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 & 2026–2027 Events
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 major events throughout 2026 and 2027.
Updated regularly with more than 180 South West England events, including what’s on this weekend, what’s on this month and events near you.
Looking for what’s on in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset, Dorset or Bristol this weekend? These are some of the best confirmed events taking place across South West England from Friday 14 to Sunday 16 August 2026, including music festivals, literary events, steam rallies, agricultural shows, carnivals and family days out.
Updated weekly with the latest confirmed events across South West England.
Beer Regatta, Beer, Devon – This long-running seaside celebration concludes on Friday, with traditional boat races, games, live entertainment and family activities around Beer village and seafront.
Falmouth Week, Cornwall – Cornwall’s major sailing and shoreside festival continues throughout the weekend, with regatta racing, markets, family activities and live entertainment. Friday’s programme includes Peter Andre, The Bohemians and harbour fireworks, subject to suitable conditions.
Torbay Literary Festival, Paignton and Torquay, Devon – The festival continues through the weekend with author talks, discussions, workshops, performances and free events at the Palace Theatre in Paignton, followed by an end-of-festival celebration in Torquay.
Minelab 500 Metal Detecting Weekender, Somerset – A three-day gathering for metal-detecting enthusiasts, combining access to farmland with camping, traders, food, live music and a festival-style community atmosphere.
West of England Steam Engine Society Rally, Stithians, Cornwall – Around 70 full-size steam engines join vintage vehicles, tractors, working machinery, craft displays, trailer rides, live music and children’s entertainment at Stithians Showground from Friday to Sunday.
Jurassic Fields Festival, Bridport, Dorset – A three-day music festival featuring live bands, DJs, tribute performances, local artists, wellbeing activities and family entertainment across several stages near Bridport.
Lupton House Music Festival, Churston Ferrers near Brixham, Devon – Saturday’s outdoor festival features tribute performances celebrating Bon Jovi, Robbie Williams, Tina Turner and U2, alongside street food and bars in the grounds of Lupton House.
Newquay Sessions: Sunset Sessions, Newquay, Cornwall – A free Saturday music event on the Killacourt featuring DJ sets, live performances and sunset views across Towan Beach.
Mamma Mia! ExtrABBAganza, Powderham Castle, Devon – An outdoor screening of Mamma Mia! on Saturday, accompanied by an ABBA disco, singalong entertainment, street food and bars in the grounds of Powderham Castle.
Newton Summer Sounds, Newton Abbot Racecourse, Devon – A one-day outdoor music festival on Saturday featuring tribute acts celebrating Queen, ABBA, Oasis and Coldplay, with street food, bars and a full afternoon and evening of live entertainment.
Bude Carnival, Cornwall – This traditional Saturday carnival features decorated floats, walking groups, carnival royalty and vintage vehicles, with daytime activities and an evening procession through Bude.
Beer Heights Light Railway Gala, Pecorama, Beer, Devon – A special weekend at Pecorama featuring visiting locomotives, extended running and a focus on steam operations on the Beer Heights Light Railway. Advance booking is required.
Yesterday’s Farming, Drayton, Somerset – More than 800 heritage exhibits gather for this two-day rural show, including vintage tractors, steam engines, heavy horses, classic vehicles and working agricultural machinery.
FamFest Live Plymouth, Central Park – A two-day family festival combining live music and tribute performances with interactive entertainment, children’s zones, inflatables, workshops, games, food stalls and fairground attractions.
Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week, Dorset – Nine days of family activities, competitions, displays, live entertainment and maritime events begin on Saturday, raising money for the RNLI. The Red Arrows display previously planned for Sunday has been cancelled.
Proms in the Park, Tiverton, Devon – A free family afternoon at Westexe Recreation Ground on Sunday, featuring Tiverton Town Band, Punch and Judy shows, children’s soft play and community stalls.
Mid-Somerset Show, Shepton Mallet – This major free-entry agricultural show takes place on Sunday, with livestock, equine events, rural crafts, local produce, classic vehicles and main-ring entertainment. Parking charges apply.
Bridport Carnival Week, Dorset – A week of community competitions, quizzes, games and entertainment begins on Sunday, ahead of the main carnival procession and West Bay celebrations the following weekend.
Please note: Events, fireworks, outdoor performances and other attractions can occasionally be postponed, cancelled or amended because of weather, operational requirements or other unforeseen circumstances. Please check the organisers’ latest information before travelling.
Planning to attend one of these events? Accommodation and transport can be in high demand during major festivals, school holidays and summer weekends, so it is worth making arrangements early.
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 August 2026
Looking for what’s on in South West England in August 2026? This month brings major music festivals, agricultural shows, seaside regattas, food festivals, air displays, outdoor performances and family-friendly days out across the region.
Our chronological guide covers what’s on in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset throughout August, including events over the Bank Holiday weekend. From coastal celebrations and country shows to live music and community festivals, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the peak summer holiday season in South West England.
Find events by area
Planning to visit an August event?
Popular festivals and events in South West England can place considerable demand on accommodation and transport. Compare places to stay, event tickets and travel options before you visit.
8 to 14 August 2026 Held throughout the village and along the seafront in Beer, Devon, this long-running regatta week combines traditional boat races with community events and entertainment. Beer Regatta is a popular choice for anyone looking for what’s on in Devon during the summer, with races, games, live entertainment, fireworks and family activities creating a classic seaside atmosphere throughout the week.
7 to 16 August 2026 One of Cornwall’s biggest summer celebrations, combining a major sailing regatta with live music, markets, family activities and entertainment throughout Falmouth. Highlights include the Pink Wig Mermaid March, Falmouth Carnival, daily racing, an air display and harbour fireworks. Many activities are free, although tickets are required for selected evening performances. Falmouth becomes particularly busy during the festival, so visitors should use public transport where possible and check the official programme before travelling.
10 to 16 August 2026 A multi-day literary festival held at the Palace Theatre in Paignton, Devon, bringing together authors, speakers and performers for talks, discussions and live events. The programme usually includes author sessions, book signings, panel discussions and a mixture of free and ticketed events. It is a welcoming celebration of books and storytelling for visitors looking for what’s on in Devon and the English Riviera.
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, Cornwall, this large traditional steam rally features around 70 full-size steam engines, vintage vehicles, working machinery, craft displays and live entertainment. Family activities, food stalls and demonstrations complete a busy three-day celebration of steam power and transport heritage.
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.
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. Popular with owners and enthusiasts alike, with a relaxed festival atmosphere, on-site camping and a strong community feel.
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.
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 special two-day event combining narrow-gauge steam with unlimited train rides, mini golf, landscaped gardens and the model railway exhibition. Sunday also includes an illustrated talk about Reverend Wilbert Awdry.
15 to 16 August 2026 One of Somerset’s best-loved heritage farming events, Yesterday’s Farming celebrates traditional rural life with more than 800 exhibits, including vintage tractors, steam engines, heavy horses, classic commercial vehicles and working agricultural machinery. Visitors can also enjoy ploughing, harvesting and haymaking demonstrations, cider-making, a large arts-and-crafts marquee, family entertainment, trade stands and a traditional countryside atmosphere throughout the two-day show.
FamFest Live Plymouth, Central Park, Plymouth 15 to 16 August 2026 A family festival designed particularly for younger children, running from midday to 6 pm on Saturday and Sunday. The programme includes character singalongs, interactive shows, dance and movement sessions, creative workshops, discovery activities, inflatables, soft play and funfair rides. Additional charges apply to some attractions.
15 to 23 August 2026 A week-long seaside festival held around Lyme Regis harbour and seafront in Dorset, raising funds for the RNLI and celebrating the work of the town’s volunteer lifeboat crew. The programme usually includes family activities, displays, competitions, live entertainment and maritime events, with different attractions taking place throughout the week. Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week is a popular community celebration and a good choice for visitors looking for what’s on in Dorset during the summer holidays. Donations and proceeds from many activities help support the RNLI’s lifesaving work.
Announced on 08 August 2026, the Red Arrows display at Lyme Regis has been cancelled after poor weather in north-eastern Canada delayed the team’s return from its North American tour. Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week will continue from 15 to 23 August, including two privately owned Spitfires at 6 pm on 19 August and planned BBMF flypasts on 21 and 22 August. Aircraft and timings for the BBMF flypasts have not yet been announced. Sidmouth Regatta Airshowremains planned for 28 August, with the Red Arrows currently scheduled to appear.
16 August 2026 A free family afternoon at Westexe Recreation Ground featuring live music from Tiverton Town Band. Running from 2 pm to 5 pm, the community event also includes traditional Punch and Judy shows, children’s soft play and stalls from local organisations. Visitors are encouraged to bring something to sit on and enjoy a relaxed summer concert in the park.
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 in farming, food, and the arts.
16 to 23 August 2026 A week of community events including quizzes, bingo, darts, golf and traditional fairground attractions. The main carnival procession takes place on Saturday 22 August, leaving Foundry Lea at 7 pm, followed by presentations and dancing in Bucky Doo Square. On Sunday, celebrations move to West Bay for crabbing, food stalls, live entertainment, a torchlight procession at 9 pm and fireworks after 10 pm, weather permitting.
19 August 2026 As part of Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week 2026, two Supermarine Spitfires from Dunkeswell Aerodrome are expected to perform a spectacular evening air display over Marine Parade at 6 pm. One of the aircraft, RR232 City of Exeter, was hand-built over 13 years by Devon businessman Martin Phillips, making this a unique highlight of the town’s annual RNLI fundraising celebrations.
19 to 22 August 2026 Held at Fernhill Farm near Compton Martin, ArcTanGent is a four-day camping festival dedicated to experimental rock, math rock, post-rock and other alternative music. The carefully curated line-up, multiple stages and distinctive atmosphere attract music fans from across the UK and overseas. Weekend tickets include camping, with food, bars, campervan pitches, VIP upgrades and glamping options also available. The festival site is cashless, and visitors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
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 at Purbeck Valley Farm near Corfe Castle, Dorset, within easy reach of the Jurassic Coast. Performers from the folk, acoustic and world music scenes appear across several stages, accompanied by workshops, craft areas, food stalls and activities for different ages. The beautiful Purbeck countryside and relaxed atmosphere make it a distinctive choice for music lovers looking for what’s on in Dorset.
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.
21 August 2026 Held on the lawns below Dunster Castle in West Somerset, Dunster Show is a traditional one-day agricultural show close to Exmoor National Park. The programme brings together livestock and horse classes, countryside displays, local food, rural crafts, trade stands and family entertainment. Its impressive setting, with views towards the castle and surrounding hills, makes it one of the most scenic agricultural shows in South West England and an enjoyable day out for visitors exploring Exmoor and the Somerset coast.
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. Many festivalgoers camp on site, while others stay in Honiton, Ottery St Mary or Exeter for the weekend.
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 vibrant atmosphere along the English Riviera with racing, harbour activity and waterfront viewing points throughout the regatta weekend.
22 August 2026 Meet the Plymouth Lifeboat Station crew and learn more about the RNLI through sea-rescue demonstrations, family activities, free children’s crafts and information stands. Visitors can explore the lifeboats in the marina between 10 am and 12.45 pm and from 1.45 pm to 3 pm, with last entry at 2.30 pm. The event runs from 10 am to 3 pm and is free to attend, although donations are welcomed.
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, a beach party atmosphere, and sunset coastal views, with live DJ sets and dance music celebrations at 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 August 2026 More than 60 food, drink and craft traders fill Cornhill, the High Street and Angel Place in Bridgwater town centre. Visitors can browse locally produced food, handmade treats, street food, drinks and artisan crafts, accompanied by live entertainment and family activities. The festival runs from 9.30 am to 3 pm, and admission is free.
22 to 31 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.
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. Many visitors stay in Dartmouth or nearby Kingswear to enjoy the full regatta programme across several days.
27 August 2026 Held at West Bay Showground near Bridport, Dorset, this major agricultural show celebrates farming, food and rural life through livestock competitions, equestrian events, horticultural displays and more than 400 trade stands. One of Dorset’s leading countryside events, it combines traditional agriculture, local produce, rural crafts, and family entertainment. The varied programme makes it an enjoyable full day out for visitors looking for what’s on in Dorset and the wider Jurassic Coast area.
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.
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, 5 pm to 9 pm 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.
28 to 29 August 2026 A two-evening music festival at The Big Sheep in North Devon, running from 4 pm to 10 pm each day. Friday brings country music from Morgan Wallen Tribute UK, Made in Tennessee and Matt Hodges, while Saturday features Chris Moyles’ 90s Hangover, N-Trance and guest DJs. Food, bars, line dancing and a rodeo bull add to the festival atmosphere. Camping is available nearby at Skern Adventure, making this a lively choice for visitors looking for what’s on in Devon over the August Bank Holiday weekend.
28 to 29 August 2026 Held at Torbay Showground in Paignton, Devon, Riviera Tribute Festival brings together leading UK tribute acts for two days of familiar hits and live music. Street food, festival bars, fairground attractions and entertainment for all ages create a lively summer atmosphere on the English Riviera. It is a strong choice for music fans looking for what’s on in Devon over the August Bank Holiday weekend.
28 to 30 August 2026 One of the biggest South West events for motors and family entertainment, Truckfest South West features 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.
28 to 31 August 2026 Sidmouth Regatta takes place over the August Bank Holiday weekend in Sidmouth, bringing sailing races, beach events and family activities to the East Devon coast. The weekend opens with the Sidmouth Regatta Airshow on Friday 28 August 2026, with the RAF Red Arrows currently scheduled as the headline display. Seafront fireworks and traditional regatta events continue across the weekend, making this one of the leading late summer events in South West England. All flying remains subject to weather, aircraft availability and operational requirements.
28 to 31 August 2026 A late summer folk festival bringing live music, singing and dancing to Lyme Regis over the August Bank Holiday weekend. Free performances along Marine Parade include folk music, shanty singing, storytelling and ceilidh dancing, while the Marine Theatre hosts ticketed concerts featuring leading folk musicians. Events take place at venues around the town, creating a lively atmosphere beside the Jurassic Coast. Accommodation in Lyme Regis can become limited during the festival, so visitors planning an overnight stay should book early.
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.
Saturday 29 August 2026, 8pm Secret Seven bring an evening of live music to Quantock Brewery’s taproom in Bishops Lydeard, near Taunton. Enjoy the band alongside locally brewed beers at this established Somerset brewery.
Venue: Quantock Brewery, Westridge Way, Broadgauge Business Park, Bishops Lydeard, Taunton, Somerset, TA4 3RU.
29 August 2026 A new automotive and music festival celebrating 60 years of karting at Dunkeswell Raceway. Running from midday until 11 pm, RevsFest combines a car showcase, live karting venue, racing simulators, laser tag and live music headlined by DJ Paul Gannon. Food vendors, licensed bars and optional camping are also available. Some activities cost extra and advance booking is recommended. The festival welcomes families, motorsport enthusiasts and visitors looking for what’s on in Devon over the August Bank Holiday weekend.
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.
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.
29 to 30 August 2026 A large countryside fair celebrating oak, timber, woodland, conservation and rural Dorset. Held from 10 am to 5 pm each day, the Oak Fair brings more than 200 exhibitors to the Stock Gaylard Estate, with woodcraft, handmade products, countryside demonstrations and an action-packed arena programme. Food, drink and family activities add to the atmosphere. Dogs are welcome on leads, although they cannot enter the children’s area. There is no event camping, but hotels, bed-and-breakfasts, and campsites are available locally.
30 August 2026 First held in 1961, the Cowes Torquay Cowes Powerboat Race is one of the world’s longest-running offshore powerboat races. International teams race around 210 miles along the south coast from Cowes to Torquay, Devon, where the boats enter the harbour for refuelling and preparations before returning to the Isle of Wight. Speeds can exceed 100 mph, creating an impressive spectacle around Tor Bay and Torquay Harbour. The 2026 race takes place on Sunday 30 August as part of the Cowes Powerboat Festival.
30 August 2026 A family arts and community festival celebrating its fifth anniversary at Ham Hill Country Park near Stoke sub Hamdon. Activities begin at 10 am around the visitor centre, with creative workshops, circus skills, live music, outdoor performances and a procession through the country park. The headline production, On the Shoulders by Pirates of the Carabina, combines aerial theatre, circus, dance, puppetry and live music. Local food and drink traders complete a relaxed countryside event for visitors looking for what’s on in Somerset. Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome.
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, along with food and drink stalls, face painting, and a light-hearted dog show in the abbey gardens.
30 to 31 August 2026 Held at Smeatharpe Airfield near Upottery and Honiton, Devon, Honiton Hill Rally is a long-running August Bank Holiday celebration of rural and mechanical heritage. The extensive displays include vintage tractors, steam engines, classic vehicles, military exhibits and working machinery, accompanied by tractor pulling, lawn mower racing, craft stalls and a traditional fairground. With demonstrations and attractions spread across the showground, it is a popular family day out for visitors looking for what’s on in Devon.
31 August 2026 A free family music festival supporting young musicians and DJs from across the local area. Celebrating its 16th anniversary in 2026, Anonymous Festival runs from 11 am to 5 pm in Dorchester’s Borough Gardens. Live performances are accompanied by creative workshops, arts and crafts, inflatables, bungee trampolines and activities for children. Food and refreshments are available throughout the day, making it an accessible Bank Holiday event for families looking for what’s on in Dorset.
31 August 2026 The final display in Weymouth’s programme of Monday evening summer fireworks takes place at 9.30 pm over the seafront. Visitors gather along Weymouth Beach and the Esplanade to watch the display above the bay, creating a lively conclusion to the August Bank Holiday weekend. The event is organised by Weymouth Town Council and is one of five scheduled summer displays during 2026. Arrive early if travelling by car, as the town centre and seafront are likely to be busy. Displays remain subject to weather and operational conditions.
Looking for what’s on in South West England in September 2026? The month brings food festivals, agricultural shows, live music, heritage events and family friendly days out across the region as summer gives way to early autumn.
Our chronological guide covers what’s on in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset throughout September, including coastal celebrations, cultural events, local festivals and countryside attractions. With the summer holiday crowds beginning to ease, it is an excellent time to explore events across South West England.
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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 event 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.
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 up to 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 10th 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 outing 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.
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. Immortalised in the folk song Widecombe Fair and its famous character Uncle Tom Cobley, it is one of Devon’s most distinctive annual events. Blending agricultural heritage with a lively village atmosphere, it 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. Popular with 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.
12 to 13 September 2026 A new weekend celebration of nature, art and sustainability at historic Cockington Court. Saturday features the Finders Market, showcasing artisan makers, ethical businesses, upcyclers, local food and creative workshops, while Sunday offers guided foraging walks through the Cockington estate with experienced foraging experts. The event combines shopping, outdoor experiences and sustainable living in one of the English Riviera’s most picturesque settings.
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.
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. Ideal for 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.
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.
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.
12 to 26 September 2026 A two-week celebration of music and the arts held at venues throughout St Ives. The varied programme includes live music, exhibitions, open studios, films, talks, poetry, comedy, guided walks, workshops and free street entertainment. A highlight of what’s on in Cornwall during September, the festival attracts visitors from across the region, making early accommodation booking advisable for anyone planning an overnight stay.
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. Best for 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.
12 to 13 September 2026 A brand new aviation festival celebrating the “Age of Flight”, the Hampshire Air Festival combines spectacular flying displays with heritage aircraft, warbirds, modern jets and family entertainment across two days at Thruxton Aerodrome. Saturday also features an evening extravaganza of pyrotechnic aerial displays, illuminated drone formations, a light show and a spectacular fireworks finale, alongside live music, military exhibits, classic vehicles and interactive attractions on the ground.
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 waterfront 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.
23 to 27 September 2026 Set on East Devon’s Jurassic Coast, the Budleigh Salterton Literary Festival brings together bestselling authors, historians, broadcasters, journalists and public figures for five days of thought-provoking talks, panel discussions and book signings. Held across venues in the town, the festival celebrates books, writing and ideas, with a varied programme covering history, politics, science, biography, fiction and current affairs, alongside family events and creative workshops.
23 to 27 September 2026 One of Cornwall’s oldest and largest traditional fairs returns to Summercourt with five days of fairground rides and family entertainment. The historic event dates back almost 800 years and remains a distinctive highlight of what’s on in Cornwall during September. The main street fair takes place on Friday 25 September, bringing market traders and additional attractions to the village from 10 am until late.
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.
25 to 27 September 2026 The Wells Jazz and Blues Festival is a three-day, not-for-profit annual festival held on the last weekend of September. It brings a wealth of jazz and blues culture and music to a range of venues in the heart of the Wells community and surrounding areas.
All performances are free for audiences and include daytime and evening events in cafes, hotels and pubs. A range of performances suitable for all ages.
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 family atmosphere with rides, entertainment, and long-standing local traditions in the town centre.
Looking for what’s on in South West England in October 2026? The month brings food festivals, harvest celebrations, live entertainment, cultural events and autumn days out across the region.
Our chronological guide covers what’s on in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset throughout October, including Halloween attractions, October half-term activities, local festivals and family-friendly events. With changing colours and quieter destinations, October is an appealing time to explore South West England.
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Planning to visit an October event?
Festivals and events in South West England can increase demand for accommodation and transport, particularly during the October half term. Compare places to stay, event tickets and travel options before you visit.
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 unique 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.
3 October 2026 Exeter Opera Group presents a semi-staged performance of Camille Saint-Saëns’ Samson et Dalila at Colyton Town Hall. Performed in the original French with piano accompaniment and English narration, the opera tells a powerful story of love, betrayal, faith and revenge. Tenor Robert Felstead appears as Samson, with mezzo-soprano Iryna Ilnytska as Dalila. The score includes Dalila’s celebrated aria Mon cœur s’ouvre à ta voix and some of the most dramatic music in the French operatic repertoire. The performance runs from 7.30 pm to approximately 10.30 pm. Tickets cost £15, and advance booking is recommended.
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.
8 to 11 October 2026 One of Cornwall’s best-known food festivals, celebrating the start of the traditional oyster dredging season and the native Fal oyster. The four-day programme features cookery demonstrations from leading Cornish chefs, fresh seafood, local produce, live music and an arts and crafts market. Daytime admission is free, while selected evening entertainment requires tickets.
China Crisis bring their Warped 2026 Tour to Bridgwater, celebrating more than four decades of inventive British pop. Gary Daly and Eddie Lundon will combine classic songs, including Wishful Thinking, African and White, and Arizona Sky, with newer material from recent albums. Doors open at 6.30 pm, the performance begins at 7.30 pm, and tickets cost £30.
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. A good choice for 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 throughout the weekend, making it a family-friendly event with a strong focus on pop culture and gaming.
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 under one roof.
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.
16 October 2026 A special fundraising concert presented by Military Wives Choirs Plymouth in support of St Katherine’s. Song of Hope takes place at The Minster Church of St Andrew in Plymouth on Friday 16 October 2026, bringing together the choir and guest performers for an uplifting evening of live music.
The programme promises powerful voices, moving songs and a memorable atmosphere within one of Plymouth’s most historic churches. Proceeds will support St Katherine’s, making this an opportunity to enjoy a special choral performance while contributing to a valued local cause.
Tickets cost £10, and booking is recommended through WeGotTickets.
Travelling from outside the city? Find hotels and places to stay in Plymouth and combine the concert with a weekend exploring Plymouth Hoe, the Barbican and Sutton Harbour.
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.
16 October 2026 Bridgwater indie band Rosary Drive return to their hometown for their final headline show of the year. The concert begins at 8 pm, with doors opening at 7.30 pm and supporting artists to be announced. Under 18s are welcome, although an adult must accompany anyone under 14. Standard tickets cost £10.50, while a £31 bundle includes admission, a CD and a T-shirt. Booking is recommended.
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.
17 October 2026 Formed in 1999, Louis and the Iguanas bring their energetic blend of ska, funk, soul and reggae to Bridgwater Arts Centre. Expect an upbeat evening driven by a punchy rhythm section, strong vocal harmonies and infectious dance rhythms. The performance begins at 7.30 pm. Tickets cost £16 in advance or £18 on the door, subject to availability. Visitors travelling from farther afield can find hotels and accommodation in Bridgwater. Booking is recommended.
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. Popular with 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.
Poster for The Unravelling Wilburys at Bridgwater Arts Centre on Friday 23 October 2026, featuring the five musicians performing with guitars beneath the colourful band logo.
23 October 2026 The Unravelling Wilburys combine accomplished musicianship, comedy and the music of the Travelling Wilburys. The show features favourites including Handle with Care, End of the Line and The Devil’s Been Busy, alongside songs associated with George Harrison, Roy Orbison, Tom Petty, Bob Dylan and Jeff Lynne. Expect classics such as While My Guitar Gently Weeps, Only the Lonely and Mr Blue Sky. The performance begins at 7.30 pm, and tickets cost £20. Booking is recommended.
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.
31 October 2026 Happy Mondays and Black Grape frontman Shaun Ryder brings his new spoken word tour to Bridgwater Arts Centre. Supporting his book Happy Mondays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, the show promises extraordinary stories, rock-and-roll excess, and improbable truths from the height of the Madchester era and beyond. The evening begins at 7.30 pm. Standard tickets cost £30, premium seats with a goody bag cost £45, and the £80 package includes front-row seating, a goody bag, a photograph, an autograph, and a pre-show meet-and-greet.
Looking for what’s on in South West England in November 2026? The month brings Bonfire Night displays, illuminated carnivals, festive markets, seasonal celebrations, and late-autumn days out across the region.
Our chronological guide covers what’s on in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset throughout November, including Bridgwater Carnival, the Ottery St Mary Tar Barrels, Christmas light switch-ons and family-friendly events. With dramatic traditions and the festive season beginning, November offers some of South West England’s most unusual annual celebrations.
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Planning to visit a November event?
November brings firework displays, illuminated carnivals, bonfire celebrations and seasonal events to South West England. Popular dates can increase demand for accommodation and transport, so consider planning your journey and stay in advance.
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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.
7 November 2026 One of the largest illuminated carnival processions in Europe, the Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival fills the streets with spectacular floats, marching bands, dancers, and carnival clubs, stretching more than a mile through the town centre. The evening concludes with the famous Squibbing display, when around 150 giant hand-held fireworks are ignited simultaneously along the High Street, creating a breathtaking spectacle found nowhere else in the world. If you’re planning to watch the carnival, consider booking accommodation early. Hotels in Bridgwater and nearby Taunton are popular on carnival weekend.
7 November 2026 Newton Abbot Firework Night returns to Newton Abbot Rugby Club for an evening of family entertainment, live music and one of the area’s award-winning fireworks displays. Gates open at 4.30 pm, with children’s entertainment, food and drink stalls and live performances creating a festive atmosphere before the fireworks light up the night sky.
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.
8 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.
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 throughout 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 November 2026 Minehead welcomes the festive season with its Christmas lights celebrations and an Eat & Drink Arts Festival along The Avenue. Running from 3.30 pm to 9 pm, the event brings together food, drink, arts and craft stalls in the town centre. A seasonal highlight of what’s on in Somerset, it offers visitors an opportunity to enjoy festive shopping, local produce and the atmosphere surrounding Minehead’s Christmas lights.
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 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.
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.
29 November 2026 A brand new festive celebration arrives on Bideford Quay as the town officially launches the Christmas season with its 2026 Christmas Lights Switch On. Expect festive entertainment, live music, seasonal food and drink, family activities, Christmas market stalls and the magical moment when the town’s Christmas lights are illuminated, creating a sparkling start to the festive season in North Devon.
Looking for what’s on in South West England in December 2026? The month brings Christmas markets, illuminated trails, festive performances, winter festivals and seasonal days out across the region.
Our chronological guide covers what’s on in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset throughout December, including Christmas light displays, pantomimes, traditional celebrations and family-friendly events. From atmospheric harbour festivities to decorated historic houses, December is a magical time to enjoy Christmas events across South West England.
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Planning a Christmas event or festive break?
December brings Christmas markets, illuminated trails, pantomimes, festive concerts and seasonal celebrations to South West England. Tickets, accommodation and transport can become limited around popular events, weekends and the Christmas holidays, so booking ahead is recommended.
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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 6 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 5 December 2026 Set within the historic surroundings of Hestercombe House and Gardens near Taunton, the Hestercombe Christmas Market brings together around 60 carefully selected independent makers, artists and food producers from Somerset and the South West. Visitors can browse handmade gifts, artisan food, homewares and festive treats while enjoying the beautifully decorated house and gardens, making it one of Somerset’s most atmospheric Christmas shopping events.
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 December 2026 The UK tribute production celebrates the music of Richard and Karen Carpenter, featuring vocalist Maggie Nestor and eight accomplished musicians. The show recreates the Carpenters’ distinctive harmonies and arrangements, with favourites including Close to You, We’ve Only Just Begun, Top of the World, Rainy Days and Mondays, Goodbye to Love, Please Mr Postman and Only Yesterday. Doors open at 6.30 pm and the performance begins at 7.30 pm. Tickets cost £23, and advance booking is recommended.
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.
A festive screening of the classic 1951 film Scrooge, starring Alastair Sim, accompanied by a newly orchestrated live score performed by the three-piece FB Pocket Orchestra. The ensemble combines music and atmospheric sound effects with the film, bringing Charles Dickens’ Christmas story to life for families, couples and groups of friends
Doors open at 6.30 pm, the performance begins at 7.30 pm, and tickets cost £18.
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 21 December 2026 A midwinter celebration featuring music, masks and fire processions, reviving old Cornish traditions.
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 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 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 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.
23 to 25 April 2027 A three-day music weekend celebrating ska and mod culture at Tencreek Holiday Park near Looe. Expect live bands, tribute acts, and DJs playing ska, 2-Tone, mod, Northern Soul, and Britpop favourites. Weekend tickets are available, while caravan, touring and camping packages allow visitors to stay on site throughout the event.
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.
30 April to 2 May 2027 One of the Isles of Scilly’s largest annual events, bringing pilot gig crews from Britain and overseas together for three days of competitive rowing. Racing takes place across the waters around St Mary’s, beginning with veteran events on Friday before the main women’s and open competitions continue through Saturday and Sunday. The championships create a lively atmosphere around Hugh Town and the harbour, with boats, crews and spectators gathering across the islands. Travel and accommodation are often booked well in advance, so visitors planning to attend should make arrangements early.
Planning a trip to the Isles of Scilly?
Travel and accommodation for the World Pilot Gig Championships are often booked well in advance. Arrange your journey and somewhere to stay as early as possible.
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 May 2027 A traditional village celebration held in Lustleigh on Dartmoor, featuring a procession, maypole dancing and the crowning of the May Queen in the Town Orchard. The custom was revived by local resident Cecil Torr in 1905 and remains one of Devon’s best-known May Day traditions. The programme typically includes Morris dancing, live music, games, stalls and Devon cream teas, creating a colourful family day out in one of Dartmoor’s prettiest villages.
1 to 2 May 2027 Held at the Royal Cornwall Events Centre near Wadebridge, this large spring exhibition brings together home improvement specialists, garden suppliers and self-build professionals from across Cornwall. Visitors can explore products and advice covering kitchens, bathrooms, interiors, landscaping, renewable energy, architecture, planning and construction. The show also includes plant nurseries, a homeware market and a Cornish food and drink area with refreshments and local produce. It is open from 10 am to 4 pm on Saturday and Sunday, with advance tickets available from the organiser.
2 May 2027 One of the leading food events in Devon, Salcombe Crabfest is a free one-day festival celebrating the town’s fishing heritage and locally landed brown crab. Events take place from the Fish Quay to Whitestrand, with live cookery demonstrations by local and award-winning chefs, seafood stalls, family workshops, music and entertainment. Organised by the Rotary Club of Salcombe, the festival raises money for local charities and community projects. It is a popular choice for visitors searching for what’s on in South West England over the early May bank holiday weekend. Expect Salcombe to be busy and arrange travel or accommodation in advance.
2 May 2027 One of the largest food events in Dorset, Shaftesbury Food Festival fills the town centre with more than 100 food, drink and craft stalls. Highlights include live cookery demonstrations, local producers, music and the Gold Hill Cheese Race, where competitors carry a 23kg cheese up the famous cobbled street. It is a popular choice for visitors looking for what’s on in South West England over the early May bank holiday, so expect the town to be busy.
3 May 2027 The 167th North Somerset Show brings livestock competitions, horse showing, showjumping and countryside displays to the showground near Wraxall. Attractions include tractor pulling, rural crafts, sheep shearing, blacksmithing, main ring entertainment and more than 260 trade stands. It is one of the leading agricultural events for visitors looking for what’s on in Somerset over the early May bank holiday. Gates open at 8.30 am, parking is free, and dogs are permitted on fixed-length leads, with some restrictions.
7 to 8 May 2027 An adults-only festival celebrating Cornish Rattler cider with two days of live music and entertainment at Healeys Cornish Cyder Farm near Newquay. The programme includes performances on the Rattler Main Stage, lodge sessions, comedy, a silent disco, karaoke, competitions and the popular Rattler Olympics. Weekend camping, campervan and motorhome pitches are available with the appropriate tickets. Rattler Fest is strictly for visitors aged 18 and over, and advance ticket booking is required. The full 2027 music line-up will be announced separately.
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 May 2027 Following a successful launch in 2026, the Seaton Pirate Festival returns for a swashbuckling day of free family entertainment in the town centre and along the seafront. Expect pirate parades, live music, street entertainment, market stalls, children’s activities, themed performances and plenty of costumed pirates, creating a fun-filled celebration for all ages on Devon’s Jurassic Coast.
27 to 31 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.
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 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.
3 to 5 June 2027 One of the largest agricultural events in South West England, the Royal Bath & West Show celebrates farming, food and countryside life over three days. Visitors can expect livestock competitions, equestrian displays, vintage machinery, rural demonstrations, local food and drink, live music, family entertainment and hundreds of trade stands at the Bath & West Showground near Shepton Mallet.
4 to 6 June 2027 The English Riviera Airshow returns to Paignton for three days of spectacular flying displays over Tor Bay, alongside a packed programme of entertainment on the ground. Free to attend, the event features military and civilian aircraft, interactive exhibits, food and drink stalls, family activities and a lively seafront atmosphere, making it one of the South West’s biggest annual events. Many people make a weekend of the airshow by staying in Paignton, Torquay, Brixham or nearby towns along the English Riviera. Accommodation is often booked well ahead of the event.
The English Riviera Airshow returns to Paignton for three days of flying displays over Tor Bay and entertainment on the ground. Free to attend, it features military and civilian aircraft, interactive exhibits, food stalls and family activities. Many visitors make a weekend of the airshow by staying in Paignton, Torquay, Brixham or elsewhere on the English Riviera. Accommodation is often booked well ahead of this major event in South West England.
11 to 13 June 2027 Discovery Festival returns to Central Park in Plymouth from 11 to 13 June 2027 for three days 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. Tickets are available now, with the full 2027 line-up due to be announced.
23 to 27 June 2027 Following its traditional fallow year in 2026, Glastonbury Festival returns to Worthy Farm for five days of world-class music, performing arts and culture. As one of the world’s most famous festivals, it brings together hundreds of stages featuring international headline acts alongside theatre, circus, comedy, cabaret, dance, spoken word, healing fields and family entertainment, creating an unforgettable experience in the Somerset countryside. The 2027 festival dates have been confirmed as Wednesday 23 to Sunday 27 June.
9 to 11 July 2027 A three-day music festival bringing jazz, blues, funk and soul to Vivary Park in the centre of Taunton. BlueTone Festival returns with more than 20 acts performing across two stages, although the 2027 line-up and individual headliners have yet to be announced. Friday runs from 5 pm to 10.30 pm, with music from 11.30 am to 10.30 pm on Saturday and Sunday. Early bird weekend passes go on sale on 10 August 2026. Visitors travelling from farther afield may wish to book accommodation in Taunton early.
22 to 25 July 2027 A four-day celebration of adventure travel held in the scenic grounds of Mount Edgcumbe Country Park. The festival brings together explorers, travellers and outdoor enthusiasts for inspirational talks, adventurous activities and live music. Previous programmes have included paddleboarding, wellness sessions, workshops and stories from prominent adventurers, with camping and other accommodation options available at the festival site.
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, shows, live music, food events, performances, family activities and seasonal days out across Devon, Cornwall, Somerset, Dorset and Bristol.
Can I use this page to find what’s on this weekend?
Yes. The weekend section near the top highlights selected events taking place across South West England. The monthly listings provide more ideas arranged in chronological order.
Are there free events in South West England?
Many towns and coastal resorts host free markets, carnivals, regattas, community festivals and outdoor performances. Some events are free to enter but may charge for parking, rides, activities or selected attractions.
Where can I find outdoor events in Devon and Cornwall?
Outdoor events take place in town centres, parks, gardens, harbours, showgrounds and coastal locations throughout Devon and Cornwall. They include food festivals, agricultural shows, live music, theatre, regattas and family activities.
What events are suitable for families?
Family events include country shows, heritage fairs, children’s theatre, museum activities, wildlife events, festivals and community celebrations. Check age guidance, facilities and ticket requirements before visiting.
What events are available for adults?
Events for adults include concerts, comedy, theatre, exhibitions, food and drink festivals, heritage events and evening entertainment. Some venues and performances have age restrictions, so check before booking.
Does the guide cover Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset?
Yes. The guide covers events throughout Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset, together with selected events in Bristol and other nearby parts of South West England.
How can I find out what is on today or tomorrow?
Check the current weekend and monthly sections, where events are listed by date. For a same-day visit, confirm opening times, ticket availability and any programme changes with the organiser before setting out.
How often is the South West England events guide updated?
The guide is updated regularly as dates are announced and new events are confirmed. The weekend section is refreshed more frequently to keep it useful for short-notice days out.
Can I browse South West England events by month?
Yes. Use the month navigation near the top of the page to jump directly to the relevant section. Events within each month are presented in chronological order.
Are all event details confirmed before publication?
Listings are normally based on information published by organisers and venues. Dates, times, locations, tickets and programmes can still change, so always check the latest information before travelling.
Do popular events need to be booked in advance?
Popular concerts, festivals, performances and family attractions can sell out, particularly during weekends and school holidays. Booking tickets, transport and accommodation in advance is advisable for major events.
Can outdoor events be cancelled because of the weather?
Yes. Outdoor performances, balloon launches, air displays, boat trips and other activities may be changed, postponed or cancelled because of weather or operational conditions. Check for updates before travelling.
Can event organisers submit an event?
Yes. Organisers can submit events for consideration through our event submission page. Inclusion is not guaranteed, and sufficient information should be provided to allow the event details to be checked.
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.
