Festival Bovey Tracey, Devon – A popular Dartmoor craft festival showcasing makers, artists and designers from across the UK.
Home Farm Fest, Somerset – A family-friendly charity music festival with multiple stages, circus acts, workshops and children’s entertainment.
Bridgwater Food and Drink Festival, Somerset – Street food, artisan producers, local drinks, live music and market stalls in the town centre.
Lyme Regis Fossil Festival, Dorset – Interactive geology exhibits, guided fossil walks, expert talks and family activities celebrating the Jurassic Coast.
Wimborne Minster Folk Festival, Dorset – A long-running folk festival featuring concerts, ceilidhs, street performances and free entertainment.
Please note: While we make every effort to keep our event listings up to date, events can occasionally be postponed, cancelled or amended due to weather, operational requirements or other unforeseen circumstances. Please check with the organiser before travelling.
Looking for what’s on in South West England this weekend? This regularly updated guide brings together South West events across Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset, including festivals, live music, food events and family days out.
Find what’s on in Devon, Cornwall, Dorset and Somerset this weekend
Covers festivals, markets, shows, music and seasonal events
Includes free events and family-friendly days out
Updated weekly with the latest confirmed South West events
Also features upcoming events throughout 2026 and into 2027
Whether you are planning ahead or looking for something to do this weekend, explore what’s on near you across South West England.
Event details can change, sometimes at short notice, so it is always worth checking with organisers before you travel. We update this guide regularly, but a quick final check before setting off is strongly recommended.
Got a South West event to share? We would love to hear from you. Submit it here, and we’ll add it to our regularly updated guide to what’s on in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset.
Disclosure:Some of the outbound links on this page are affiliate links to sites that we use and would genuinely recommend. Using them doesn’t cost you extra, but it does help support this free guide. We also provide links to other sites that we believe may be helpful to you.
What’s On in South West England in June 2026
Looking for what’s on in Devon, what’s on in Cornwall, what’s on in Somerset or what’s on in Dorset this June? As summer arrives across South West England, June brings a packed programme of festivals, food events, live music, agricultural shows and family days out.
Highlights include the Royal Cornwall Show, Tunes in the Dunes, the Summer Diesel Festival on the West Somerset Railway, Exeter Respect Festival, Golowan Festival in Penzance, Lyme Regis Fossil Festival and the Eden Sessions.
12 June 2026 A lively summer festival night at Strawberry Fields near Lifton on the Devon and Cornwall border, featuring high-energy live music from Land of the Giants alongside support acts, street food and a festival-style atmosphere. Combining brass-driven ska, funk and reggae influences with outdoor bars, dancing and evening entertainment, it creates a relaxed countryside music event with strong West Country festival vibes.
12 to 13 June 2026 Held in the gardens of Torre Abbey in Torquay, this open-air performance brings Shakespeare’s classic tragedy to life in a striking historic setting. It suits those looking for a relaxed summer evening of theatre, with dynamic staging, original music, and the atmosphere of an outdoor performance under the stars.
12 to 13 June 2026 A lively family-friendly tribute music festival held at Langdon Barton Farm near Wembury, featuring UK tribute acts under a big top stage alongside street food, bars and camping. Set close to the South Devon coastline, it combines a strong sense of community with live music, entertainment, and a relaxed summer-festival feel.
12 to 14 June 2026 One of the more practical South West events for touring and outdoor living, this three-day show brings together motorhomes, campervans and caravans from regional dealers, with indoor and outdoor displays to explore. Visitors can browse new and used models, enjoy on-site food and facilities, and also stay on-site with camping and live evening entertainment included, making it a popular event near you for a full weekend experience.
12 to 14 June 2026 A long weekend of food, live music and community set at Darts Farm near Topsham, one of Devon’s best-known farm destinations, with a programme of bands, cookery demonstrations and family-friendly activities. Expect local produce, street food, vineyard drinks, and a relaxed festival atmosphere overlooking the Exe Estuary.
12 to 14 June 2026 Held at the Royal Bath & West Showground near Shepton Mallet, this large antiques fair features up to 600 stands across multiple halls, offering everything from furniture and decorative pieces to vintage clothing, collectables and restoration items.
12 to 14 June 2026 One of the largest free nautical music festivals in Europe, the Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival fills the harbour town with traditional sea songs, maritime music and live performances across pubs, quaysides and waterfront venues. More than 80 groups from the UK and overseas are expected to perform during the three-day weekend event, alongside Falmouth Classics, a historic sailing regatta taking place on the harbour.
12 to 14 June 2026 One of the UK’s largest classic sailing regattas, Falmouth Classics brings together traditional sailing craft, heritage vessels and working boats for three days of racing, parades and maritime events on the Carrick Roads and Falmouth Bay. The weekend event also coincides with the Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival, creating a lively harbour setting with live music, classic boats and waterfront celebrations across the town.
12 to 14 June 2026 A well-established family-friendly charity music festival featuring over 150 bands across multiple stages, alongside circus acts, workshops, food stalls and a large children’s area. Run to support the School in a Bag charity, which combines a lively grassroots atmosphere with a strong community feel and a wide range of activities beyond the music.
12 to 14 June 2026 A small-scale independent music festival featuring multiple bands and live performances across the weekend, with a relaxed atmosphere and a focus on local and touring acts. Typically includes a mix of indoor venues, live music sessions, and a close-knit festival feel rather than a large outdoor site.
12 to 14 June 2026 Held across venues including Wimborne Minster, the Allendale Centre and outdoor town locations, Wimborne Minster Folk Festival is a long-running Dorset event celebrating traditional and contemporary folk music, dance and community culture. Expect a mix of headline concerts, ceilidhs, street performances and free outdoor entertainment, creating a lively town-wide festival atmosphere with something for all ages.
12 to 14 June 2026 Discovery Festival will no longer take place in 2026 and has been officially postponed until 11 to 13 June 2027.
Festival organisers announced that, after exploring all available options with partners and stakeholders, they had made the difficult decision to move the event to 2027. The three-day festival is now scheduled to take place from Friday, 11 June to Sunday, 13 June 2027.
What Happens to Existing Tickets?
All tickets purchased for Discovery Festival 2026 remain valid for the rescheduled 2027 event, with no further action required from ticket holders who wish to attend on the new dates.
As a thank-you for their support, organisers have also confirmed that ticket holders who retain their tickets for 2027 will be eligible to receive an additional complimentary festival ticket. Visitors should contact their original point of purchase for details of how to claim the offer.
Can I Get a Refund?
Yes. Ticket holders who cannot attend the new dates, or who no longer wish to attend, can apply for a full refund through their original point of purchase, including providers such as Ticketmaster UK and FIXR.
Organisers have advised ticket holders to check official communications and contact their ticket provider directly for the latest information regarding transfers, complimentary tickets and refund arrangements.
13 June 2026 A town-centre food festival bringing together street food, artisan producers, local drinks, live music and market stalls across Bridgwater. Held in the centre of Somerset’s historic market town, the event features independent food traders, community entertainment and family-friendly activities, creating a lively atmosphere focused on local food and drink.
13 June 2026 A traditional community day held in Collett Park, featuring live music, stalls, family activities and local entertainment in a relaxed park setting. Expect a classic town fête atmosphere with a mix of performances, food, and activities for all ages.
13 June 2026 A one-day charity music festival held at The BIG Sheep, featuring live bands, tribute acts and a family-friendly atmosphere. The event raises funds for Tabitha’s Smile, supporting young people through music and theatre, and combines live entertainment with a relaxed summer festival setting.
13 June 2026 Held at Wells Cathedral, this community event brings together local people for an afternoon of fundraising, food and live charity pitches. It suits visitors looking for a low-key, social event with a strong community focus, where a small donation includes homemade soup and the chance to vote for local projects competing for funding.
13 June 2026 A popular Dorset food festival held at Askers Meadow, showcasing local producers, street food, cookery demonstrations and family-friendly activities. With around 100 traders and a lively atmosphere, it celebrates the best of West Dorset food and drink, alongside a linked beer festival and evening events.
13 June 2026 Held at Eastville Park, this lively outdoor festival combines live tribute acts, DJs and entertainment with more than 30 ciders and 20 sausage varieties, alongside street food, market stalls and interactive activities. With a strong party atmosphere and a mix of music, food and festival fun, it offers a full day out suited to groups, couples and friends.
13 to 14 June 2026 A free family-friendly food festival overlooking Swanage Bay, celebrating local seafood, Dorset produce and coastal community life across a full weekend at Sandpit Field. The festival features seafood stalls, artisan traders, live chef demonstrations, music, children’s activities and cookery sessions, alongside local food and drink producers from across Purbeck and Dorset. Make a weekend of it? Find accommodation in and around Swanage.
13 to 14 June 2026 One of the UK’s best-known palaeontology and geology festivals, the Lyme Regis Fossil Festival brings scientists, fossil experts and interactive exhibits to the heart of the Jurassic Coast. The free weekend event includes expert talks, guided fossil walks, family activities, exhibitions and live demonstrations celebrating the area’s extraordinary geological heritage and the legacy of Mary Anning.
13 to 14 June 2026 A large free family festival bringing together artisan food and drink, arts and crafts, live music and entertainment across Highcliffe Recreation Ground and the village centre. The weekend features street food, local producers, craft stalls, chef demonstrations in Mary’s Kitchen, live performances, children’s activities and community entertainment, with more than 120 traders expected across the festival site.
13 to 14 June 2026 A family-friendly village festival in East Budleigh featuring creative scarecrow displays throughout the village, alongside stalls, refreshments and community activities. Organised by the Friends of All Saints, the event runs from 11 am to 4 pm each day and offers a relaxed, all ages day out in one of East Devon’s most picturesque villages.
14 June 2026 Held on Exmouth Beach and at Sideshore, this new wellness festival brings together fitness instructors, health professionals and wellbeing experts for a full day of activities by the sea. Visitors can take part in yoga, pilates, meditation, breathwork sessions and fitness classes, alongside inspirational talks, nutrition advice, live music and a health and wellbeing market. With more than 50 sessions taking place across multiple zones, the festival offers a relaxed and uplifting day focused on health, movement and community on Devon’s coastline.
16 June 2026 Mercury Prize-winning indie rock band Wolf Alice will perform at the Eden Sessions in the dramatic open-air setting of the Eden Project. Known for blending alternative rock, dream-pop and atmospheric guitar music, the band has built a reputation as one of the UK’s strongest live acts. Set against the backdrop of the famous biomes near St Austell, the concert forms part of Cornwall’s best-known summer music series, combining major artists with one of the South West’s most distinctive outdoor venues.
18 June 2026 Northern Irish alt-rock band Snow Patrol return to the Eden Sessions for a major summer concert at the Eden Project in Cornwall. Known for anthemic songs including Chasing Cars, Run and Open Your Eyes, the band has become one of the UK’s best-known live acts, combining atmospheric indie rock with large-scale singalong performances.
North Curry Music Festival, North Curry, near Taunton, Somerset 18 to 21 June 2026 A village-based music festival featuring a mix of classical, contemporary and community performances across venues including the parish church, village hall and outdoor spaces. Expect concerts, workshops and informal events, with both ticketed performances and free sessions creating a relaxed, local atmosphere.
18 to 28 June 2026 A new multi-venue music and arts festival taking place across Shepton Mallet, featuring a ten-day programme of live music, performances and community events in indoor and outdoor venues around the town. Organised by Let’s Buy The Amulet in collaboration with local venues and promoters, the festival includes a mix of free and ticketed events, from jazz and ceilidh in the Market Place to punk, folk and indie shows, spoken word and community art activities. Highlights include a performance by Arthur Brown and a closing Prison Yard Party, creating a lively town-wide celebration of music and culture.
19 to 21 June 2026 A multi-day community and cultural festival held across venues and public spaces in Bridgwater, featuring world music, dance, food, arts, workshops and performances celebrating the town’s diverse communities and cultures. Linked with Refugee Week, the festival brings together local organisations, performers and visitors from across Somerset, creating a lively programme of inclusive cultural events and entertainment throughout the town.
19 to 28 June 2026 The Golowan Festival returns to Penzance from 19 to 28 June 2026, bringing ten days of music, parades, street performances and midsummer celebrations to West Cornwall. One of Cornwall’s best-known community festivals, Golowan combines traditional customs with live entertainment, art, food and fireworks, attracting visitors from across the South West and beyond.
The highlight for many visitors is Mazey Day, when the streets of Penzance fill with colourful processions, costumes, giant sculptures and live music. Quay Fair Day and the popular Golowan fireworks over Penzance Harbour are also major parts of the festival, creating a lively atmosphere throughout the town and along the seafront. Local pubs, cafés and venues join in throughout the week, with performances and events taking place day and night.
Set against the backdrop of Mount’s Bay, the Golowan Festival is one of the standout summer events in Cornwall and an excellent time to visit Penzance. Accommodation can book up quickly during festival week, particularly around the busiest weekend and parade days, so planning ahead is recommended.
Port of Brixham Trawler Event, Brixham, Devon
20 June 2026, 9 am to 5 pm One of the more unusual things to do in Devon, The Port of Brixham Trawler Event celebrates the town’s fishing heritage with a spectacular fleet parade around Tor Bay, opportunities to board participating trawlers, live music, food and drink stalls, arts and crafts, fairground rides and family entertainment around the harbour. An awards ceremony takes place at 3 pm before the closing musical performance, which concludes the day’s festivities.
A spiritual pilgrimage held on Holdstone Down on the North Devon coast, bringing together participants for prayers, meditation, chanting, and ceremonies focused on world peace and spiritual wellbeing. Organised by The Aetherius Society, the event includes a service on the summit overlooking the coast near Combe Martin, with optional transport and a social gathering afterwards in nearby Berrynarbor. The pilgrimage forms part of a wider programme of spiritual events and holy mountain pilgrimages connected with the organisation.
20 June 2026 A free family-friendly environmental and maritime festival at Exeter Quayside bringing together conservation groups, heritage organisations and traditional maritime crafts. The event includes historic vessels, talks, films, live music, waterside activities, traditional craft demonstrations and opportunities to learn more about protecting seas, rivers and waterways around Devon and the South West.
Specialist Plant Fair, Coates English Willow, near Taunton, Somerset 20 June 2026 A specialist plant fair set at Coates English Willow in Stoke St Gregory, bringing together around 15 nurseries from across the South West, offering a wide range of plants with expert advice. Visitors can also explore the willow museum, browse handcrafted willow products and enjoy a relaxed day out in a unique Somerset setting.
20 June 2026 Double BRIT Award winner Becky Hill brings her high-energy dance-pop sound to the Eden Sessions at the Eden Project in Cornwall. Known for chart hits including Remember, Crazy What Love Can Do and Lose Control, Becky Hill has become one of the UK’s biggest live music acts, combining powerful vocals with festival-style performances and electronic anthems.
20 June 2026 A midsummer themed event marking the summer solstice with live music, DJs and a laid-back outdoor setting, combining seasonal celebration with a festival-style atmosphere in a natural valley venue.
20 June 2026 A one-day boating festival celebrating Plymouth’s maritime heritage, with a wide range of boats, yachts and watercraft on display alongside live demonstrations and hands-on activities. Free to attend, it brings together marine businesses, technology and family-friendly entertainment, with food, drink and on-the-water displays creating a lively harbour setting.
20 June 2026 A small-scale music and arts festival held in the gardens of Higher Farmhouse at Langton Herring, combining live music, food, drinks and panoramic countryside views in aid of the Dorset branch of Samaritans. The adults-only event features a relaxed picnic-style atmosphere, with local and visiting performers, and all proceeds support Samaritans Dorset.
20 June 2026 A daytime party event at Chicago Rock Cafe in Yeovil, bringing together dance music, singalong anthems and West End-inspired entertainment in a lively club atmosphere. Running through the afternoon and early evening, the event combines DJs, themed performances and party classics.
20 June 2026 Held at Taunton Rugby Football Club, this award-winning family-friendly music festival showcases local grassroots bands while supporting It’s in the Bag Cancer Support, a South West charity raising awareness of testicular cancer. Expect a lively atmosphere, live music throughout the day and optional weekend camping, all centred around a strong community message.
20 June 2026 Held on the River Torridge in the heart of Bideford, this long-running regatta brings together rowing clubs from across the South West for a full day of competitive racing and riverside entertainment. Spectators can watch close finishes from the quayside while enjoying the lively atmosphere as crews from Devon and beyond compete on the water. The event combines sporting action, community spirit and one of North Devon’s most scenic waterfront settings, making it a popular summer day out for visitors and locals alike.
20 June 2026 Held on Watchet Esplanade, this lively community festival brings together over 30 stallholders, live music and local entertainment throughout the day. With performances from local musicians, bands and choirs alongside food, shopping and a relaxed seaside setting, it offers a welcoming atmosphere for all ages.
20 June 2026 A one-day family-friendly music festival featuring live tribute acts, local bands and a relaxed outdoor festival atmosphere. Expect performances from acts covering artists such as Sting, ABBA, Oasis and Taylor Swift, alongside food stalls, craft drinks, a kids’ zone and evening entertainment, making it a lively summer event with a strong community feel.
20 to 21 June 2026 A heritage-themed weekend at Bicton Park Botanical Gardens, celebrating vintage engineering and transport, with displays of traction engines, classic cars, motorcycles and military vehicles. Set within the gardens, the event combines live demonstrations, exhibits and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere for a nostalgic Father’s Day outing.
20 to 21 June 2026 Held at Newnham Park in Plympton, this family-friendly motor show brings together more than 100 vehicles, along with displays, competitions and entertainment. It suits car enthusiasts and families alike, with food and drink, attractions and a relaxed outdoor setting just outside Plymouth.
21 June 2026 For one day each summer, a collection of private gardens across the Exmoor town of Dulverton opens to the public, offering a rare chance to explore hidden spaces that are normally closed to visitors. Ticket holders receive a map that guides them through a variety of unique gardens, ranging from traditional cottage gardens to larger landscaped plots. Refreshments are available at Dulverton Town Hall, and proceeds from the event help support local charitable causes.
RNLI Minehead Lifeboat Day, Minehead, Somerset
21 June 2026 Held at Minehead Lifeboat Station on the harbour, this family-friendly event celebrates the RNLI’s lifesaving work and marks the station’s 125th anniversary year. Visitors can meet volunteer crew members, learn about the lifeboats and rescue equipment, watch demonstrations and enjoy a range of fundraising activities throughout the day. With opportunities to explore the station, speak to the volunteers and discover more about sea safety along the Somerset coast, it offers an interesting and enjoyable day out while supporting a vital local charity.
21 June 2026 Held within the historic grounds of Mount Edgcumbe Country Park overlooking Plymouth Sound, this family-friendly summer carnival celebrates both the Summer Solstice and Father’s Day with a packed programme of entertainment and activities. Visitors can enjoy the colourful Solstice Parade, live music, choirs, classic cars, circus and bubble workshops, games, a charity dog show, artisan market stalls and a wide selection of street food traders. Set against one of Cornwall’s most scenic coastal backdrops, the event offers a lively day out for all ages while supporting the children’s charity Jeremiah’s Journey.
21 June 2026 A large family-friendly car show held at Westpoint Arena near Exeter, bringing together show cars, modified vehicles and automotive displays alongside a strong festival atmosphere. Expect a mix of exhibitor stands, entertainment, food and a dedicated kids’ area with activities such as go-karts and inflatables, making it suitable for both enthusiasts and families.
23 to 28 June 2026 An open-air concert series held at Canons Marsh Amphitheatre on Bristol’s harbourside, featuring major UK and international artists across multiple evenings. Each night is individually ticketed, creating a varied programme of headline performances in a central waterfront setting.
24 June 2026 An off-road summer running event through the grounds of historic Forde Abbey, featuring a challenging 10K route across woodland tracks, meadows and river crossings alongside a junior race for younger runners. Organised by Chard Road Runners, the evening event combines scenic countryside views, family-friendly racing and a distinctive Somerset setting on the borders of Devon and Dorset.
Paddle UK SUPER Festival & ICF SUP World Cup, Devon 24 to 28 June 2026 Held across the English Riviera, including Torquay, Paignton and Brixham, this five-day paddleboarding festival combines international competition with community events, featuring sprint, technical and distance races alongside have-a-go sessions, demos and a world-record SUP attempt.
25 June 2026 A lively evening of ragtime, blues, jazz and jug band music in the atmospheric courtyard at Otterton Mill near Budleigh Salterton, one of Devon’s best-known live music venues. Expect upbeat, roots-inspired performances in an intimate setting, with tickets recommended in advance as shows often sell out.
25 to 28 June 2026 A four-day music and arts festival set in Mount Edgcumbe Country Park, bringing together international headliners, emerging artists and local talent across multiple stages. Alongside live music, it features workshops, theatre, wellness activities and camping, creating an immersive, family-friendly festival with a strong creative and community focus.
26 June 2026, 5pm to 9pm A series of summer food and community events held on Cullompton High Street, featuring street food, craft stalls, live performances and local traders. Organised by Cullompton Town Council, the events create a relaxed early evening atmosphere with entertainment for all ages, followed by live bands at The Weary Traveller later in the evening.
26 June 2026 Alt-rock pioneers Pixies headline the Eden Sessions at the Eden Project in Cornwall as part of their Pixies 40 world tour, celebrating four decades of influential music that helped shape alternative rock. Known for songs such as “Where Is My Mind?“, “Debaser” and “Here Comes Your Man”, the band’s distinctive sound influenced artists ranging from Nirvana to Radiohead.
26 June to 4 July 2026 Held across venues in Budleigh Salterton, including St Peter’s Church, this long-running classical music festival brings together internationally recognised performers and emerging talent across a varied programme of concerts. It suits visitors looking for a more refined cultural experience, with a mix of evening performances and daytime recitals in an intimate coastal setting.
DorsetFest, Bulbarrow near Blandford Forum, Dorset 26 to 27 June 2026 Set at Warren Farm in the Dorset countryside, DorsetFest is a small, family-friendly music festival combining live bands, entertainment and food stalls in a relaxed rural setting. Organised and run entirely by volunteers, the event has a strong community focus, with proceeds supporting local charities and causes, as well as camping options and activities for all ages.
25 to 28 June 2026 The biggest events at Powderham Castle in 2026 are a series of large outdoor concerts in late June, featuring major headline acts. Highlights include Teddy Swims, Alanis Morissette and Lewis Capaldi performing across a four-day run.
26 to 28 June 2026 A large heritage transport and family weekend at Swanage Railway, combining steam engines, vintage vehicles, fairground attractions and live entertainment in the Purbeck countryside near Corfe Castle. The event features steam and diesel train services, traction engines, classic vehicles, live music, family activities, brake-van rides, and camping across the weekend, alongside heritage railway travel on the Swanage Railway line.
26 to 28 June 2026 One of the world’s biggest historic armour events, bringing together running tanks, military vehicles and live arena displays across three days at The Tank Museum in Bovington. The festival features historic and modern tanks in action, guest vehicles from the British Army and international collections, living history encampments, expert talks and one of the world’s largest collections of armoured vehicles.
27 June 2026 A free art and music market at Dorchester Arts, bringing together local artists, creative stalls, activities and live music. The event includes an open-mic element called The Jam, giving the market a relaxed, community feel with art, browsing, and live performances in central Dorchester.
27 June 2026 Held at the historic Norman Lockyer Observatory on Salcombe Hill, the South West Astronomy Fair brings together astronomers, space enthusiasts and curious visitors for a day of talks, exhibits and hands-on activities. Visitors can explore historic telescope domes, enjoy planetarium shows, take part in solar observing sessions, browse astronomy trade stands and hear guest speakers discuss the latest developments in space science.
27 June 2026 Taking place across Lyme Regis seafront and town centre locations, the B Sharp Busking Festival fills the resort with live music, street performances and creative activities for all ages. Visitors can enjoy performances from talented young musicians, experienced buskers and community groups, alongside workshops, pop-up shows and family-friendly entertainment. With music taking place on Marine Parade, Gun Cliff Walk, the Town Mill and other venues around the town.
27 June 2026 A free community music and entertainment event in the centre of Sherborne, featuring live bands, local musicians, food stalls and family activities in the Pageant Gardens. Celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2026, the one-day event combines live entertainment, street food and a relaxed summer setting as part of what’s on in Dorset during the peak festival season.
27 June 2026 A large free family event celebrating the UK Armed Forces, with parades, military displays, live demonstrations and an arena programme throughout the day. Expect vehicles, equipment, live music and an evening concert, alongside a strong community atmosphere on Plymouth Hoe.
27 June 2026 The highlight of Golowan is its lively festival atmosphere and spectacular programme of parades that fill the streets of Penzance with colour, music and performance. Throughout the festival, giant processions featuring decorated sculptures, community groups, dancers, musicians and traditional characters make their way through the town, culminating in the famous Mazey Day celebrations. Alongside the parades, visitors can enjoy live music, street entertainment, markets, arts events, food stalls and family activities, making Golowan one of Cornwall’s largest and most distinctive summer festivals.
27 June 2026 Held at the Double Locks pub on the banks of the Exeter Ship Canal near Exeter, this relaxed, dog-friendly summer event brings together local stalls, live music and plenty of food and drink. Expect fun competitions, including Dog of the Year, alongside a sociable, family-friendly atmosphere by the water.
27 to 28 June 2026 A traditional vintage rally and family fun day held at the Holsworthy showground, featuring classic cars, motorbikes and tractors alongside full-size and miniature engines. The weekend includes craft and trade stalls, a licensed bar, a children’s play area, and a dog show, with additional attractions such as wrestling displays and live music throughout, creating a relaxed rural event with broad appeal for all ages.
27 to 28 June 2026 A new North Devon sea shanty festival bringing together around 30 groups performing across pubs, venues and harbour-side locations throughout Ilfracombe. Free to attend and full of atmosphere, it celebrates maritime music, community spirit and traditional songs of the sea.
27 to 28 June 2026 Held at Yeovil Rugby Club, Yeovil Tattoo Fest is a two-day tattoo convention bringing together artists from across the UK and beyond. Expect live tattooing, walk-up sessions, competitions and a range of traders, alongside music and a lively alternative culture atmosphere. It suits tattoo enthusiasts, those considering new work, and visitors interested in creative and subculture events.
27 to 28 June 2026 A free family-friendly folk festival bringing live music, Morris dancing and traditional entertainment to Poole Quay across a full weekend of performances and community events. The festival features folk bands, dance displays, children’s rides, face painting and street entertainment along the historic waterfront, creating a lively atmosphere in one of Dorset’s best-known harbourside settings.
27 June to 5 July 2026 A well-established arts festival set across venues in Beaminster, bringing together music, theatre, literature and visual arts with performances from both international artists and emerging talent. With a strong community focus and a varied programme of concerts, talks and exhibitions, it offers a relaxed yet high-quality cultural experience in West Dorset.
28 June to 11 July 2027 Watch live coverage of the Wimbledon Championships on a giant outdoor screen in Plymouth city centre, with deckchairs provided for spectators on the Piazza. The free event also features food and drink stalls and opportunities to try padel throughout the tournament.
Major South West England Events at a Glance
Eden Sessions 2026
Held at the iconic Eden Project, the Eden Sessions are a series of large-scale outdoor concerts set within a natural amphitheatre beside the biomes, bringing major UK and international artists to Cornwall each summer.
Wolf Alice, Cornwall – 16 June 2026
Snow Patrol, Cornwall – 18 June 2026
Becky Hill, Cornwall – 20 June 2026
Pixies, Cornwall – 26 June 2026
Bowling for Soup and Frank Turner & The Sleeping Souls, Cornwall – 5 July 2026
Bastille, Cornwall – 9 July 2026
Ben Howard, Cornwall – 10 July 2026
The Maccabees, Cornwall – 11 July 2026
Mika, Cornwall – 12 July 2026
Each concert is ticketed separately, with a genre-spanning programme ranging from indie and rock to pop and electronic, making the Eden Sessions one of the South West’s standout live music series of the summer.
Music Festivals in South West England 2026
These are some of the largest South West music festivals in 2026, forming the headline events across Devon, Cornwall, Somerset, Dorset and Bristol. Many other smaller festivals, local events and independent gatherings are included in our listings below, covering a wider mix of genres, locations and styles across South West England.
Love Saves The Day Festival, Bristol – 23 to 24 May 2026
The Great Estate Festival, Scorrier House, Cornwall – 29 to 31 May 2026
Tunes in the Dunes Festival, Perranporth, Cornwall – 5 to 7 June 2026
Bristol Sounds 2026, Bristol – 23 to 28 June 2026
Eden Sessions, Eden Project, Cornwall – June to July 2026 (selected dates)
Rock Oyster Festival, Rock, Cornwall – 23 to 26 July 2026
Camp Bestival, Lulworth Castle, Dorset – 30 July to 2 August 2026
Valley Fest, Chew Valley, Somerset – 31 July to 2 August 2026
Boardmasters, Newquay, Cornwall – 5 to 9 August 2026
Jurassic Fields Festival, Bridport, Dorset – 10 to 12 July 2026
ArcTanGent Festival 2026, Bristol – 13 to 15 August 2026
Beautiful Days Festival, Escot Park, Devon – 21 to 23 August 2026
Purbeck Valley Folk Festival, Purbeck, Dorset – 20 to 23 August 2026
We Out Here Festival, Wimborne, Dorset – 13 to 16 August 2026
FORWARDS Festival 2026, Bristol – 29 to 30 August 2026
Food Festivals and Events in South West England 2026
eat: Taunton, Somerset – 9 May 2026
eat: Nailsea, Somerset – 10 May 2026
St Ives Food and Drink Festival, Cornwall – 15 to 17 May 2026
Sidmouth Sea Fest, Sidmouth, Devon – 15 to 16 May 2026
Looe Beer Festival, Cornwall – 15 to 17 May 2026
Falmouth Food Festival, Cornwall – 22 to 25 May 2026
Flavour Fest, Plymouth, Devon – 29 to 31 May 2026
Kingsbridge Food and Music Festival, Devon – 29 to 31 May 2026
Buckfast Abbey Food Festival, Buckfastleigh, Devon – 29 to 30 May 2026
Seaweed Festival, Clovelly, Devon – 24 May 2026
Bridport Food Festival, Dorset – 13 June 2026
Darts Farm Summer Festival, Topsham, Devon – 12 to 14 June 2026
Newquay Food Festival, Cornwall – 9 to 12 July 2026
Dorset Seafood Festival, Weymouth, Dorset – 4 to 5 July 2026
Eat & Drink Arts Festival, Watchet, Somerset – 20 June 2026
Rock Oyster Festival, Cornwall – 23 to 26 July 2026
Great Dorset Chilli Festival, Dorset – 1 to 2 August 2026
Bude Food Festival (Summer), Cornwall – 9 August 2026
Taste East Devon Festival, Devon – 12 to 20 September 2026
Wells Food Festival, Somerset – 11 October 2026
Falmouth Oyster Festival, Cornwall – 8 to 11 October 2026
Airshows in South West England 2026
English Riviera Airshow, Paignton, Devon – 29 to 31 May 2026
Bournemouth Air Festival, Bournemouth, Dorset – 3 to 6 September 2026
Sidmouth Regatta Air Display, Sidmouth, Devon – 28 to 31 August 2026 (air display typically one day)
Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week Air Display, Dorset – 15 to 23 August 2026 (Red Arrows display expected)
Agricultural Shows in South West England 2026
Devon County Show, Exeter, Devon – 21 to 23 May 2026
Royal Bath & West Show, Somerset – 28 to 30 May 2026
Royal Cornwall Show, Wadebridge, Cornwall – 4 to 6 June 2026
North Devon Show, Umberleigh, Devon – 5 August 2026
Honiton Show, Devon – 6 August 2026
Mid Devon Show, Tiverton, Devon – 25 July 2026
Dunster Show, Somerset – 21 August 2026
Melplash Show, Bridport, Dorset – 27 August 2026
Mid-Somerset Show, Shepton Mallet, Somerset – 16 August 2026
Dorset County Show, Dorchester, Dorset – 5 to 6 September 2026
Regattas and Maritime Events in South West England 2026
Dartmouth Royal Regatta, Dartmouth, Devon – 26 to 29 August 2026
Falmouth Week, Falmouth, Cornwall – 7 to 16 August 2026
Sidmouth Regatta, Sidmouth, Devon – 28 to 31 August 2026
Beer Regatta, Beer, Devon – 8 to 14 August 2026
River Exe Regatta, Topsham & Exe Estuary, Devon – 4 to 11 July 2026
Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week, Dorset – 15 to 23 August 2026
Free South West events and budget-friendly days out
You do not need to spend a lot to enjoy events in South West England. There are many free South West events, including community festivals, outdoor performances, markets and seasonal celebrations.
Whether you are planning a low-cost day out or simply looking to keep costs down, there are plenty of options across the region. Many events are free to attend, although some activities, parking or extras may involve a charge. This is just a small selection, with many more events and budget-friendly days out taking place across Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset throughout the year.
Free South West England Events
• Dart Music Festival, Dartmouth, Devon • Party in the City, Bath, Somerset • Exmouth Festival, Devon • Bristol Harbour Festival, Bristol • English Riviera Airshow, Torbay, Devon • Bridport Community Charter Fair, Dorset • Newquay Sessions, Cornwall • World Pilot Gig Championships, Isles of Scilly • Fowey Regatta, Cornwall • Looe Weekender, Cornwall
Budget-Friendly Days Out in South West England
• Walking or cycling the Exe Estuary Trail • Exploring Dartmoor and Exmoor National Parks • Visiting beaches along the Jurassic Coast and North Cornwall • Harbour walks in places such as Fowey, Padstow and Brixham • Free museums and galleries in Exeter, Plymouth and Bristol • Seasonal markets and community festivals across Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset
Family Events in South West England
Looking for family events and days out in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset? South West England hosts a wide range of family-friendly festivals, outdoor events, seaside celebrations and seasonal attractions throughout the year, from airshows and food festivals to carnival weekends, beach events and countryside shows.
Many events include children’s entertainment, live performances, family activities and outdoor spaces, making them ideal for school holidays, weekends and short breaks across the region. Some events are free to attend, although parking, rides, activities or ticketed areas may involve a charge.
Family-Friendly Events in South West England
• English Riviera Airshow – Free air displays and family entertainment along the Torbay seafront.
• Exmouth Festival – One of Devon’s biggest free festivals, with live music, workshops and family activities.
• Camp Bestival – A major family festival combining live music, theatre, crafts and outdoor activities.
• Foodies Festival – Food stalls, live music, chef demonstrations and family entertainment in Bath.
• Bullring Bites – Summer street food evenings with music, stalls and community entertainment.
• Newquay Sessions – Free seaside summer events with music, entertainment and themed family activities.
• Okehampton Show – A traditional agricultural show with livestock, displays and countryside attractions.
• Exmoor Nature Festival – Wildlife walks, outdoor activities and nature events across Exmoor.
• World Pilot Gig Championships – A lively May bank holiday event on the Isles of Scilly with racing and island celebrations.
• Newquay at Christmas – Festive markets, lights, fireworks and seasonal family entertainment.
Whether you are planning a family holiday, weekend break or local day out, there are family-friendly events taking place across South West England throughout the year. This is just a small selection; many more festivals, shows and seasonal celebrations are listed throughout the guide.
Unusual South West events and traditions
Looking for something a little different in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset? South West England is home to some of the UK’s most unusual events and long-standing traditions, from historic celebrations and quirky customs to distinctive local festivals rooted in place and community.
These events often reflect centuries-old traditions, coastal culture and rural life, offering a different perspective on the region beyond the more familiar festivals and shows.
Unusual Events and Traditions in South West England
• Ottery St Mary Tar Barrels, Devon – A famous Bonfire Night tradition where flaming tar barrels are carried through the streets in a dramatic evening spectacle.
• Bridgwater Carnival, Somerset – One of the largest illuminated carnivals in Europe, featuring elaborate floats, performers and a long-standing Somerset tradition.
• Padstow May Day (Obby Oss), Cornwall – A centuries-old May Day celebration with dancing, music and the iconic ‘Obby Oss’ parading through the streets.
• Cheese Rolling, Cooper’s Hill near Gloucester – A chaotic and well-known event where competitors race down a steep hill chasing a rolling cheese.
• World Pilot Gig Championships, Isles of Scilly – Traditional gig rowing races held over the May Day bank holiday, combining sport with island celebration.
• Fowey Regatta, Cornwall – A historic regatta week with sailing races, parades, fireworks and community events dating back many years.
• Newquay at Christmas, Cornwall – A coastal Christmas celebration combining festive markets, live music, lights switch-on and fireworks by the sea.
• Dartmoor Tors Festival, Devon – A more contemporary but distinctive event exploring Dartmoor’s landscape, folklore and culture through walks, talks and performances.
• Sidmouth Folk Festival, Devon – One of the UK’s best-known folk festivals, with traditional music, dance and street performances rooted in English folk culture.
• English Riviera Airshow, Devon – A large-scale coastal airshow with dramatic displays over the sea, combining aviation with seaside crowds and atmosphere.
These events highlight the variety of traditions and local culture across South West England, from ancient customs and seasonal rituals to modern festivals shaped by the region’s landscapes and communities.
Whether you are visiting for a weekend or planning a longer trip, exploring these unusual events offers a different way to experience the South West beyond the typical visitor attractions.
Find South West events near you.
Use our search bar to explore What’s on in South West England by county, including Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset, or by specific towns and locations. This makes it easier to find South West events near you and plan your time more effectively.
Submit a Listing
Have an event to add? Submit a listing, and it will be included as soon as possible.
Major South West England Events at a Glance
Eden Sessions 2026
Held at the iconic Eden Project, the Eden Sessions are a series of large-scale outdoor concerts set within a natural amphitheatre beside the biomes, bringing major UK and international artists to Cornwall each summer.
Wolf Alice, Cornwall – 16 June 2026
Snow Patrol, Cornwall – 18 June 2026
Becky Hill, Cornwall – 20 June 2026
Pixies, Cornwall – 26 June 2026
Bowling for Soup and Frank Turner & The Sleeping Souls, Cornwall – 5 July 2026
Bastille, Cornwall – 9 July 2026
Ben Howard, Cornwall – 10 July 2026
The Maccabees, Cornwall – 11 July 2026
Mika, Cornwall – 12 July 2026
Each concert is ticketed separately, with a genre-spanning programme ranging from indie and rock to pop and electronic, making the Eden Sessions one of the South West’s standout live music series of the summer.
Music Festivals in South West England 2026
These are some of the largest South West music festivals in 2026, forming the headline events across Devon, Cornwall, Somerset, Dorset and Bristol. Many other smaller festivals, local events and independent gatherings are included in our listings below, covering a wider mix of genres, locations and styles across South West England.
Love Saves The Day Festival, Bristol – 23 to 24 May 2026
The Great Estate Festival, Scorrier House, Cornwall – 29 to 31 May 2026
Tunes in the Dunes Festival, Perranporth, Cornwall – 5 to 7 June 2026
Bristol Sounds 2026, Bristol – 23 to 28 June 2026
Eden Sessions, Eden Project, Cornwall – June to July 2026 (selected dates)
Rock Oyster Festival, Rock, Cornwall – 23 to 26 July 2026
Camp Bestival, Lulworth Castle, Dorset – 30 July to 2 August 2026
Valley Fest, Chew Valley, Somerset – 31 July to 2 August 2026
Boardmasters, Newquay, Cornwall – 5 to 9 August 2026
Jurassic Fields Festival, Bridport, Dorset – 10 to 12 July 2026
ArcTanGent Festival 2026, Bristol – 13 to 15 August 2026
Beautiful Days Festival, Escot Park, Devon – 21 to 23 August 2026
Purbeck Valley Folk Festival, Purbeck, Dorset – 20 to 23 August 2026
We Out Here Festival, Wimborne, Dorset – 13 to 16 August 2026
FORWARDS Festival 2026, Bristol – 29 to 30 August 2026
Food Festivals and Events in South West England 2026
eat: Taunton, Somerset – 9 May 2026
eat: Nailsea, Somerset – 10 May 2026
St Ives Food and Drink Festival, Cornwall – 15 to 17 May 2026
Sidmouth Sea Fest, Sidmouth, Devon – 15 to 16 May 2026
Looe Beer Festival, Cornwall – 15 to 17 May 2026
Falmouth Food Festival, Cornwall – 22 to 25 May 2026
Flavour Fest, Plymouth, Devon – 29 to 31 May 2026
Kingsbridge Food and Music Festival, Devon – 29 to 31 May 2026
Buckfast Abbey Food Festival, Buckfastleigh, Devon – 29 to 30 May 2026
Seaweed Festival, Clovelly, Devon – 24 May 2026
Bridport Food Festival, Dorset – 13 June 2026
Darts Farm Summer Festival, Topsham, Devon – 12 to 14 June 2026
Newquay Food Festival, Cornwall – 9 to 12 July 2026
Dorset Seafood Festival, Weymouth, Dorset – 4 to 5 July 2026
Eat & Drink Arts Festival, Watchet, Somerset – 20 June 2026
Rock Oyster Festival, Cornwall – 23 to 26 July 2026
Great Dorset Chilli Festival, Dorset – 1 to 2 August 2026
Bude Food Festival (Summer), Cornwall – 9 August 2026
Taste East Devon Festival, Devon – 12 to 20 September 2026
Wells Food Festival, Somerset – 11 October 2026
Falmouth Oyster Festival, Cornwall – 8 to 11 October 2026
Airshows in South West England 2026
English Riviera Airshow, Paignton, Devon – 29 to 31 May 2026
Bournemouth Air Festival, Bournemouth, Dorset – 3 to 6 September 2026
Sidmouth Regatta Air Display, Sidmouth, Devon – 28 to 31 August 2026 (air display typically one day)
Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week Air Display, Dorset – 15 to 23 August 2026 (Red Arrows display expected)
Agricultural Shows in South West England 2026
Devon County Show, Exeter, Devon – 21 to 23 May 2026
Royal Bath & West Show, Somerset – 28 to 30 May 2026
Royal Cornwall Show, Wadebridge, Cornwall – 4 to 6 June 2026
North Devon Show, Umberleigh, Devon – 5 August 2026
Honiton Show, Devon – 6 August 2026
Mid Devon Show, Tiverton, Devon – 25 July 2026
Dunster Show, Somerset – 21 August 2026
Melplash Show, Bridport, Dorset – 27 August 2026
Mid-Somerset Show, Shepton Mallet, Somerset – 16 August 2026
Dorset County Show, Dorchester, Dorset – 5 to 6 September 2026
Regattas and Maritime Events in South West England 2026
Dartmouth Royal Regatta, Dartmouth, Devon – 26 to 29 August 2026
Falmouth Week, Falmouth, Cornwall – 7 to 16 August 2026
Sidmouth Regatta, Sidmouth, Devon – 28 to 31 August 2026
Beer Regatta, Beer, Devon – 8 to 14 August 2026
River Exe Regatta, Topsham & Exe Estuary, Devon – 4 to 11 July 2026
Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week, Dorset – 15 to 23 August 2026
Free South West events and budget-friendly days out
There are many free South West events, including community festivals, outdoor performances, markets and seasonal celebrations.
Whether you are planning a low-cost day out or simply looking to keep costs down, there are plenty of options across the region. Many events are free to attend, although some activities, parking or extras may involve a charge. This is just a small selection, with many more events and budget-friendly days out taking place across Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset throughout the year.
Free South West England Events
• Dart Music Festival, Dartmouth, Devon • Party in the City, Bath, Somerset • Exmouth Festival, Devon • Bristol Harbour Festival, Bristol • English Riviera Airshow, Torbay, Devon • Bridport Community Charter Fair, Dorset • Newquay Sessions, Cornwall • World Pilot Gig Championships, Isles of Scilly • Fowey Regatta, Cornwall • Looe Weekender, Cornwall
Budget-Friendly Days Out in South West England
• Walking or cycling the Exe Estuary Trail • Exploring Dartmoor and Exmoor National Parks • Visiting beaches along the Jurassic Coast and North Cornwall • Harbour walks in places such as Fowey, Padstow and Brixham • Free museums and galleries in Exeter, Plymouth and Bristol • Seasonal markets and community festivals across Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset
Family Events in South West England
Looking for family events and days out in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset? South West England hosts a wide range of family-friendly festivals, outdoor events, seaside celebrations and seasonal attractions throughout the year, from airshows and food festivals to carnival weekends, beach events and countryside shows.
Many events include children’s entertainment, live performances, family activities and outdoor spaces, making them ideal for school holidays, weekends and short breaks across the region. Some events are free to attend, although parking, rides, activities or ticketed areas may involve a charge.
Family-Friendly Events in South West England
• English Riviera Airshow – Free air displays and family entertainment along the Torbay seafront.
• Exmouth Festival – One of Devon’s biggest free festivals, with live music, workshops and family activities.
• Camp Bestival – A major family festival combining live music, theatre, crafts and outdoor activities.
• Foodies Festival – Food stalls, live music, chef demonstrations and family entertainment in Bath.
• Bullring Bites – Summer street food evenings with music, stalls and community entertainment.
• Newquay Sessions – Free seaside summer events with music, entertainment and themed family activities.
• Okehampton Show – A traditional agricultural show with livestock, displays and countryside attractions.
• Exmoor Nature Festival – Wildlife walks, outdoor activities and nature events across Exmoor.
• World Pilot Gig Championships – A lively May bank holiday event on the Isles of Scilly with racing and island celebrations.
• Newquay at Christmas – Festive markets, lights, fireworks and seasonal family entertainment.
Whether you are planning a family holiday, weekend break or local day out, there are family-friendly events taking place across South West England throughout the year. This is just a small selection; many more festivals, shows and seasonal celebrations are listed throughout the guide.
Unusual South West events and traditions
Looking for something a little different in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset? South West England is home to some of the UK’s most unusual events and long-standing traditions, from historic celebrations and quirky customs to distinctive local festivals rooted in place and community.
These events often reflect centuries-old traditions, coastal culture and rural life, offering a different perspective on the region beyond the more familiar festivals and shows.
Unusual Events and Traditions in South West England
• Ottery St Mary Tar Barrels, Devon – A famous Bonfire Night tradition where flaming tar barrels are carried through the streets in a dramatic evening spectacle.
• Bridgwater Carnival, Somerset – One of the largest illuminated carnivals in Europe, featuring elaborate floats, performers and a long-standing Somerset tradition.
• Padstow May Day (Obby Oss), Cornwall – A centuries-old May Day celebration with dancing, music and the iconic ‘Obby Oss’ parading through the streets.
• Cheese Rolling, Cooper’s Hill near Gloucester – A chaotic and well-known event where competitors race down a steep hill chasing a rolling cheese.
• World Pilot Gig Championships, Isles of Scilly – Traditional gig rowing races held over the May Day bank holiday, combining sport with island celebration.
• Fowey Regatta, Cornwall – A historic regatta week with sailing races, parades, fireworks and community events dating back many years.
• Newquay at Christmas, Cornwall – A coastal Christmas celebration combining festive markets, live music, lights switch-on and fireworks by the sea.
• Dartmoor Tors Festival, Devon – A more contemporary but distinctive event exploring Dartmoor’s landscape, folklore and culture through walks, talks and performances.
• Sidmouth Folk Festival, Devon – One of the UK’s best-known folk festivals, with traditional music, dance and street performances rooted in English folk culture.
• English Riviera Airshow, Devon – A large-scale coastal airshow with dramatic displays over the sea, combining aviation with seaside crowds and atmosphere.
These events highlight the variety of traditions and local culture across South West England, from ancient customs and seasonal rituals to modern festivals shaped by the region’s landscapes and communities.
Whether you are visiting for a weekend or planning a longer trip, exploring these unusual events offers a different way to experience the South West beyond the typical visitor attractions.
Find South West events near you.
Use our search bar to explore what’s on in South West England by county, including Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset, or by specific towns and locations. This makes it easier to find South West events near you and plan your time more effectively.
Submit a Listing
Have an event to add? Submit a listing, and it will be included as soon as possible.
What’s on in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset in July 2026? Discover peak summer festivals, live music, food events and family-friendly days out across South West England, as the school holidays begin and the region enters its busiest events season.
Foo Fighters GB & Brain of J (Pearl Jam) Tribute Night, Arena Torquay, Devon 3 July 2026 A high-energy tribute night featuring live performances celebrating the music of Foo Fighters and Pearl Jam at Arena Torquay. The show brings together well-known tribute acts for a full evening of rock classics in a large indoor venue setting.
This Ain’t Texas Festival, Dorchester, Dorset 3 July 2026 A one-day country music festival at Dorchester Showground bringing Nashville-style energy to the South West, with live tribute acts, Americana vibes and all-day outdoor entertainment. Expect live country anthems, BBQ street food, bars and a lively, family-friendly atmosphere with a strong focus on music, food and festival fun.
Upton Country Park Festival, Poole, Dorset 3 to 4 July 2026 Set in the grounds of Upton Country Park in Poole, this two-day festival is billed as Dorset’s biggest tribute music event, featuring leading UK tribute acts, live entertainment and family-friendly activities. With a relaxed outdoor setting, festivalgoers can bring their own food and drink alongside a range of street food, bars and activities on site.
Tree of Strings Festival, Abbotsbury, Dorset 3 to 5 July 2026 A new three-day music festival set around Abbotsbury’s Tithe Barn, bringing together emerging talent and established artists across classical, jazz and folk, with concerts, workshops and performances in unique local venues. Designed as an immersive experience, the programme spans around 15 events, combining high-quality live music with a relaxed, accessible atmosphere in a striking Dorset setting.
AutoFest UK Big Weekender, Bath & West Showground, Shepton Mallet, Somerset 3 to 5 July 2026 One of the standout South West events for car enthusiasts and families, bringing together modified cars, supercars and live drift displays alongside music, food and entertainment across a full weekend. Expect indoor and outdoor show areas, drift passenger rides, traders and a festival-style atmosphere, making it one of the most distinctive motorsport festivals near you in Somerset.
Paradhis Festival, Boconnoc Estate, near Lostwithiel, Cornwall 3 to 5 July 2026 A three-day music and wellbeing festival set within the parkland of Boconnoc Estate, combining live music with yoga, meditation, workshops and nature-based activities. It offers a relaxed, immersive experience focused on community, connection and creativity, with camping, food and multiple themed spaces across the site.
Goren Festival, Stockland near Honiton 3 to 5 July 2026 A family-friendly, nature-focused festival set in wildflower meadows with live music, camping and a strong focus on wildlife and outdoor activities.
AutoFest UK Big Weekender, Shepton Mallet, Somerset 3 to 5 July 2026 A large-scale motorsport and car culture festival at the Bath & West Showground, bringing together modified cars, supercars, drift displays, and live entertainment across a full weekend. Expect high-speed drift experiences, show-and-shine competitions, trade stands, food, and a lively atmosphere suited to both enthusiasts and families.
Party at the Palace, Wells 3 to 5 July 2026 A lively summer music event set in the grounds of the Bishop’s Palace, featuring live bands, headline acts and a relaxed festival atmosphere
3 to 5 July 2026 A three-day jazz music weekend held at the Langstone Cliff Hotel in Dawlish Warren, featuring live performances, dinner dances and lunchtime jazz sessions overlooking the South Devon coast. Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2026, the event brings together traditional and mainstream jazz performers, hosted by musician Kevin Grenfell, with live bands, ballroom sessions and a relaxed seaside atmosphere across the weekend.
Frome Festival, Somerset 3 to 12 July 2026 A community-led arts festival with music, theatre and exhibitions across Frome.
East Devon Soul Festival, Seaton, Devon 3 to 4 July 2026 Held across multiple venues in Seaton, East Devon. Soul Festival is a community-driven music event blending jazz, funk, soul, electronic and drum and bass. Live bands, DJs and street performances take place across the town, from the seafront to venues such as the Gateway Theatre and Seaton Tramway, creating a lively, town-wide atmosphere with a strong local and creative focus.
Ruckus Festival, Plymouth 3 to 4 July 2026 A two-day music, food and beer festival held at Brickfields, featuring live bands, tribute acts and local performers alongside street food and bars. Expect a lively summer atmosphere with a mix of well-known acts and emerging talent, plus a strong community feel.
Frome Festival, Frome, Somerset 3 to 12 July 2026 A long-running ten-day arts and community festival held across multiple venues in Frome, bringing together a wide programme of music, theatre, comedy, exhibitions, workshops and family-friendly events. Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2026, the festival features both local and nationally recognised performers, with more than 250 events taking place in venues ranging from theatres and churches to pubs, galleries and outdoor spaces across the town.
4 July 2026 A free live music event held on the Killacourt in Newquay, launching the 2026 Newquay Sessions series with performances from local acts, family entertainment and a lively summer atmosphere overlooking Towan Beach. Running alongside the Big Newquay Market and followed by the return of Newquay Carnival, the event combines live music, community celebrations and coastal summer events in the centre of town
4 July 2026 A traditional Devon village show held in the Teign Valley on the edge of Dartmoor National Park, combining family entertainment, arena displays, local produce, crafts and community activities in a countryside setting. Known for its relaxed atmosphere and strong local character, the show typically features food and drink stalls, rural demonstrations, live entertainment, games and displays, making it a popular summer day out in rural Devon.
4 July 2026 A medieval themed day of live music, storytelling and historical workshops taking place within the atmospheric setting of St Nicholas Priory in Exeter. Bringing together hurdy-gurdy performances, medieval music, puppet shows and interactive demonstrations, the event combines history, traditional arts and family-friendly entertainment inside one of Exeter’s oldest surviving buildings, creating an immersive medieval atmosphere in the heart of the city.
4 July 2026 A family-friendly summer festival held at Lady’s Mile Holiday Park in Dawlish, featuring live music, street food, entertainment and outdoor activities throughout the day. The event includes performances from local bands and musicians, children’s attractions, festival food stalls and a relaxed summer atmosphere close to the South Devon coast, creating a lively community-style summer celebration.
4 July 2026 A large family-friendly music and entertainment festival combining live tribute acts, stunt shows, funfair rides and street food with illuminated hot air balloon displays at Dorchester Showground. The event features live stage performances, children’s entertainment, circus activities, inflatables and the evening SkySafari Night Glow finale, where tethered balloons light up in choreographed displays after dark.
4 July 2026 Held in Vivary Park and the surrounding town centre, Somerset Armed Forces Day is one of the largest Armed Forces Day celebrations in the South West. The free event brings together serving personnel, veterans, cadets, emergency services and military organisations for a full day of displays, demonstrations and family entertainment. Visitors can enjoy military vehicles, living history displays, live music, arena performances, community stalls, food vendors and opportunities to meet members of the Armed Forces community.
Lympsham Fete and Classic Car Show, Lympsham, Somerset 4 July 2026 Held in the Manor Garden, this traditional village fete combines classic cars with family-friendly activities in a relaxed summer setting. It suits visitors looking for a classic English afternoon out, with a mix of stalls, games, dance performances, homemade teas and cakes, a BBQ, ice cream and local beers and ciders.
Dorset Seafood Festival – Weymouth, Dorset 4 to 5 July 2026 The much-loved Dorset Seafood Festival returns to Weymouth Harbour, celebrating local seafood, chefs and producers with live cooking, street food, music and family-friendly entertainment. Free to attend, the event marks a long-awaited return to its historic harbour setting, bringing a lively, coastal festival atmosphere back to the heart of Weymouth.
River Exe Regatta, Topsham and Exe Estuary, Devon 4 to 11 July 2026 An annual sailing and watersports regatta held across the River Exe, with events centred on Topsham and extending to Exmouth, Lympstone and Starcross. The programme includes dinghy and cruiser racing, junior events and a range of on-the-water activities, bringing boats and spectators together across the estuary.
FamFest Live Dorset, Dorchester Showground, Dorset 5 July 2026 A lively, family-focused outdoor festival designed especially for younger children, with a mix of live music, interactive shows and creative play. Expect sing-alongs, dance sessions, workshops, and discovery zones, alongside inflatables, funfair rides, and relaxed spaces for families to enjoy the day together. Runs from midday to the evening, with food, entertainment, and a friendly festival atmosphere.
5 July 2026 A special aviation event held on Lundy Island featuring light aircraft and microlights flying into the island’s grass airstrip throughout the day, alongside day trips for visitors travelling aboard MS Oldenburg. One of North Devon’s more unusual annual events, it attracts aviation enthusiasts and visitors from across the South West, creating a distinctive atmosphere around the island’s airfield, harbour and coastal landscape. Please note that flights and landings remain weather-dependent.
5 July 2026 Pop punk favourites Bowling For Soup join forces with Frank Turner & The Sleeping Souls for a co-headline Eden Sessions concert at the Eden Project in Cornwall, as part of their 2026 Bowl My Bones UK tour. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Eden Project biomes near St Austell, the show combines Bowling For Soup’s energetic, humour-filled pop punk anthems with Frank Turner’s folk-punk live performances, alongside special guests American Hi-Fi. Known for hits including 1985, Girl All The Bad Guys Want, and The Way I Tend To Be, the line-up brings together two well-established live acts for one of the bigger alternative rock events of the South West summer music calendar.
The Celebration of Speed, Lympstone Manor, near Exmouth, Devon 8 July 2026 A one-day luxury motoring and lifestyle event set in the grounds of Lympstone Manor near Exmouth, bringing together supercars, classic vehicles and motorbikes alongside fine food, drinks and live music. Set against an estuary backdrop, it combines high-end car displays with a relaxed festival atmosphere, finishing with a Party in the Paddock and evening entertainment.
9 July 2026 Indie-pop band Bastille returns to the Eden Sessions at the Eden Project in Cornwall for a large outdoor summer concert beneath the famous biomes. Known for hits including Pompeii, Happier and Good Grief, the band previously sold out the venue and return as part of their “From All Sides” live shows following a break from touring.
10 July 2026 Folk singer-songwriter Ben Howard returns to the Eden Sessions for one of just two UK summer performances in 2026, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Eden Project biomes in Cornwall. Known for atmospheric live shows and songs such as Only Love, Old Pine, and Keep Your Head Up, the concert promises an intimate yet large-scale outdoor setting.
Held on Exeter’s historic Cathedral Green, Exeter Craft Festival brings together more than 100 artists, makers and craftspeople from across the South West. The three-day event features ceramics, textiles, jewellery, glasswork, woodcraft, sculpture and handmade art, alongside live entertainment, demonstrations and food stalls. One of Exeter’s longest-running cultural events, it has been part of the city’s summer calendar for over 50 years. It offers a relaxed way to explore independent South West makers in the heart of the city.
Exmouth Festival, Exmouth, Devon 9 to 12 July 2026 Held across multiple venues in Exmouth, including Manor Gardens, The Strand and Sideshore, Exmouth Festival is one of the largest free arts festivals in the South West, featuring live music, theatre, circus, workshops and community events over four days. With a strong family-friendly and community focus, it combines a wide-ranging programme of performances and activities with food, drink and a lively seaside setting.
Newquay Food Festival 9 to 12 July 2026 The Newquay Food Festival is a four-day, free-entry event held on the Killacourt overlooking the sea, bringing together chefs, producers and independent traders to celebrate Cornish food and drink. It combines street food, fire-cooking demonstrations, and local produce with live music and a relaxed coastal atmosphere, creating a festival shaped as much by place as by food.
Totnes Fringe Festival, Totnes, Devon 9 to 12 July 2026 A growing independent arts festival bringing theatre, comedy, dance and spoken word performances to venues across Totnes, from pubs and theatres to outdoor spaces. Expect a mix of ticketed shows and free events, with a strong focus on new work, emerging artists and a creative, community-led atmosphere.
10 July 2026 An evening of chamber music at St Michael & All Angels in Exeter featuring the award-winning Elmore Quartet, one of Britain’s leading emerging string ensembles. The programme includes works by Haydn, Britten, Rebecca Clarke and Ravel, performed in the intimate setting of the historic Mount Dinham church.
Somerstock Music Festival, Somerton, Somerset 10 to 11 July 2026 A lively, family-friendly music festival held at the Recreation Ground in Somerton, featuring a packed line-up of live bands across multiple genres, along with DJs, street food, bars and a relaxed community atmosphere. The event runs across Friday evening and a full Saturday programme, with camping, children’s activities and plenty of space to enjoy one of Somerset’s best-loved local summer festivals.
Tropical Pressure Festival, Porthtowan, Cornwall 10 to 12 July 2026 A small, eco-conscious world music festival set at Mount Pleasant Eco Park, overlooking the north Cornish coast, celebrating the cultures of Latin America, Africa and the Caribbean through live music, DJs, food and workshops. Known for its intimate, family-friendly atmosphere and strong sustainability focus, it offers a vibrant, community-driven weekend combining global sounds, dance, and creative experiences by the sea.
The Healing Weekend, East Huntspill, Highbridge, Somerset 10 to 12 July 2026 A well-established outdoor mind, body and spirit festival held at New Road Farm, bringing together healers, therapists, workshops, live music and wellbeing activities across a full weekend. Now in its 18th year, it combines a relaxed, community atmosphere with a wide programme of talks, treatments, exhibitors and family-friendly activities.
11 July 2026 Indie rock band The Maccabees return to the Eden Sessions for a major outdoor concert at the Eden Project in Cornwall, joined by special guests Everything Everything, Tom A. Smith and Tummyache. Known for albums including Wall of Arms and Given to the Wild, the band helped define the UK indie scene of the 2000s.
Razzfest, Cullompton Rugby Club, Cullompton, Devon 11 July 2026 A one-day family-friendly music festival running from midday to midnight, featuring a packed line-up of live bands, street food, bars and entertainment. Held at Cullompton Rugby Club, it combines a relaxed community atmosphere with a full day of music, food and festival-style activities for all ages.
FunFest, Maidenbrook Country Park, Taunton, Somerset 11 July 2026 A community fun day with games, live music, food and family activities running throughout the day into the evening. Designed as a relaxed, family-friendly event, it offers a mix of entertainment and local involvement in an open park environment.
Outlaw Folk Festival, Bideford, Devon 11 July 2026 A one-day open-air folk music festival at The Big Sheep, bringing together live bands, folk punk energy and sing-along anthems in a relaxed countryside setting. With a single-stage format, local food, and optional camping, it offers a lively summer evening of music and atmosphere in North Devon.
Historic Vehicle Gathering, Powderham Castle, near Exeter, Devon 11 to 12 July 2026 One of the largest classic vehicle shows in the South West, bringing together more than 1,500 historic vehicles, including cars, motorcycles, tractors, commercial and military vehicles. Set within the grounds of Powderham Castle, the two-day event features club displays, parades, trade stands, autojumble stalls, live music and family-friendly attractions, attracting thousands of visitors each year.
12 July 2026 Global pop star Mika returns to the Eden Sessions for a colourful summer concert at the Eden Project in Cornwall. Known for hits including Grace Kelly, Relax, Take It Easy and Love Today, Mika’s live shows combine theatrical pop, soaring vocals and an energetic festival atmosphere. Support on the night comes from MEEK.
15 July 2026 Irish singer-songwriter CMAT makes her Eden Sessions debut at the Eden Project in Cornwall, bringing her distinctive blend of country, indie-pop and sharp lyrical storytelling to the iconic outdoor venue. Known for acclaimed albums including Crazymad, For Me and energetic live performances balancing humour and emotion, CMAT has become one of the most talked-about artists to emerge from Ireland in recent years. Special guest Katy J Pearson joins the line-up for an evening of alternative pop beneath the Eden Project Biomes.
17 to 18 July 2026 A family-friendly live music and camping weekend event in the North Devon countryside, featuring country music on Friday alongside live bands, DJs and entertainment across multiple stages on Saturday. Held at North Glebe Farm near Highampton, the event combines camping, food stalls, children’s activities and a relaxed festival setting while raising funds for the RD&E Exeter Kidney Unit.
Wild Gardens Festival, Port Eliot Estate, Cornwall 16 to 19 July 2026 A four-day music and wellbeing festival set in the grounds of Port Eliot, combining major DJs and live acts with woodland parties, riverside experiences and creative workshops in a unique outdoor setting. Known for its mix of high-energy music, wellness activities and immersive nature-based experiences, it offers a lively yet alternative summer festival atmosphere in South East Cornwall.
Christchurch Music Festival, Christchurch, Dorset 17 to 19 July 2026 A long-running summer music festival held at Christchurch Quay, bringing together live bands, DJs and entertainment alongside street food, bars and a strong community atmosphere. Set in a scenic riverside location, it offers a lively, family-friendly weekend with a mix of well-known acts and local talent.
Big Music Camp Out, Weymouth, Dorset 17 to 19 July 2026 A relaxed, family-friendly music weekend at East Fleet Farm, combining live bands, acoustic sets and DJ sessions with a laid-back camping atmosphere by the coast. Designed as a smaller, grassroots-style festival, it brings together local talent, outdoor space, and a sociable community feel under the open sky.
Comedy at the Castle, Powderham Castle, Devon 17 to 19 July 2026 A large open-air comedy festival set in the grounds of Powderham Castle near Exeter, bringing together major UK stand-up acts across a full weekend of performances. The 2026 lineup includes headline names such as Al Murray and Paul Smith, alongside a strong supporting bill. Expect a lively festival atmosphere with street food, bars and evening shows in a unique historic setting.
The Godney Gathering, Godney near Glastonbury, Somerset 17 to 18 July 2026 Held at Garslade Farm on the Somerset Levels, The Godney Gathering is a two-day music festival combining live bands, DJs and entertainment across multiple stages, alongside food, bars and family-friendly activities. Known as a popular micro-festival with a strong community feel, it blends established acts with local talent, creating a lively yet accessible summer event near Glastonbury.
Rock N Ribs Festival, Shepton Mallet, Somerset 17 to 19 July 2026 Held at the Bath & West Showground, this three-day American-themed festival combines live rock and country music with smokehouse BBQ, monster trucks and high-energy entertainment. It suits visitors looking for a lively summer weekend with a mix of music, food and spectacle, including tribute acts, vehicle shows, line dancing and family-friendly activities.
17 to 24 July 2027 Kingsbridge Fair Week returns with eight days of community celebrations, live entertainment and family events across the South Hams town. Highlights typically include the Fair Queen crowning, carnival procession, fireworks, raft race, lantern parade, live music and a packed programme of competitions and activities for all ages.
This Ain’t Texas Festival, Plymouth, Devon 18 July 2026 A one-day country music festival at Home Park bringing Nashville-style energy to the South West, with live tribute acts, line dancing and all-day outdoor entertainment. Expect country anthems, American BBQ, bars, and a lively, family-friendly atmosphere with a strong focus on music, food, and feel-good festival fun.
Honiton Charter Day, Honiton, Devon 18 July 2026 Held across the High Street, Allhallows Playing Field and Northcote Lane, this traditional town celebration marks the granting of Honiton’s Royal Charter in 1257. It suits visitors looking for a lively summer day out, with live entertainment, music, classic cars, food and drink, and a wide range of local stalls and activities for all ages.
18 July 2026 A country-themed music and family entertainment event at Newton Abbot Rugby Club, featuring live country acts, DJs, line dancing and a range of activities across the day. Organised by The Teignbridge Community Project CIC, the event includes a rodeo bull, street food, market stalls and themed entertainment, combining a lively weekend event with fundraising to support local people with learning disabilities.
18 July 2026 A free country-themed music and family entertainment event held on the Killacourt in Newquay, featuring live country music, line dancing, a rodeo bull and activities for all ages overlooking Towan Beach. Part of the wider Newquay Sessions programme, the event combines live entertainment, summer festival atmosphere and seaside views in the centre of town.
18 to 19 July 2026 A coastal festival celebrating sea swimming, watersports and beach culture on Exmouth seafront, bringing together open-water swims, aquathlon races, raft competitions, rescue demonstrations and community activities across a full weekend by the sea. Hosted at Sideshore Community Hub, the event combines fitness, family entertainment and environmental themes with a relaxed surf-and-saltwater atmosphere centred on Exmouth’s beach and watersports scene.
Beer Heights Light Railway Gala – July Summer Special, Pecorama, Beer, Devon 18 to 19 July 2026 A special summer gala weekend at Pecorama featuring the Beer Heights Light Railway, with visiting locomotives, extended running, and a focus on steam and miniature railway operation. Held as one of a small number of pre-booked event days in 2026, it offers a rare opportunity to experience the railway alongside the gardens and model railway setting above Beer.
Cattistock Countryside Show, Cattistock near Dorchester, Dorset 19 July 2026 Held in the Dorset hills near Maiden Newton, the Cattistock Countryside Show is a traditional one-day rural event featuring horse and dog shows, pony competitions, produce displays and family-friendly entertainment. Known as one of Dorset’s prettiest country shows, it also hosts the quirky Dorset Knob Throwing competition alongside food stalls, trade stands and a relaxed community atmosphere.
Giant Flea Market, Bath & West Showground, Shepton Mallet, Somerset 23 August 2026 One of the most popular South West events, this large indoor and outdoor flea market features more than 250 stalls selling everything from vintage furniture and clothing to collectables, crafts and retro items. Running from around 9:30 am, it’s a well-established market near you with food, a café and a wide mix of traders, making it a great choice for a relaxed day browsing and bargain hunting.
Armchair Adventure Festival, Mount Edgcumbe Country Park, Cornwall 23 to 26 July 2026 A unique adventure travel festival combining inspiring talks from world-leading explorers with outdoor activities, live music and a relaxed camping atmosphere overlooking the Tamar. Designed to inspire and involve, it blends storytelling, hands-on experiences, and a strong sense of community in one of the South West’s most scenic festival settings.
Altitude Festival, Blackborough, Devon 23 to 25 July 2026 Set in the Blackdown Hills near Blackborough, Altitude Festival is a small, family-friendly Devon festival with a laid-back feel, eclectic live music, DJs, local food, craft beers and family entertainment across three stages. With a capacity of around 2,500, it suits those looking for a more intimate festival atmosphere rather than a huge commercial event.
23 to 26 July 2026 A food, music and wellness festival held on the banks of the Camel Estuary near Rock, bringing together top chefs, street food, live music and outdoor experiences. It combines cooking demonstrations, tastings and headline performances with yoga, wild swimming and family-friendly activities in a scenic coastal setting.
Devonport Open Days, Devonport Royal Dockyard, Plymouth, Devon 24 July 2026 A rare opportunity to step inside Devonport Royal Dockyard and HM Naval Base, with behind-the-scenes access to one of the UK’s most important naval and engineering sites. Expect ship and dockyard access, live demonstrations, STEM activities and displays, with the event run by Babcock and the Royal Navy and free tickets available in advance.
24 to 26 July 2026 One of West Somerset’s biggest community celebrations, Watchet Carnival Weekend brings three days of free entertainment, live music and family-friendly activities to the historic harbour town. The festivities begin with a Music and Song Evening on Friday, followed by a lively Fiesta on Saturday, featuring entertainment throughout the town and on the Esplanade. Sunday concludes with the popular Carnival Fayre on Watchet Memorial Ground, with stalls, attractions and activities for all ages.
Sidmouth Arms Cider Festival, Upottery, Honiton 24 to 26 July 2026 A lively weekend of cider, live music and relaxed festival atmosphere at the Sidmouth Arms, Upottery, near Honiton, featuring local producers, bands and a friendly village setting. Expect a mix of great drinks, informal entertainment and a classic Westcountry feel across the weekend.
Bournemouth Reggae Weekender, Dorset 24 to 26 July 2026 Held at Kings Park in Boscombe, this lively three-day festival celebrates reggae, ska and dancehall alongside Caribbean culture, food and dance. It suits music fans and families alike, with live performances, workshops and a relaxed, inclusive atmosphere by the coast.
25 July 2026 A popular outdoor market on Cathedral Green brings together independent makers, artists, food producers and vintage traders from across Devon and the South West. The market features handmade crafts, clothing, local food and drink, live music and street performances in the setting of Exeter Cathedral
25 July 2027 The Ilfracombe Gig Regatta brings pilot gig clubs from across the South West to Ilfracombe Harbour for a day of competitive rowing and community celebrations. Visitors can watch the races from the quayside while enjoying food stalls and a lively atmosphere around the harbour.
25 July 2026 A free family-friendly disco held on the Killacourt in Newquay, celebrating the start of the summer school holidays with music, dancing and seaside-themed entertainment overlooking Towan Beach. Part of the wider Newquay Sessions programme, the event brings together live entertainment, summer atmosphere and family activities in the centre of town.
Saturday 25 July 2026 A popular indoor and outdoor flea market held at Newton Abbot Racecourse in Devon, bringing together stalls selling antiques, vintage finds, collectables and pre-loved items. The event attracts bargain hunters and traders from across the South West, with a lively mix of retro pieces, household goods and curios alongside refreshments and free on-site parking at the racecourse.
Natural Seaton Festival, Seaton, Devon 25 July 2026 A free community festival held across Seaton celebrating the natural environment, with activities, stalls and events taking place around the town, including the beach, amphitheatre and town centre locations.
Alstock Festival, Cornwall 25 July 2026 Held at Priory Park in Bodmin, this one-day charity music festival brings together live bands, tribute acts and local performers across multiple stages. It suits those looking for a lively but friendly atmosphere, with food stalls, a licensed bar and all proceeds supporting local charities in memory of Al Hodge.
Mid Devon Show, Devon 25 July 2026 Held at Knightshayes near Tiverton, this popular one-day agricultural show celebrates rural life in Mid Devon, with livestock competitions, countryside displays and a strong focus on local food and farming. It suits families and visitors looking for a traditional day out, with arena entertainment, trade stands and a friendly community atmosphere.
26 June 2026 A large-scale beach party and live dance music event held at Lusty Glaze Beach in Newquay, featuring Vernon Kay alongside DJ sets and classic 1990s dance anthems. Set on a private beach overlooking the Atlantic, the event celebrates the era of house, trance and rave culture with a sunset party atmosphere, live entertainment and coastal views.
Hot Pennies Festival, Honiton, Devon 28 July 2026 Held across Honiton town centre, this long-running street festival brings a lively mix of market stalls, live entertainment and traditional activities to the High Street. It suits visitors looking for a classic summer day out, with a busy market atmosphere, local traders and family-friendly events rooted in the town’s historic charter tradition.
New Wine Festival, Somerset 28 July to 2 August 2026 Held at the Bath & West Showground near Shepton Mallet, this large Christian summer gathering brings together thousands for a week of worship, teaching, live music and community, with dedicated programmes for children, youth and young adults alongside family-friendly activities.
28 July to 7 August 2026 A multi-day classical music festival held at the Collegiate Church of St Endellion near Port Isaac, featuring orchestral concerts, opera, chamber music, choral performances and recitals by internationally recognised musicians and singers. One of Cornwall’s most respected classical music festivals, it attracts performers and audiences from across the UK, creating an intimate and atmospheric programme of concerts within the historic church and surrounding North Cornwall landscape.
OutCider Festival, Compton Martin, Somerset 30 July to 2 August 2026 Held at Fernhill Farm in the Mendip Hills, this independent music and cider festival brings together over 35 live acts across two barn-covered stages. Expect an energetic, non-mainstream lineup, local cider, camping, and a friendly, inclusive atmosphere, making it a popular choice for those seeking a smaller, characterful festival experience in the South West.
30 July to 2 August 2026 A large family-friendly festival held in the grounds of Lulworth Castle, combining live music, entertainment and activities for all ages. It features headline acts, themed areas, workshops, comedy and children’s shows, creating a varied programme set in a historic parkland.
31 July, 5pm to 9pm A series of summer food and community events held on Cullompton High Street, featuring street food, craft stalls, live performances and local traders. Organised by Cullompton Town Council, the events create a relaxed early evening atmosphere with entertainment for all ages, followed by live bands at The Weary Traveller later in the evening.
DevonDays Festival, Holwell Farmhouse, Bampton (near Tiverton), Devon 31 July to 2 August 2026 A small-scale countryside festival celebrating Devon’s food, land and makers, with long-table dining, seasonal menus from regional chefs, live music and a programme of talks, tastings and workshops. Set on a working farm, it offers a slower-paced, immersive weekend focused on local produce, creativity and connection to the landscape.
Torbay Steam Fair, Brixham, Devon 31 July to 2 August 2026 A large three-day steam rally near Brixham featuring working steam engines, vintage vehicles, fairground rides, trade stands and family entertainment. One of the biggest events on the English Riviera calendar, it combines heritage displays with live music, food, and evening attractions, including a traditional illuminated show.
Sidmouth Folk Festival, Devon 31 July to 7 August 2026 The Sidmouth Folk Festival returns for eight days of folk music, dance, workshops, storytelling and family entertainment across venues throughout the East Devon seaside town. Concerts, ceilidhs, pub sessions and free outdoor performances combine with a lively fringe programme. Planning to visit? Accommodation in Sidmouth sells out quickly during festival week, so it is worth booking well in advance.
Poole Harbour Festival, Baiter Park, Poole 31 July to 2 August 2026 A large outdoor music and family festival set beside Poole Harbour, featuring live acts across multiple stages alongside DJs and tribute bands. Expect street food, bars, funfair rides and a lively weekend atmosphere, with options for both day visitors and campers.
31 July to 2 August 2026 Set on an organic farm overlooking Chew Valley Lake, Valley Fest is a well-established Somerset festival combining live music, local food and a strong focus on community, sustainability and wellbeing. Expect a mix of headline acts, street food, workshops, family activities and lakeside experiences, creating a relaxed and distinctive festival atmosphere rooted in the South West landscape.
Weston-super-Mare Sea Shanty & Folk Festival, Weston-super-Mare, Somerset 31 July to 2 August 2026 A lively seaside festival in Weston-super-Mare celebrating sea shanties and folk music, with more than 40 bands performing across pubs, venues and outdoor stages throughout the town. Free to attend and full of atmosphere, it brings a carnival feel to Weston with sing-alongs, street performances and a strong community spirit.
31 July to 2 August 2026 A Filipino-inspired camping and wellness festival held at Cornish Tipi Holidays near St Kew in North Cornwall, celebrating Filipino food, music, culture and nature-based experiences across a three-day programme. The event includes Filipino feasts and food tastings, live music, karaoke, wellness sessions and outdoor activities, combining camping, community celebrations and cultural experiences in a woodland setting.
What’s On in South West England in August 2026
What’s on in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset in August 2026? Discover major summer festivals, coastal events, family-friendly days out and bank holiday weekends across South West England, as the peak holiday season continues.
Great Dorset Chilli Festival, Stock Gaylard Estate near Sturminster Newton, Dorset 1 to 2 August 2026 Held in the grounds of Stock Gaylard Estate, this lively Dorset food festival celebrates all things chilli, with more than 100 traders, artisan producers and specialist growers alongside spicy street food, local drinks and live music. Expect chilli eating competitions, cookery demonstrations and family-friendly entertainment, creating a fun and flavour-packed summer event with something for all tastes.
Mamma Mia! – The Grand Hotel, Torquay 2 August 2026 An ABBA tribute terrace party at The Grand Hotel featuring live music from Pure ABBA, a 1970s themed atmosphere, Mediterranean style food and dancing overlooking the seafront.
Truro Classic Car Show, Truro City Centre, Cornwall 2 August 2026 A free, family-friendly event bringing classic cars, vintage vehicles and motorcycles into Truro city centre, with displays spread across streets and squares. Alongside the vehicles, expect automobilia stalls, live music, and a lively atmosphere, with park-and-ride access making it easy to visit.
Clovelly Lifeboat Day, Devon 2 August 2026 An RNLI-focused event with rescue demonstrations and family activities.
North Devon Show, Umberleigh, Devon 5 August 2026 A traditional one-day agricultural show celebrating rural life in North Devon, with livestock competitions, equestrian events, trade stands and local food.
7 August 2026 An open-air theatre performance of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland staged on the South Lawn at Forde Abbey, combining live music, humour and family entertainment in the grounds of the historic Somerset estate. Presented by This Is My Theatre, the evening event invites audiences to bring picnics and deckchairs for a summer performance overlooking the abbey gardens and countryside setting.
7 August 2026 An internationally acclaimed chamber ensemble performs at Mount Dinham in Exeter, with a programme including Elgar, Fanny Mendelssohn and Beethoven’s “Archduke” Trio. Known for innovative arrangements and virtuosic performances, the Linos Piano Trio brings a varied evening of classical music to the city.
This Ain’t Texas Festival, Torbay, Devon 8 August 2026 A one-day country music festival at Torbay Showground bringing Nashville-style energy to the South West, with live tribute acts, line dancing and all-day outdoor entertainment. Expect country anthems, American BBQ, bars, and a lively, family-friendly atmosphere with a strong focus on music, food, and feel-good festival fun.
Newton Abbot Country Show, Newton Abbot Racecourse, Devon 8 August 2026 A popular summer country show at Newton Abbot Racecourse, bringing together local producers, craft and trade stalls, food and drink, and family-friendly entertainment. Expect a mix of outdoor displays, activities and live attractions, with highlights such as a dog show and children’s areas, creating a relaxed and varied day out for all ages.
Beer Regatta, Beer, Devon 8 to 14 August 2026 Held across the village and seafront in Beer, this long-running regatta week combines traditional boat races with a lively programme of community events and entertainment. It suits visitors seeking a classic seaside summer atmosphere, with a mix of races, games, live entertainment, fireworks, and family-friendly activities throughout the week.
5 to 9 August 2026 One of the UK’s leading summer festivals, combining live music with international surfing competitions on the north coast of Cornwall. Held in Newquay, it brings together headline artists, surf contests and beach culture against the backdrop of Fistral Beach. Heading to Boardmasters? Find accommodation near Newquay.
Honiton Show, Devon 6 August 2026 Held in the East Devon countryside near Honiton, this long-running agricultural show celebrates farming, rural skills and local produce. It offers livestock displays, crafts, food and entertainment, making it ideal for a traditional countryside day out.
7 to 9 August 2026 A large heritage and vintage rally held on the Boconnoc Estate near Lostwithiel, featuring full-size and miniature steam engines, classic cars, vintage tractors, military vehicles, fairground rides and traditional steam-powered attractions. One of Cornwall’s best-known steam fairs, it attracts exhibitors and visitors from across the South West, creating a lively family-friendly atmosphere with arena displays, trailer rides, craft stalls, food tents and camping across the estate grounds.
Bristol International Balloon Fiesta 7 to 9 August 2026 The Bristol International Balloon Fiesta is one of the UK’s most spectacular free events, filling the skies over Ashton Court with hundreds of hot air balloons each August. Famous for its mass ascents and night glows, it is a standout highlight of Bristol’s summer events calendar.
Falmouth Week, Falmouth, Cornwall 7 to 16 August 2026 One of the South West’s biggest summer events, combining a major sailing regatta with ten days of live music, markets, family activities and town-wide celebrations. Highlights include the Pink Wig Mermaid March, Falmouth Carnival, an air display, evening entertainment and a harbour fireworks display, alongside daily racing on the water.
Bude Food Festival (Summer), Bude, Cornwall 9 August 2026 A one-day artisan food festival held in the grounds of The Castle in Bude, bringing together local producers, street food traders and craft drinks. Expect everything from fresh-baked bread and local meats to street food, cider and gin, in a relaxed coastal setting overlooking the beach.
North Devon Festival of Transport, Bideford, Devon 9 August 2026 A large one-day vehicle show at Victoria Park and Bideford Quay featuring classic cars, vintage vehicles, buses, bikes and tractors, alongside displays, stalls and family entertainment. Run as a charity-focused community event, it offers a full day out celebrating transport heritage in North Devon.
FamFest Live Torbay, Torbay Showground, Paignton 9 August 2026 A colourful, family-focused outdoor festival with live music, interactive shows and plenty of space for younger children to explore. Expect sing-alongs, dance sessions and creative workshops alongside inflatables, funfair rides and relaxed zones for families. Running from midday to evening, it offers a full day of entertainment, including food, activities, and a friendly festival atmosphere suitable for all ages.
10 to 15 August 2026 A multi-day literary festival held at the Palace Theatre in Paignton, bringing together well-known authors, speakers and performers for a varied programme of talks, discussions and live events. Expect author sessions, book signings, panel discussions and a mix of ticketed and free events, creating a lively celebration of books and storytelling on the English Riviera.
11 August 2026 Part of the wider Falmouth Week celebrations, Falmouth Rocks Night brings an evening of live rock music to Events Square in the heart of the town. The 2026 programme features tribute performances from AC/DC UK and Guns 2 Roses, recreating the music and energy of two of rock’s most iconic bands. Taking place alongside one of Cornwall’s biggest summer festivals, the event combines live entertainment with the vibrant atmosphere of Falmouth Week, which includes sailing races, family activities and a packed programme of shoreside events throughout the town.
12 to 13 August 2026 One of the South West’s biggest free summer events, the British Firework Championships sees leading pyrotechnic companies compete across two evenings above Plymouth Sound, with large-scale choreographed displays launched from Mount Batten Breakwater. Drawing huge crowds to Plymouth Hoe and the waterfront, the event combines spectacular fireworks, live entertainment, fairground rides and a festival atmosphere, with six companies battling to be crowned British champions.
13 August 2026 A traditional one-day agricultural show held on the edge of Dartmoor at Stoney Park Showground, featuring livestock competitions, horse classes, local food and drink, rural crafts, trade stands and family entertainment. One of Devon’s largest agricultural shows, it attracts farmers, exhibitors and visitors from across the South West, creating a lively celebration of countryside life, farming traditions and local produce.
13 to 15 August 2026 Held at Fernhill Farm in the Mendip Hills, ArcTanGent is a specialist music festival focused on experimental rock, math rock and post-rock, attracting a dedicated international audience. Known for its carefully curated lineup and multiple intimate stages, it offers a distinctive alternative to mainstream festivals, with camping, food, bars and a strong community atmosphere.
Minelab 500 Metal Detecting Weekender, Somerset 14 to 16 August 2026 A large-scale metal-detecting event bringing together enthusiasts for three days of detecting, camping, and community. It combines access to farmland with a festival-style atmosphere, including live music, traders and food.
West of England Steam Engine Society Rally (WESES), Cornwall 14 to 16 August 2026 Held at Stithians Showground near Redruth, this large traditional steam rally features around 70 full-size steam engines, vintage vehicles, working machinery, craft displays and live entertainment, alongside family-friendly activities and catering across a busy three-day showground.
14 to 16 August 2026 Held at West Bay Fields near Bridport, Jurassic Fields is a three-day Dorset music festival combining live bands, DJs and family-friendly entertainment across multiple stages. With a mix of well-known acts, tribute performances, local talent, camping and a relaxed coastal setting, it offers an accessible, community-focused festival atmosphere for all ages.
15 August 2026 A summer music festival at Lupton House near Brixham featuring tribute performances celebrating artists including Bon Jovi, Robbie Williams, Tina Turner and U2. The event combines live music with street food, bars and a relaxed outdoor festival atmosphere within the grounds of the historic country house, running from afternoon into the evening.
15 August 2026 A free summer music event held on the Killacourt in Newquay, featuring DJ sets, live performances and sunset views overlooking Towan Beach. Part of the Newquay Sessions programme, the event combines laid-back summer atmosphere, coastal scenery and live entertainment in the centre of town.
Mamma Mia! ExtrABBAganza, Powderham Castle, Exeter, Devon 15 August 2026 An outdoor cinema and live entertainment evening set in the grounds of Powderham Castle, combining a screening of Mamma Mia! with an ABBA disco and singalong atmosphere. Expect a large open-air screen, street food, bars and a relaxed picnic-style setting, with visitors encouraged to bring blankets or chairs and enjoy a lively summer evening of music and film.
A one-day outdoor music event featuring leading UK tribute acts, including Queen, ABBA, Oasis and Coldplay, performed on a full stage setup at Newton Abbot Racecourse. Expect a lively festival atmosphere with bars, street food and a full afternoon and evening of familiar hits.
West of England Steam Engine Society Rally (WESES), Stithians Showground, Cornwall 14 to 16 August 2026 One of Cornwall’s largest traditional steam rallies, featuring around 70 full-size steam engines alongside vintage vehicles, tractors, working machinery and craft displays. The event includes arena entertainment, rural demonstrations, live music, trade stands and family activities, creating a classic countryside show with something for all ages.
The Western Motorhome & Campervan Show, Worcestershire 14 to 16 August 2026 Held at the Three Counties Showground in Malvern, this long-running outdoor show combines motorhomes, campervans and trade stands with live music and evening entertainment. It suits owners and enthusiasts alike, with a relaxed festival atmosphere, on-site camping and a strong community feel.
15 August 2026 A long-running summer carnival and community celebration held in the seaside town of Bude, featuring an evening procession of decorated floats, walking groups, royalty entries and vintage vehicles through the town centre. Dating back to the 1920s and raising money for local charities and organisations, the event combines traditional West Country carnival atmosphere with live entertainment, daytime activities and a lively coastal setting around Bude Rugby Club and the town streets.
Beer Heights Light Railway Gala – August, Pecorama, Beer, Devon 15 to 16 August 2026 A late-summer gala weekend at Pecorama featuring the Beer Heights Light Railway, with visiting locomotives, extended train running and a focus on steam operations. One of a small number of special event days in 2026, it offers a rare chance to experience the railway alongside the gardens above Beer, with access limited to pre-booked events only.
FamFest Live Plymouth, Central Park, Plymouth 15 to 16 August 2026 A lively, family-focused outdoor festival combining live music, entertainment and interactive activities across two full days. Expect main-stage performances from tribute acts and family-friendly artists, alongside kids’ zones, inflatables, games, workshops, and funfair-style attractions. With food stalls, open space and a relaxed atmosphere, it is designed as an all-ages day out, with something to keep both children and adults engaged from midday through to the evening.
Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week, Dorset 15 to 23 August 2026 A week-long seaside festival raising funds for the RNLI, with family-friendly events, displays and entertainment along the seafront. The highlight in 2026 is the return of the RAF Red Arrows on 16 August (date change from 15 August to be confirmed), drawing large crowds for a spectacular air display over Lyme Bay.
Mid-Somerset Show, Shepton Mallet, Somerset 16 August 2026 Held at the Mid-Somerset Showground, this traditional one-day agricultural show celebrates rural life with livestock displays, equine events, crafts and local produce. It suits families and visitors looking for an authentic countryside day out, with main ring entertainment, food halls, classic vehicles and competitions across farming, food and the arts.
Flats & Sharps, Otterton Mill, Devon 20 August 2026 A lively evening of bluegrass from this Cornwall-based four-piece, known for energetic performances, tight harmonies and a modern take on traditional sounds. Set in the atmospheric Otterton Mill courtyard near Budleigh Salterton, the show promises a fun, foot-stomping night with food available beforehand and tickets recommended in advance.
20 to 23 August 2026 A multi-day folk and roots music festival held on a farm near the Jurassic Coast in Dorset, featuring a wide mix of folk, acoustic and world music across several stages. It combines live performances with workshops, craft areas and a range of activities set within the Purbeck countryside.
20 to 23 August 2026 Set in the grounds of Wimborne St Giles in Dorset, We Out Here Festival is a four-day event celebrating genre-spanning music, creativity and community, with a strong focus on jazz, soul, hip hop, electronic and global sounds. Expect a carefully curated lineup featuring artists such as Thundercat, Joy Crookes and Digable Planets, alongside DJs, workshops, talks and family-friendly activities, creating a diverse and immersive festival experience.
Dunster Show, Somerset 21 August 2026 A traditional agricultural show near Exmoor, with livestock and rural displays.
21 to 23 August 2026 A well-established family-friendly music festival held at Escot Park, featuring a mix of folk, rock and roots music alongside comedy, crafts and workshops. It combines multiple stages, a relaxed festival layout and a varied programme of entertainment set within parkland in East Devon. Staying overnight? Find accommodation nearby.
21 to 24 August 2026 A multi-day sailing regatta held on the waters of Torbay and based around the Royal Torbay Yacht Club in Torquay, featuring yacht racing, national championships and competitive sailing events across multiple classes. One of Devon’s best-known sailing events, it attracts competitors and visitors from across the UK, creating a lively atmosphere along the English Riviera with racing, harbour activity and waterfront viewing points throughout the regatta weekend.
22 August 2026 A large-scale beach dance music event held at Lusty Glaze Beach in Newquay, featuring legendary DJ and broadcaster Pete Tong performing on a unique 360° stage overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Part of the Lusty Glaze Sundowner Sessions, the event combines electronic music, beach party atmosphere and sunset coastal views, with live DJ sets and dance music celebrations on one of Cornwall’s best-known beach venues.
22 August 2026 A free live music event held on the Killacourt in Newquay, featuring performances chosen by the public as part of the closing event in the 2026 Newquay Sessions programme. Overlooking Towan Beach, the event brings together live music, summer atmosphere and community entertainment, rounding off the season with a full day of performances and seaside festival vibes.
22 to 30 August 2026 A nine-day nautical festival celebrating the seas, wildlife and maritime heritage of the Isles of Scilly, with activities taking place on, in and around the water across the islands. The programme includes sea swims, kayaking, wildlife safaris, coastal walks, talks and outdoor adventures, highlighting the islands’ strong connection with the Atlantic Ocean.
Uffculme Show & Country Fayre, Uffculme (near Cullompton), Devon 23 August 2026 A traditional one-day country show at Bridwell Park featuring arena displays, classic and vintage vehicles, dog shows, local crafts, food stalls and live entertainment. With a strong community feel and activities for all ages, it offers a classic Devon countryside day out from 10 am to 5 pm.
23 July to 2 August 2026 A long-running community festival and carnival celebration held across Paignton Green and the surrounding seafront, featuring live entertainment, family activities, funfair attractions, classic vehicles and community events across more than a week of festivities.
26 to 29 August 2026 The Port of Dartmouth Royal Regatta returns with four days of rowing and sailing competitions, live entertainment and family activities around the River Dart. Visitors can enjoy shoreside attractions, markets, live music, air displays and the traditional Saturday night fireworks that bring the annual celebration to a spectacular close. Staying overnight for Dartmouth Regatta? Compare hotels in Dartmouth.
27 August 2026 A large agricultural show held at West Bay Showground near Bridport, celebrating farming, food and rural life with livestock competitions, equestrian events, horticulture displays and more than 400 trade stands. One of Dorset’s leading countryside events, it attracts visitors from across the region for a full day out combining traditional agriculture with family-friendly entertainment and local produce.
27 to 30 August 2026 Held over the August bank holiday in the grounds of Port Eliot Estate near St Germans, Tunes in the Park is a multi-day Cornwall festival blending live music, DJs, comedy and family-friendly entertainment across several stages. The lineup mixes well-known acts such as Jessie J, Faithless and Basement Jaxx with tribute acts, local performers and themed areas, creating a lively but accessible festival suited to a broad audience.
Cornwall Folk Festival, Wadebridge, Cornwall 27 to 31 August 2026 One of Cornwall’s longest-running music festivals, held over the August bank holiday weekend with a mix of concerts, ceilidhs, workshops and informal sessions across the town. The programme includes ticketed performances alongside free street entertainment, pub sessions and family-friendly events, creating a lively folk atmosphere throughout Wadebridge.
28 August 2026, 5pm to 9pm A series of summer food and community events held on Cullompton High Street, featuring street food, craft stalls, live performances and local traders. Organised by Cullompton Town Council, the events create a relaxed early evening atmosphere with entertainment for all ages, followed by live bands at The Weary Traveller later in the evening.
Riviera Tribute Festival, Paignton, Devon 28 to 29 August 2026 A lively weekend music festival at Torbay Showground featuring top UK tribute acts performing crowd favourite hits alongside live music, food stalls and a funfair atmosphere. Family-friendly and easy to enjoy, it combines sing-along anthems with a relaxed summer festival setting on the English Riviera.
Truckfest South West, Bath & West Showground, Shepton Mallet, Somerset 28 to 30 August 2026 One of the biggest South West events for motors and family entertainment, featuring monster truck shows, stunt displays, live music and hundreds of trucks from across the UK. Expect arena action, rides, trade stands and a festival-style atmosphere, making it one of the standout vehicle festivals near you in Somerset.
Cowes–Torquay–Cowes Powerboat Race, Torquay, Devon 28 to 30 August 2026 A high-speed offshore powerboat race forming part of the Cowes Powerboat Festival, with boats racing from Cowes to Torquay and back along the south coast. One of the longest-running offshore powerboat races in the world, it brings international teams, powerful race boats and a strong spectator atmosphere to Torquay and the wider coastline.
Sidmouth Regatta, Devon 28 to 31 August 2026 Sidmouth Regatta takes place over the August Bank Holiday weekend in Sidmouth, bringing a lively mix of sailing, beach events and family activities to the East Devon coast. Highlights typically include a spectacular air show and seafront fireworks, making it one of the standout late-summer events in South West England.
Dartmoor Outdoor Festival, Princetown, Dartmoor (multiple locations), Devon 28 August to 4 September 2026 A week-long outdoor festival centred on Princetown, featuring guided walks, climbing sessions, navigation workshops, talks and live music across Dartmoor. Designed for all ages and abilities, it offers a chance to explore lesser-known parts of the moor while taking part in a varied programme of activities celebrating outdoor adventure and community.
Minehead Bay Festival, Minehead, Somerset 29 August 2026 A free, community-led seaside festival celebrating art, culture and live music on Minehead’s seafront. Expect a varied programme including live performances, street art, circus acts, workshops and family activities, alongside street food and local traders. Set along the Esplanade, it offers a relaxed, creative atmosphere and is designed to be accessible and welcoming to all.
29 August 2026 A popular outdoor market on Cathedral Green brings together independent makers, artists, food producers and vintage traders from across Devon and the South West. The market features handmade crafts, clothing, local food and drink, live music and street performances in the setting of Exeter Cathedral
Saturday 29 August 2026 A popular indoor and outdoor flea market held at Newton Abbot Racecourse in Devon, bringing together stalls selling antiques, collectables, vintage items, retro finds and second-hand bargains. The market attracts traders and visitors from across the South West, with a wide mix of bric-a-brac, household items and curios alongside refreshments and free on-site parking.
29 to 30 August 2026 A two-day music festival held on The Downs in Bristol, featuring major international artists alongside emerging talent across a genre-spanning lineup. It combines live performances with talks, cultural content and food, creating a broader festival experience that reflects Bristol’s strong musical heritage and contemporary scene.
Honiton Hill Rally, Smeatharpe (near Honiton), Devon 30 to 31 August 2026 A long-running August bank holiday rally celebrating rural and mechanical heritage, held at Smeatharpe Airfield. Expect a wide mix of vintage tractors, steam engines, classic vehicles, military displays and working machinery, alongside tractor pulling, lawn mower racing, craft stalls and a traditional fairground, making it a well-established family day out with plenty to see across the site.
30 August 2026 A one-day outdoor music festival at Vivary Park in Taunton, celebrating classic 1980s synth pop, electronic music, and live performances in a lively summer setting. Featuring headline artists, DJs, food and drink stalls, and a festival atmosphere in the centre of Somerset, the event combines nostalgic live music with a large, open-air crowd and a late-summer party atmosphere.
30 August 2026 A free family-friendly summer fair set within the historic grounds of Torre Abbey in Torquay, featuring artisan craft stalls, live music, children’s workshops, storytelling sessions and traditional carnival-style games. The event combines community entertainment, local traders and outdoor activities with a relaxed festival atmosphere, alongside food and drink stalls, face painting and a light-hearted dog show in the abbey gardens.
31 August (Monday) – Summer bank holiday
What’s On in South West England in September 2026
What’s on in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset in September 2026? Discover food festivals, cultural events, live music and late summer days out across South West England, as the season changes into early autumn and the crowds begin to ease.
Burn It Down Festival, Devon 3 to 5 September 2026 Held across multiple venues in Torquay, including The Foundry, The Attic, and The Apple & Parrot, this indoor alternative music festival brings together punk, hardcore, emo, metal and rock acts in an intimate, high-energy setting on the English Riviera.
4 to 5 September 2026 An independent family-friendly music festival in the Devon countryside, featuring live music across two stages alongside local food, camping and entertainment for all ages. Celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2026, the weekend event includes headline performances from Kaiser Chiefs, The Feeling, Ellie Sax Presents Ibiza Anthems Live and Charlie Hedges, alongside fairground rides, fireworks and family activities at Allacott Farm in North Devon.
4 to 5 September 2026 A charity music festival at Stoke Gabriel Cricket Ground in South Devon, featuring live bands, tribute acts and entertainment across two days in aid of children affected by humanitarian crises overseas. Organised by the ESSW Charitable Trust, the weekend event combines live music, camping, food stalls and a community-focused festival setting overlooking the Dart Valley countryside.
4 to 6 September 2026 One of the UK’s biggest touring food festivals, bringing together celebrity chefs, street food, artisan producers, live music and cooking demonstrations in Royal Victoria Park, Bath. The three-day event features chef theatres, cake and bake stages, fire cooking demonstrations and live performances from headline music acts, alongside food stalls, tastings and family-friendly entertainment in one of Bath’s best-known park settings.
4 to 6 September 2026 A lively coastal festival celebrating Cornwall’s maritime heritage with sea shanty performances, pirate-themed entertainment and family activities taking place across The Lizard village. Bringing together live music, traditional shanty groups, pirate parades, costumes and community events, it creates a fun and informal festival atmosphere inspired by Cornwall’s seafaring history and coastal culture.
Ice Rock Winterfest, Bath & West Showground, Shepton Mallet, Somerset 4 to 6 September 2026 A new South West events entry for 2026, this three-day heavy rock and metal festival brings together live bands, DJs, comedy and indoor camping for a full weekend experience. Expect multiple stages, late-night entertainment and a strong festival atmosphere.
Kernowfornia Festival, Looe 4 to 6 September 2026 A beachside music festival on East Looe Beach featuring live bands across two stages, with a strong community feel and mix of well-known and grassroots artists.
Wellington Independent Food & Drink Festival, Wellington, Somerset 5 September 2026 A lively town-centre food festival celebrating independent producers from Somerset and the wider South West, with street food, local drinks, artisan stalls and live music. Held across Wellington’s High Street,
Seaton Carnival, Seaton, Devon 5 September 2026 A lively seaside carnival featuring a traditional evening procession, decorated floats, music and community groups. Part of the East Devon Carnival circuit, it brings a strong coastal atmosphere with entertainment throughout the day, leading into the main evening parade.
This Ain’t Texas Festival, Par, Cornwall 5 September 2026 A lively country music festival bringing Nashville-style sounds, line dancing and American BBQ to Cornwall, with a fun, family-friendly outdoor atmosphere.
Dorset County Show 5 to 6 September 2026 Held near Dorchester, this is Dorset’s main agricultural show, with livestock, food and countryside displays.
The Labyrinth Challenge 10 Year Anniversary Tour, Bath & West Showground, Shepton Mallet, Somerset 5 to 6 September 2026 One of the more active South West events for families and groups, this touring inflatable attraction features a 1,000ft obstacle course alongside the world’s largest bouncy castle, with timed sessions and unlimited runs during each slot. Expect a mix of physical challenges, chill-out zones and an adults-only evening session on the Saturday, making it a distinctive event.
The Wreckers Dawlish Bike & Trike Show, The Den, Dawlish, Devon 6 September 2026 A charity bike and trike show supporting veterans, held on The Den seafront in Dawlish. Expect a wide range of motorcycles and trikes, competitions, live music, food and drink, and a relaxed community atmosphere, with proceeds supporting the Armed Forces Bikers Veterans Charity.
FamFest Live Cornwall, Par Market, St Austell 6 September 2026 A family-focused outdoor festival designed especially for younger children, combining live music, interactive shows and hands-on activities in a relaxed, welcoming setting. Expect sing-alongs, creative workshops, inflatable play zones, funfair rides and dedicated discovery areas, alongside food stalls and open space to unwind. With a mix of high-energy entertainment and calmer areas, it works well as a full day out for families, running from midday into the evening.
Bridport Hat Festival, Dorset 6 September 2026 A creative and slightly quirky event in Bridport town centre, where visitors are encouraged to wear imaginative hats, giving it a relaxed and informal feel.
Widecombe Fair, Widecombe-in-the-Moor, Dartmoor, Devon 8 September 2026 A traditional Dartmoor country fair held on the second Tuesday in September, featuring livestock judging, rural crafts, vintage vehicles, dog shows and local produce alongside live music and family activities. One of Devon’s most distinctive events, it blends agricultural heritage with a lively village atmosphere and attracts visitors from across the South West.
11 September 2026 A chamber music concert in Exeter featuring the young and fast-rising Apricity Trio. The programme includes works by Kahn, John Ireland and Brahms, performed by the Royal College of Music ensemble at St Michael & All Angels, Mount Dinham.
Little Orchard Cider & Music Festival, Penhallow near Truro, Cornwall 11 to 13 September 2026 A well-established Cornish cider and music festival held at Healeys Cyder Farm, combining live bands, a silent disco and a wide range of ciders from across the UK alongside food, camping and glamping. Known for its relaxed, sociable atmosphere, it hosts a lively end-of-summer festival with a strong focus on music, cider and good company.
The South West Motorhome & Campervan Show, Somerset 11 to 13 September 2026 Held at the Bath & West Showground near Shepton Mallet, this large outdoor show brings together motorhomes, campervans and over 150 exhibitors alongside expert talks and live demonstrations. It suits buyers, owners and enthusiasts alike, with live entertainment, food and a relaxed festival-style atmosphere across the weekend.
11 to 20 September 2026 A ten-day food and drink festival celebrating local produce, seafood and island hospitality across the Isles of Scilly. Events include beach barbecues, supper safaris, vineyard tours, tastings and special dining experiences showcasing locally grown and freshly landed ingredients from across the archipelago.
Colyton Carnival, Colyton, Devon 12 September 2026 A carnival with illuminated floats, walking groups and local organisations taking part in an evening procession. Known for its friendly atmosphere and strong community involvement, it forms a key part of the East Devon circuit.
Exeter Quayside Shanty Festival, Exeter, Devon 12 September 2026 A free day and evening of sea shanties and maritime folk music set around Exeter’s historic quayside, with performances from visiting groups and local singers. Family-friendly and full of atmosphere, it brings live music to waterside venues and open spaces across the heritage harbour.
12 September 2026 A free family-friendly environmental festival held at Camborne Recreation Ground, featuring live music, eco-themed stalls, food and drink, children’s activities, workshops and community organisations promoting sustainability and green living. Part of the national Great Big Green Week celebrations, the event attracts local groups, performers and visitors from across Cornwall, creating a lively day of entertainment and environmental activities in the heart of Camborne.
Build It Live South West, Westpoint Exeter, Clyst St Mary, Devon 12 to 13 September 2026 One of the more practical South West events for self-build and renovation, this two-day exhibition brings together hundreds of suppliers, expert advice clinics and free seminars covering everything from planning permission to design and construction. Visitors can meet architects and specialists, explore thousands of products and attend workshops, making it a well-established event for anyone planning a home project.
Sacred Wild Festival, near Shepton Mallet, Somerset 12 to 13 September 2026 A nature-based wellbeing festival set in the Somerset countryside, combining workshops, talks, yoga, sound healing and live music in a woodland and lake setting. It focuses on community, ecology and reconnecting with nature, with optional camping and immersive outdoor experiences.
Shepton Mallet Antiques, Vintage & Collectors Fair, Somerset 18 to 20 September 2026 Held at the Royal Bath & West Showground near Shepton Mallet, this large antiques fair features up to 600 stands across multiple halls, offering everything from furniture and decorative pieces to vintage clothing, collectables and restoration items.
Taste East Devon Festival, East Devon, Devon 12 to 20 September 2026 Held across venues throughout East Devon, this multi-day food and drink festival celebrates the region’s producers, chefs and local businesses with a varied programme of events. It suits visitors looking to explore local food culture, with tastings, farm experiences, dining events and workshops taking place from Exmouth to Axminster and across the surrounding countryside.
Sidmouth & East Devon Walking Festival, Sidmouth, Devon 12 to 18 September 2026 Held across Sidmouth and the wider East Devon countryside, this week-long walking festival offers a varied programme of guided walks along the Jurassic Coast, countryside trails and historic routes. It suits visitors looking to explore the region on foot, with options for all abilities, knowledgeable local guides and a relaxed, sociable atmosphere.
St Ives September Festival, Cornwall 12 to 26 September 2026 A two-week arts and music festival across one of Cornwall’s best-known coastal towns.
Wells Soup, Wells, Somerset 12 September 2026 Held at Wells Cathedral, this community fundraising event brings together local people for an afternoon of food, live charity pitches and audience voting. It suits visitors looking for a relaxed, social event with a strong local focus, where a small entry fee includes homemade soup and the chance to support projects competing for a share of the funds.
Seafest, Plymouth, Devon 12 to 13 September 2026 Seafest Plymouth is a free waterfront festival celebrating the city’s connection to the sea, with seafood, live cooking demonstrations, music and marine-themed activities spread across locations such as the Barbican, Sutton Harbour and Royal William Yard. It combines local food, water sports, entertainment and sustainability themes, bringing the whole waterfront to life for a family-friendly weekend each September.
International Agatha Christie Festival, Devon 12 to 20 September 2026 Held across the English Riviera, including Torquay, Paignton and Brixham, this literary festival celebrates Agatha Christie’s life and work with talks, guided walks, performances, films and a wider fringe programme exploring her Devon connections.
Abbfest, Devon 18 to 20 September 2026 Abbfest is a volunteer-run charity festival held near Newton Abbot in Devon, bringing together live music, locally produced beer and cider, food stalls and craft producers in a relaxed countryside setting. It is designed to celebrate Westcountry food and drink while raising funds for local causes, with more than £250,000 donated to community projects over the years.
18 to 27 September 2026 A multi-day literary festival held across the historic fishing village of Appledore in North Devon, featuring author talks, interviews, workshops, performances and community events. The festival attracts well-known writers, broadcasters and public figures alongside readers and visitors from across the South West, creating a lively cultural atmosphere throughout the village’s halls, churches and waterfront venues.
Mere Carnival, Mere, Wiltshire 19 September 2026 An evening illuminated procession through the town, featuring decorated carts, walking entries and music. It opens the Wessex Grand Prix circuit with a traditional carnival format.
Axminster Carnival, Axminster, Devon 19 September 2026 A popular town carnival featuring a vibrant procession of floats, bands and performers through the streets of Axminster. Expect a mix of traditional carnival entries, local creativity and a lively evening crowd.
Bristol Sea Shanty Festival (SS Great Britain), Bristol 19 to 20 September 2026 A free maritime music festival centred around the SS Great Britain and Bristol’s historic harbourside, featuring dozens of sea shanty groups performing across venues including the Great Eastern Hall and Underfall Yard. With a lively atmosphere and strong maritime heritage, it’s one of the best places to experience traditional sea songs in an authentic setting.
Newquay Beer Festival, Newquay, Cornwall 18 to 20 September 2026 A lively charity beer festival at Hendra Holiday Park featuring over 100 beers, ciders and craft drinks alongside live music, food stalls and entertainment across the weekend. Organised by the Newquay Towan Blystra Lions, it combines a friendly festival atmosphere with fundraising for local causes, making it a popular late-season highlight in Cornwall.
20 September 2026 One of the South West’s best-known road running events, the Torbay Half Marathon & 10K follows a scenic coastal route around the English Riviera, with races taking place along the seafronts of Paignton and Torquay. Returning for 2026, the event combines closed-road racing, strong crowd support and sea views across Torbay, attracting runners of all abilities for both the half-marathon and 10K distances.
25 to 26 September 2026 A multi-day arts and culture festival held across Bournemouth town centre and gardens, featuring live music, outdoor performances, installations, dance, theatre and interactive experiences. One of the South West’s largest free arts festivals, it attracts performers, artists and visitors from across the region, creating a lively programme of events and large-scale spectacles throughout the town’s public spaces.
Frome Carnival, Frome, Somerset 26 September 2026 A well-supported town carnival with illuminated carts and a varied procession route through Frome. Known for attracting strong entries from across the circuit.
Wellington Carnival, Wellington, Somerset 26 September 2026 An evening illuminated procession through the town, featuring decorated carts, walking entries and live music. It opens the South Somerset Federation circuit with a well-supported local turnout.
Sidmouth Carnival, Sidmouth, Devon 26 September 2026 One of the best-known events in the circuit, combining a full day of entertainment with a large evening procession along the seafront. Expect live music and a strong carnival atmosphere across the town.
Colyford Goose Fayre, Devon 26 September 2026 Held in the village of Colyford near Seaton, this traditional medieval fayre features a colourful procession, historic crafts, music and family-friendly activities. It offers a unique step back in time, with local food, stalls and entertainment centred around Michaelmas traditions.
This Ain’t Texas Festival, Shepton Mallet, Somerset 26 September 2026 A one-day country music festival at the Bath & West Showground, bringing Nashville-style energy to the South West, with live tribute acts, line dancing and all-day outdoor entertainment. Expect country anthems, Texas-style BBQ, bars and a lively, family-friendly atmosphere with a strong focus on music, food and feel-good festival fun.
Somerset’s Festival of Transport, Frome, Somerset 26 to 27 September 2026 A large end-of-season transport show at West Woodlands Showground featuring steam engines, classic cars, military vehicles, tractors and vintage displays, alongside a traditional funfair, arena entertainment and trade stalls. With camping, evening entertainment and family-friendly activities, it offers a full weekend celebrating transport heritage in Somerset.
Giant Flea Market, Bath & West Showground, Shepton Mallet, Somerset 27 September 2026 One of the most established South West events, this large indoor and outdoor flea market features more than 250 stalls selling vintage furniture, clothing, collectables and retro items. A popular market near you in Somerset, it runs from 9:30 am and features food, a café, and a wide mix of traders, making it a strong choice for browsing and bargain hunting.
30 September to 3 October 2026 A historic multi-day fair and street market held in Bridgwater each autumn, featuring one of the South West’s largest travelling funfairs alongside traditional market stalls, food traders and fairground attractions across St Matthew’s Field and West Street. Dating back nearly 800 years, the event attracts large crowds from across Somerset and beyond, creating a lively atmosphere with rides, entertainment and long-standing local traditions in the centre of the town.
What’s On in South West England in October 2026
What’s on in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset in October 2026? Discover food festivals, seasonal events, live entertainment and autumn days out across South West England, with harvest celebrations, cultural festivals and half-term activities throughout the month.
1 to 4 October 2026 A multi-day blues and roots music festival held across pubs, bars and live music venues throughout Swanage and the Isle of Purbeck, featuring dozens of performances from blues, soul and roots artists from across the UK. One of the South West’s best-known blues festivals, it creates a lively atmosphere across the seaside town, with live music running throughout the day and evening across multiple venues.
3 October 2026 One of the UK’s best-known pianists performs at Mount Dinham in Exeter, with a solo recital featuring music by Mozart, Schumann, Beethoven, Chopin, Debussy, John Ireland and Liszt. The evening forms part of the Mount Dinham classical concert series held at St Michael & All Angels.
Shaftesbury Carnival, Shaftesbury, Dorset 3 October 2026 An evening procession through the hilltop town, with illuminated carts and local groups creating a distinctive setting on the Dorset circuit.
Ilminster Carnival, Ilminster, Somerset 3 October 2026 A traditional night carnival with illuminated carts and performers moving through the town centre. Part of the established South Somerset circuit, with a strong mix of local and visiting entries.
Budleigh Salterton Carnival, Budleigh Salterton, Devon 3 October 2026 A traditional coastal carnival with a strong community feel, featuring a colourful procession, stalls and family-friendly entertainment. The seafront setting adds to the atmosphere, making it a popular autumn highlight.
Port Isaac Shanty Weekend, Port Isaac, Cornwall 3 to 4 October 2026 A lively weekend of sea shanty singing and maritime music across venues in the village, with performances from visiting groups and local musicians. Events take place at multiple locations, including the village hall and pubs, creating a relaxed, community atmosphere in this historic fishing village.
Falmouth Oyster Festival, Cornwall 8 to 11 October 2026 A celebration of seafood marking the start of oyster season, with cooking demonstrations and live music.
Sidmouth Science Festival, Sidmouth, Devon 9 to 18 October 2026 Held across venues in Sidmouth, including Kennaway House and the Norman Lockyer Observatory, this ten-day festival explores science through talks, workshops and hands-on activities for all ages. It suits visitors seeking an engaging and educational experience, featuring a mix of expert speakers, family-friendly events, and interactive sessions designed to bring science to life.
Gillingham Carnival, Gillingham, Dorset 10 October 2026 A night-time carnival featuring decorated carts, performers and community entries, continuing the weekly run of Wessex events.
Chard Carnival, Chard, Somerset 10 October 2026 An evening procession showcasing large illuminated carts, music and community groups, continuing the weekly run of South Somerset carnival events.
Comic Con & Gaming Festival, Westpoint Exeter, Clyst St Mary, Devon 10 to 11 October 2026 One of the livelier South West events, this two-day festival brings together cosplay, gaming zones, comic artists, and film and TV guests, alongside immersive props and interactive displays. Expect exhibitors, photo opportunities and a wide mix of entertainment across the weekend, making it a family-friendly event with a strong pop culture and gaming focus.
Toy & Train Collectors Fair, Bath & West Showground, Shepton Mallet, Somerset 11 October 2026 A large collectors’ fair bringing together hundreds of stalls selling model trains, toys, vintage items and collectables, with everything from Hornby and Dinky to comics and memorabilia. One of the biggest events of its kind in the UK, it attracts enthusiasts from across the country and offers a wide range of items to browse in a single venue.
Wells Food Festival, Somerset 11 October 2026 A large food festival set around Wells Cathedral, showcasing regional produce.
14 October 2026 A historic annual street fair held across the centre of Tavistock, featuring hundreds of market stalls, traditional fairground rides, food traders and entertainment throughout the town. Dating back to the 12th century, it is one of Devon’s best-known traditional fairs and attracts large crowds each year, creating a lively atmosphere across Bedford Square, Plymouth Road and the surrounding streets.
Wincanton Carnival, Wincanton, Somerset 16 October 2026 An evening procession through the town centre with illuminated carts and music, forming part of the core Wessex Grand Prix schedule.
Ottery St Mary Carnival, Ottery St Mary, Devon 16 October 2026 A well-supported evening carnival with illuminated floats, walking entries and local groups, bringing a lively atmosphere to the town. It continues the East Devon circuit into autumn with a strong local turnout.
Castle Cary Carnival, Castle Cary, Somerset 17 October 2026 A traditional carnival parade with illuminated entries moving through the town, held on the same weekend as Wincanton as part of the circuit run.
The Big South West Wedding Fair, Bath & West Showground, Shepton Mallet, Somerset 17 to 18 October 2026 One of the largest South West events for wedding planning, bringing together more than 100 suppliers, including venues, photographers, florists and bridal specialists under one roof. Expect live entertainment, inspirational ideas and the chance to meet local experts, making it a well-established wedding fair near you for couples planning their day.
Trowbridge Carnival, Trowbridge, Wiltshire 18 October 2026 A town-centre procession featuring carnival carts, walking groups and music, drawing entries from across the wider Wessex circuit.
Mevagissey Shanty Festival, Mevagissey, Cornwall 16 to 18 October 2026 A traditional Cornish sea shanty festival bringing together dozens of groups performing across pubs, venues and harbour spaces in Mevagissey and nearby villages. Largely free to attend, it celebrates maritime music, community spirit and local culture, with performances running throughout the weekend.
North Devon Ska & Mod Weekend, Devon 16 to 18 October 2026 Held at Golden Coast Holiday Park near Woolacombe, this three-day music weekender celebrates ska, mod, soul and two-tone with a packed lineup of live bands and DJs. It suits fans of retro sounds and seaside escapes alike, with on-site accommodation, dancing into the night and a lively, adults-focused atmosphere by the North Devon coast.
Weston Beach Race, Weston-super-Mare 16 to 18 October 2026 A world-famous beach motocross event in Weston-super-Mare, where hundreds of riders race across a challenging sand course with huge dunes, drawing massive crowds and a high-energy festival atmosphere.
Taunton Carnival, Taunton, Somerset 17 October 2026 A large town-centre carnival with a long procession route, featuring detailed illuminated carts and a broad mix of entries. One of the bigger dates in the South Somerset Federation calendar.
23 to 25 October 2026 A multi-day food and drink festival held across Dartmouth’s waterfront, markets and public spaces, featuring chef demonstrations, tastings, workshops, talks and over 100 food and drink exhibitors from across the South West. One of Devon’s best-known food festivals, it attracts leading chefs, local producers and thousands of visitors each year, creating a lively atmosphere throughout the town and along the River Dart. Planning to stay? Find accommodation in and around Dartmouth before you travel.
Saturday 24 October 2026 A large-scale flea market at Newton Abbot Racecourse featuring indoor and outdoor stalls selling everything from antiques and furniture to records, books, tools and vintage collectables. Popular with bargain hunters and collectors alike, the event offers a relaxed atmosphere with regular traders and a changing selection of unusual finds.
Honiton Carnival, Honiton, Devon 24 October 2026 The final event in the East Devon Carnival circuit features a large illuminated procession through the town. Known for its strong finish to the season, it draws crowds to a lively, colourful evening event.
Warminster Carnival, Warminster, Wiltshire 31 October 2026 A later-season carnival with an illuminated evening procession through the town, bringing the Wessex Grand Prix circuit towards its conclusion.
31 October 2026 Folk group Fisherman’s Friends bring their mix of traditional sea shanties, folk songs and humour to Hall for Cornwall as part of their 2026 UK tour. Formed in Port Isaac on the North Cornwall coast, the group became nationally known through their chart success and the Fisherman’s Friends films inspired by their story.
What’s On in South West England in November 2026
What’s on in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset in November 2026? Discover fireworks events, festive markets, seasonal celebrations and late-autumn days out across South West England, including Bonfire Night, traditional carnivals such as Bridgwater Carnival, and unique events like the Ottery St Mary Tar Barrels.
Ottery St Mary Tar Barrels, Devon 5 November 2026 A distinctive and intense Bonfire Night tradition in Ottery St Mary, where flaming barrels are carried through the streets, attracting large crowds.
6 November 2026 A performance of sacred and choral music by Exeter-based vocal ensemble Dumnonii Consort at St Michael & All Angels, Mount Dinham. The programme includes works by Taverner, MacMillan, Victoria and Philip Moore, performed by professional singers associated with Exeter’s cathedral music scene.
Shepton Mallet Antiques, Vintage & Collectors Fair, Somerset 6 to 8 November 2026 Held at the Royal Bath & West Showground near Shepton Mallet, this large antiques fair features up to 600 stands across multiple halls, offering everything from furniture and decorative pieces to vintage clothing, collectables and restoration items.
6 to 9 November 2026 A three-night dance music weekender held at Butlin’s Minehead, curated by Fatboy Slim and featuring headline DJ sets alongside a wide lineup of electronic artists. It combines live performances with pool parties, daytime activities and themed entertainment, creating a full weekend of music and nightlife within the resort setting.
Charity Firework Display, Westpoint Exeter, Clyst St Mary, Devon 7 November 2026 One of the standout South West events for Bonfire Night, this large-scale charity fireworks display at Westpoint Exeter features a professionally choreographed show with gates open from 5:30 pm through the evening. Organised by Exeter Round Table, it typically includes fairground rides, food stalls and a lively atmosphere, with proceeds supporting local charities.
Bridport Literary Festival, Bridport, Dorset 7 to 14 November 2026 A well-established literary festival held across venues in Bridport, bringing together authors, speakers and audiences for a week of talks, discussions and events. Covering fiction, non-fiction, politics, history and culture, it offers a varied programme in an accessible and engaging setting in West Dorset.
Burnham-on-Sea Carnival, Burnham-on-Sea, Somerset 9 November 2026 Part of the famous Somerset carnival circuit, this evening procession brings large illuminated carts, performers and music through the town centre and seafront route. The carnival builds across the weekend, with carts arriving in advance and going on public display, alongside a seafront fireworks show ahead of the main parade.
Weston-super-Mare Carnival, Weston-super-Mare, Somerset 13 November 2026 A large illuminated procession along the seafront route, with detailed carnival carts, walking entries and live music drawing sizeable crowds. One of the biggest nights in the Somerset carnival calendar.
Cathedral Christmas Market, Exeter 13 November to 13 December 2026 Set on Cathedral Green in Exeter, beneath the illuminated Exeter Cathedral, this popular Christmas market features festive chalets, artisan gifts, and seasonal food and drink. It offers a classic West Country Christmas atmosphere, with local traders, mulled wine and a picturesque historic setting.
Shiiine On Weekender, Butlin’s Minehead, Somerset 13 to 15 November 2026 One of the most distinctive South West events, this three-day indoor music festival celebrates indie and dance from the late 80s and 90s, with live bands and DJs across multiple stages. Held entirely within the Butlin’s resort, it combines accommodation, entertainment and headline performances in one place, creating a lively, nostalgia-driven weekend with a strong festival atmosphere.
13 to 16 November 2026 A multi-day literary festival set in the small Exmoor town of Dulverton, bringing together authors, speakers and cultural events in an intimate countryside setting. Held across local venues in the heart of Exmoor, the programme combines talks, discussions, readings and community events celebrating books, writing, landscape and rural life.
Live at the Mile: 90s & 00s Weekend, Lady’s Mile Holiday Park, Dawlish, Devon 13 to 16 November 2026 A high-energy themed music weekend celebrating 90s and 00s hits, featuring live acts, DJs and a full programme of nostalgic entertainment across the holiday park. Designed as an immersive festival-style experience, it combines tribute performances, late-night parties and on-site facilities, with tickets and accommodation typically required for the full weekend stay.
Antiques Fair, Westpoint Exeter, Clyst St Mary, Devon 14 to 15 November 2026 A well-established South West events listing, this two-day antiques fair brings together specialist dealers offering a wide mix of antiques, vintage items and collectables in a large indoor setting. Expect hundreds of stands with everything from furniture and jewellery to smaller curios and decorative pieces, attracting collectors and browsers from across the region.
South West Homebuilding & Renovating Show, Bath & West Showground, Shepton Mallet, Somerset 14 to 15 November 2026 One of the key South West events for anyone planning a home project, bringing together expert advice, seminars and more than 100 exhibitors under one roof. A popular exhibition near you for self-build, renovation and home improvement ideas, with free tickets often available and a full programme of talks and demonstrations across the weekend.
North Petherton Carnival, North Petherton, Somerset 14 November 2026 A traditional illuminated procession through the village, featuring decorated carts, local groups and a strong link to the wider Somerset carnival circuit.
Illuminate the Night, Taunton, Somerset 14 November 2026 An evening of fireworks and light display at Taunton Racecourse, featuring a large-scale fireworks show, food stalls and a lively family-friendly atmosphere. Gates open in the late afternoon, with entertainment building towards the main display after dark, creating a classic Bonfire Night-style event.
Clovelly Herring Festival, Devon 15 November 2026 A traditional fishing heritage event celebrating herring, with food, demonstrations and music.
Shepton Mallet Carnival, Shepton Mallet, Somerset 18 November 2026 An evening parade through the town centre with illuminated carts, performers and music, forming part of the midweek Somerset circuit schedule.
18 to 19 November 2026 A festive two-day Christmas fair held at the Eden Project in Cornwall, featuring independent stalls, artisan gifts, food and drink producers, homeware, fashion and seasonal entertainment within the setting of the famous biomes. One of Cornwall’s best-known Christmas shopping events, it attracts visitors from across the South West while raising funds for community projects and local charities through the Cornwall Community Foundation.
Wells Carnival, Wells, Somerset 20 November 2026 A city-based carnival with a procession passing through the historic streets of Wells, combining large carts with smaller local entries.
Glastonbury Carnival, Glastonbury, Somerset 21 November 2026 A final weekend procession through the town, featuring illuminated carts, music and walking groups, closes this part of the Somerset carnival run.
Wells Soup, Wells, Somerset 21 November 2026 Held at Wells Cathedral, Wells Soup brings together the local community for an afternoon of fundraising, conversation and live charity pitches. Four local causes will present their ideas for a share of £700, with tickets available on the day for a minimum suggested donation of £7.
Saturday 21 November 2026 A late-season outdoor flea market at Newton Abbot Racecourse, bringing together traders from across Devon and the South West for a day of antiques, second-hand goods, vintage pieces and collectables. The event combines indoor and outdoor selling areas with on-site food and drink facilities, making it one of the area’s regular markets for browsing and bargain hunting.
21 November to 24 December 2026 A large festive Christmas market held across Lemon Quay and central Truro, featuring artisan gifts, local crafts, seasonal food and drink, entertainment and late-night shopping throughout the city. One of Cornwall’s best-known Christmas events, it attracts visitors from across the South West, creating a lively festive atmosphere with market cabins, music, street entertainment and independent traders across the city centre.
26 November to 13 December 2026 A large festive Christmas market is held across the historic streets and squares of Bath city centre, featuring hundreds of decorated chalets selling artisan gifts, crafts, food and seasonal drinks alongside entertainment, light displays and late-night shopping. One of the UK’s best-known Christmas markets, it attracts visitors from across Britain and beyond, creating a lively festive atmosphere around Bath Abbey, the Roman Baths and the city’s Georgian streets.
27 to 29 November 2026 A large festive weekend held across Newquay town centre, featuring Christmas markets, live music, seasonal entertainment, food stalls and the town’s Christmas lights switch-on, followed by fireworks. One of Cornwall’s best-known coastal Christmas events, it brings together festive shopping, family activities and seaside celebrations, creating a lively seasonal atmosphere across the town.
Christmas Shopping Fayre, Westpoint Exeter, Clyst St Mary, Devon 27 to 29 November 2026 One of the most popular South West events in the run-up to Christmas, this three-day indoor fair brings together hundreds of exhibitors offering gifts, crafts, decorations and festive food. Expect a wide mix of traders, free parking and a busy seasonal atmosphere, making it a well-established festive shopping event in Devon.
27 November to 30 December 2026 The multi award-winning Christmas Train of Lights returns to the Dartmouth Steam Railway for another festive season of illuminated steam train journeys between Paignton and Kingswear. Widely regarded as one of the South West’s most popular Christmas attractions, the experience combines thousands of lights, animated displays, festive scenes, music and onboard entertainment along the railway’s spectacular coastal route overlooking Torbay and the River Dart. Departing from Queen’s Park Station in Paignton, the event can only be fully experienced from aboard the train, with advance booking strongly recommended as many departures sell out well before Christmas.
28 November 2026 The Seaton Christmas Market opens in the town centre from 12.00 pm, with festive entertainment and the official Christmas lights switch-on beginning from 4.00 pm. Visitors can enjoy Father Christmas, family activities, carol singing, late-night shopping and an independent Christmas market.
Bay of Lights, Devon 28 November 2026 to 3 January 2027 Held across Torquay, Paignton and Brixham, this large winter festival transforms the English Riviera with illuminated trails, lantern parades, festive markets and light displays, centred around the seafront Illumination Trail in Torquay.
Christmas Lights Switch On, Somerton, Somerset 29 November 2026 An annual festive event held in Somerton town centre, bringing live music, entertainment and seasonal stalls to the market square. It marks the start of the Christmas period with a strong community feel and a mix of performances, food and festive activities.
What’s On in South West England in December 2026
What’s on in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset in December 2026? Discover Christmas markets, festive events, winter festivals and seasonal days out across South West England, with light displays, traditional celebrations and coastal Christmas events throughout the month.
Cinderella, Theatre Royal Plymouth, Devon 4 December 2026 to 3 January 2027 A large-scale Christmas pantomime bringing the classic Cinderella story to life with comedy, music, costumes and family-friendly entertainment. Running throughout the festive season, it is one of the South West’s most popular Christmas shows.
4 to 5 December 2026 A festive Christmas event held across the medieval village of Dunster, featuring candlelit streets, market stalls, late-night shopping, entertainment, music and seasonal food and drink throughout the village. One of Somerset’s best-known Christmas events, it attracts thousands of visitors each year, creating a distinctive festive atmosphere with traditional decorations, lantern processions and historic buildings illuminated by candlelight.
4 to 6 December 2026 A multi-day Christmas market held across the harbour town of Fowey, featuring festive market stalls, seasonal food and drink, live entertainment, late-night shopping and family attractions throughout the town. One of Cornwall’s best-known Christmas events, it attracts thousands of visitors each year, creating a lively festive atmosphere across the quayside, streets and indoor market venues with local traders, crafts and entertainment.
5 to 6 December 2026 A festive Christmas market held at Symondsbury Estate near Bridport, bringing together local makers, artisan food producers, craft stalls and seasonal entertainment in the Dorset countryside. Set around the estate’s Tithe Barn and Manor Yard, the event is expected to feature Christmas shopping, festive food and drink, workshops, music and family activities, continuing one of the area’s best-known Christmas market weekends near the Jurassic Coast.
Westpoint Equestrian Fair, Westpoint Exeter, Clyst St Mary, Devon 5 to 6 December 2026 One of the more specialist South West events, this two-day equestrian fair brings together trade stands, demonstrations and a wide range of products linked to horse riding and country life. Expect shopping, displays and a mix of exhibitors, making it a well-established event for riders, owners and anyone interested in equestrian culture.
Giant Flea Market, Bath & West Showground, Shepton Mallet, Somerset 6 December 2026 One of the most popular South West events, this large indoor and outdoor flea market features more than 200 stalls selling vintage furniture, clothing, collectables and retro items. A well-established market in Somerset, it runs throughout the day with a wide mix of traders and plenty to browse, making it a strong choice for a relaxed pre-Christmas day out.
Toy & Train Collectors Fair, Bath & West Showground, Shepton Mallet, Somerset 13 December 2026 One of the largest South West events for collectors, this indoor fair features more than 300 stalls selling model trains, toys, vintage items and memorabilia, from brands such as Hornby, Dinky and Matchbox. A popular event near you in Somerset, it runs from 10:30 am to 2:30 pm with free parking and a wide range of traders, making it a great pre-Christmas day out for enthusiasts and families alike.
Montol Festival, Penzance, Cornwall December 2026 (around the winter solstice) A midwinter celebration featuring music, masks and fire processions, reviving old Cornish traditions.
25 December (Friday) – Christmas Day
What’s On in South West England in January 2027
What’s on in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset in January 2027? Discover winter walks, seasonal events, coastal days out and quieter attractions across South West England, making it a great time for peaceful breaks after the festive season.
8 to 11 January 2027 A mod and ska themed adult music weekend held at Butlin’s Minehead, celebrating classic mod culture, live music and scooter scene entertainment across three days on the Somerset coast. Part of the Butlin’s Big Weekenders programme, the event features live bands, DJs, film screenings, Q&As and themed entertainment inspired by mod, ska and Northern soul culture, creating a nostalgic seaside festival atmosphere for fans of the scene.
22 to 25 January 2027 A live music weekend held at Lady’s Mile Holiday Park, celebrating classic soul and Motown music with tribute acts, live bands and themed entertainment across three days. The event features performances inspired by artists including Stevie Wonder, Diana Ross and Lionel Richie, creating a lively weekend of nostalgic live music and dance in a coastal Devon holiday park setting.
What’s On in South West England in February 2027
What’s on in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset in February 2027? Discover seasonal events, half-term activities, winter days out and early spring festivals across South West England.
What’s On in South West England in March 2027
What’s on in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset in March 2027? Discover early spring events, seasonal festivals, outdoor days out and coastal walks across South West England as the region moves out of winter.
What’s On in South West England in April 2027
What’s on in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset in April 2027? Discover spring festivals, Easter events, outdoor days out and coastal breaks across South West England as the season comes into full swing.
30 April to 1 May 2027 Hosted by Toby Buckland at Powderham Castle, Toby’s Garden Festival returns for two days of gardening inspiration, specialist plant nurseries, expert talks, garden displays, shopping, food and live entertainment. Set within the grounds of the historic castle near Exeter, the festival brings together leading horticultural speakers, growers and West Country exhibitors in a relaxed outdoor setting. Visitors can expect plant sales, demonstrations, family-friendly attractions and a strong focus on gardening, growing and the South West countryside. Early Bird tickets for 2027 are already on sale.
30 April to 2 May 2027 Teddy Rocks Festival returns to Charisworth Farm near Blandford Forum for a weekend of live music, camping, family entertainment and fundraising. Founded in memory of Ted Newton, the Dorset festival supports children’s cancer charities while bringing together a varied line-up of bands, performers, food vendors and activities across multiple stages. Tickets for 2027 are already on sale.
30 April to 3 May 2027 Abbey Hill Steam Rally returns to Yeovil Showground over the May Day Bank Holiday weekend, bringing together steam engines, vintage tractors, classic cars, motorcycles, military vehicles, fairground attractions, live entertainment, trade stands and family activities.
What’s On in South West England in May 2027
Looking for what’s on in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset in May 2027? Discover festivals, live music, food events, family days out and seasonal highlights near you across South West England this month.
1 to 3 May 2027(Dates tbc) Brixham Pirate Festival returns to the South Devon harbour over the Early May Bank Holiday weekend, transforming the town into one of the world’s largest pirate gatherings. Expect live music, sea shanties, pirate re-enactments, street entertainment, cannon displays, themed food and drink, family activities and thousands of costumed pirates filling the waterfront.
7 to 15 May 2027 The du Maurier Fowey Literary Festival returns to the Cornish harbour town for nine days of author talks, interviews, workshops, performances, discussions and cultural events inspired by the legacy of Daphne du Maurier. Held across venues including churches, halls and waterfront locations around Fowey, the festival attracts leading writers, broadcasters, historians and performers while celebrating Cornwall’s literary heritage and one of its most famous former residents.
8 May 2027 Helston Flora Day returns to the Cornish market town for one of Cornwall’s oldest and most distinctive traditional celebrations. Held each spring, the event sees the streets filled with flowers, greenery, music and the famous Furry Dance, as hundreds of dancers move through the town accompanied by the Helston Town Band. Visitors can also experience the historic Hal-an-Tow pageant, community celebrations and a unique atmosphere that transforms Helston for the day.
22 to 25 May 2027 The Sidmouth International Jazz & Blues Festival returns over the late May Bank Holiday weekend with four days of live jazz, blues, soul and funk performances in venues across the town. The festival combines ticketed headline concerts at Blackmore Gardens with free fringe performances, workshops and community events, attracting music lovers from across the UK.
27 to 29 May 2027 The Royal Bath & West Show returns to the Bath & West Showground near Shepton Mallet for three days, celebrating farming, food, countryside life and rural traditions. One of the largest agricultural shows in the South West, the event features livestock competitions, equestrian displays, agricultural machinery, food and drink producers, shopping, family entertainment, live demonstrations and hundreds of trade stands across the showground. Organised by the Royal Bath & West Society, the show has been a major part of the region’s agricultural calendar for generations
28 to 30 May 2027 Fisherman’s Friends Festival returns to Stithians Showground near Penryn for a Bank Holiday weekend celebrating live music, Cornwall’s cultural heritage and festival entertainment. Created by the internationally known Cornish sea shanty group Fisherman’s Friends alongside the team behind Beautiful Days, the family-friendly festival combines headline concerts, folk, roots and traditional music, camping, local food and drink, Cornish performers and community events.
28 to 30 May 2027 Bournemouth 7s Festival returns to Chapel Gate near Christchurch for its 20th anniversary edition, combining competitive sport, live music, camping and festival entertainment across the Spring Bank Holiday weekend. Known as one of the UK’s largest sport and music festivals, the event brings together rugby, netball, hockey, dodgeball, fitness competitions, DJs, live acts, themed arenas, street food, fairground attractions and thousands of participants from across the country.
28 to 30 May 2027 Devon Truck Show returns to Smeatharpe Airfield near Honiton for its 10th anniversary edition, bringing together hundreds of show trucks, monster truck displays, live music, arena entertainment, camping, trade stands, family attractions and festival-style evening events. One of the South West’s largest truck gatherings, the event attracts vehicles and exhibitors from across the UK and Europe, with weekend camping, stunt shows, funfair rides, food vendors and live entertainment throughout the Bank Holiday weekend.
What’s On in South West England in June 2027
What’s on in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset in June 2027? Discover summer festivals, outdoor events, live music and coastal days out across South West England, as the early summer season brings some of the region’s most popular events.
11 to 13 June 2027 Discovery Festival is expected to return to Central Park in Plymouth for a weekend of live music, food and drink vendors, VIP experiences and festival entertainment. Previous line-ups have featured major chart, rock and pop artists, helping establish the event as one of Plymouth’s most ambitious outdoor music festivals. Ticketmaster listings currently show the next Plymouth festival weekend running from 11 to 13 June 2027, although organisers have yet to confirm the event or announce line-up details.
The Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival returns from Friday 12 to Sunday 14 June 2026, celebrating maritime heritage with over eighty shanty-groups from around the UK, Europe, and further abroad. The festival is entirely free to attend, with performances taking place at multiple sites including quayside venues throughout Falmouth. Alongside the shanties, this edition again […]
Plymouth Central Park
Plymouth Central Park, Plymouth
Discovery Festival will no longer take place in 2026 and has been officially postponed until 11 to 13 June 2027. Festival organisers announced that, after exploring all available options with partners and stakeholders, they had made the difficult decision to move the event to 2027. The three-day festival is now scheduled to take place from […]
Join us for a relaxed community lunch held in the wonderful space of Wells Cathedral, where you can enjoy good food and support local causes. You will be served a bowl of freshly made soup and bread, prepared by Fresh & Good, while four local groups give short talks about their projects. After the presentations, […]
Abbotsbury Church Newton Abbot TQ12 2ND
Waverley Road, Newton Abbot, United Kingdom
+1 more
The Isle of Wight Biosphere Festival returns in 2026! Nine days of free or low-cost nature and community events across the Island, celebrating our unique UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, only one of seven in the UK. The incredible natural diversity is reflected in a wonderfully varied programme: wildlife, art, walks, talks, fashion, science and more. It’s […]
Dorchester Arts
The Corn Exchange, High East Street, Dorchester, Dorset
Mooch Market is back! With the newest and brightest of artists from the local area, come and indulge in a day full of creativity, delivered with its very own custom soundtrack played by the people at our open mic “The Jam”. Enjoy a tasteful selection of art and activities! If you fancy a mooch, bring […]
The Borgen Project, an international advocacy and lobbying organisation fighting to end global poverty, is hosting an information event at Exeter Library. George, a political affairs team member with The Borgen Project, and a student at the University of Exeter will be hosting the event – he is very keen to talk to people in […]
Lympsham Fete and Classic Car show Saturday 4th July 2026. 2-4.30pm Manor Garden Lympsham Entry: adults £2, children free Plenty of free parking A perfect summer afternoon for all the family. A chance to enjoy Lympsham’s glorious Manor Garden and admire a stunning collection of classic cars. Lots of much-loved fete attractions including grand raffle, […]
St Michael & All Angels Mount Dinham
St Michael & All Angels Mount Dinham, Dinham Road, Exeter
Performing at St Michael & All Angels as part of the highly-anticipated ‘Music on the Mount’ classical music series, the Elmore Quartet is an award-winning ensemble founded in 2017 at […]
The Wild Gardens Festival returns 16-19 July 2026 at Port Eliot Estate in Cornwall, bringing together music, wellness, and outdoor experiences in one immersive weekend. The event features a main […]
The Wild Gardens Festival returns 16-19 July 2026 at Port Eliot Estate in Cornwall, bringing together music, wellness, and outdoor experiences in one immersive weekend. The event features a main […]
The Wild Gardens Festival returns 16-19 July 2026 at Port Eliot Estate in Cornwall, bringing together music, wellness, and outdoor experiences in one immersive weekend. The event features a main […]
Exmouth
Sideshore, Queens Drive, Exmouth, United Kingdom
The Sideshore Salt Fest – Sponsored by Brillband Saturday 18th July & Sunday 19th July 2026 Dive into a weekend celebrating all things sea, surf, and saltwater at The Sideshore […]
Have you got a South West event you would like to share?
We are always looking to feature great events across Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset, from local festivals and markets to seasonal highlights and community days out.
If you are organising something and would like it included, feel free to get in touch with the key details. Dates, location, booking information, and a short description all help us ensure listings are accurate and useful for readers.
At This Is South West, we aim to keep this guide up to date and genuinely helpful for people planning days out in the region. Hearing directly from organisers makes a real difference.
What is included in this South West England events guide?
This guide brings together festivals, events and days out across Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset, including major festivals, local shows, food events, live music, family events and seasonal highlights throughout 2026.
Can I use this page to find what’s on in Devon and Cornwall this weekend?
Yes. This page includes a South West Events This Weekend section near the top, followed by monthly listings for Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset. It is designed to help you find what’s on in South West England this weekend, this month and throughout 2026.
Does this guide cover what’s on South West this weekend?
Yes. If you are searching for what’s on South West this weekend, this guide highlights selected weekend events across the region and links through to the wider monthly listings for more ideas.
Does this guide cover Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset?
Yes. The guide is focused on South West England and covers events across Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset.
How often is the South West England events calendar updated?
This South West England events guide is updated regularly as new dates are confirmed. We add events throughout the year to keep listings accurate and useful for planning days out, weekends away and longer trips.
Can I find South West England events in 2026?
Yes. The guide includes confirmed South West England events in 2026, including festivals, food events, live music, agricultural shows, local celebrations and seasonal days out.
Are all events confirmed before they are listed?
Most events are based on organiser or venue information, but details can still change. It is always worth checking with organisers before you travel.
Can I browse events by month?
Yes. The page includes monthly sections to help you explore South West events by month, date, location and event type.
Can I find major festivals as well as smaller local events?
Yes. This guide includes major festivals and standout events, alongside smaller local events, markets, performances and seasonal days out across Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset.
Is this page useful for planning a trip to South West England?
Yes. It is designed to help with advance planning, whether you are organising a short break, a weekend away or a day out in South West England.
Can event organisers submit an event to this calendar?
Yes. Event organisers can submit events to be considered for inclusion in our South West England what’s on calendar.
Why should I check with organisers before travelling?
Event details can change after publication, including dates, times, locations or ticket arrangements, so it is always recommended to check with organisers before setting off.
South West Event Venues
Exmouth Pavillion
Other Helpful Links
Booking.com – for most accommodation needs. Look out for options that include free cancellation.
Easy Tide – Free UK tidal prediction service, providing tidal data and tide times for the current day and 6 days into the future.
Traveline SW – Comprehensive public transport information from A to B by bus, coach, train, ferry in South West England and Great Britain.
TripAdvisor – for reviews of… pretty much everything. Our go-to before booking anything.
Vrbo – Great for self-catering and vacation holiday home rentals.
Over to you … have you recently travelled to South West England? What worked for you? What advice would you give to others? Please leave your comments below or join in the discussion in our Facebook Group.
New to South West England or returning after a while? Start with our ‘Travel Basics’ – quick guides packed with tips to help you plan your trip.
