The UK has always been a popular travel destination that enjoys almost 40 million visitors every year. Last year, UNWTO even ranked the UK the seventh most visited country in the world. Incredibly high bookings and prices in London hotels do not surprise anyone these days. However, the country has much more to offer besides its capital. Such areas and cities as Cornwall, Liverpool, Skye, and The Cotswolds have drawn the attention of travelers recently. No doubt, it is way more interesting to visit any city during festivals and other special events. Such festivals as Edinburgh Fringe or Sheffield Doc Fest attract millions of guests to the UK. Here is the list of the most interesting upcoming events in the UK that travelers may be interested in visiting this spring.
If you are eager for good laughter, the Glasgow International Comedy Festival is a place to visit. This is the largest comedy festival in Europe that has become increasingly popular in recent years. Last year, the event attracted more than 200,000 visitors and had over 400 shows in the schedule. This year, the festival is even bigger. The festival lasts the whole of March and ends only at the beginning of April.
The Grand National is a wonderful reason to book a hotel in Liverpool. One of the biggest racing events in the world, the Grand National is held in Aintree, a town close to Liverpool, this year. The event kicks off on April 5. As a rule, roughly 150,000 people visit this event to find out who will win the £1 million prize. Don’t forget about dressing properly and booking tickets in advance if you plan to visit the Grand National.
A less known event, the Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race is a quintessentially British event. The rowing boat race between the two most prestigious universities in Britain kicks off on April 7. For decades, the boat race was a local event even though it was broadcasted by BBC. However, now it can easily attract more than 250,000 people who find comfortable places on the banks of the River Thames and enjoy the show. The race is free to visit.
When it is the best time to book a hotel in Stratford-Upon-Avon and visit this wonderful city? Definitely, before Shakespeare's Birthday Celebrations (April 23) as this is the most popular event in the hometown of the famous writer. There are always many cheap and free plays, as well as performances of famous actors who play Shakespeare's iconic roles.
In May, consider visiting the coastal town of Brighton to participate in Brighton Fringe, one of the largest alternative art festivals in the world. last year, more than half a million people visited the town to enjoy dancing performances, exhibitions, comedy acts, plays, and other entertaining events.