Looking for Spring Festivals in the UK? The UK has a festival for just about everything and you can find them in both the cities and the county. In 2025 there are a host to choose from , from walking festival, to whisky festival to literary festivals, to name but a few. Here is a list of 9 of the lesser known ones, for those who want something a little off the beaten track. All have accommodation is nearby most of these, or it is easy to hire a car from most larger centres. Trains or buses are also available in most places.
Isle of Wight Spring Walking Festival
10-18 May 2025
The Isle of Wight Walking Festival is a vibrant celebration of the island’s stunning landscapes, rich heritage, and welcoming community. Each spring the festival offers a wide range of guided walks suitable for all ages and abilities—from gentle coastal strolls to more challenging countryside hikes. It’s a fantastic way to explore the island’s diverse scenery, from chalk cliffs to lush forests, while learning about local history, wildlife, and culture. With friendly guides and a sociable atmosphere, the festival attracts walkers from across the UK, making it both a great outdoor adventure and a unique community experience.
2. Hay Festival
22 May – 1 June
The Hay Literary Festival is one of the world’s leading literary events, held annually in the charming town of Hay-on-Wye in Wales. Celebrating books, ideas, and the power of storytelling, it brings together renowned authors, poets, thinkers, and artists for inspiring talks, debates, and performances. From fiction and politics to science and environmental issues, the festival covers a wide range of topics, appealing to curious minds of all ages. Set against a beautiful rural backdrop, the event has a relaxed, festival feel with food stalls, bookshops, and family-friendly activities, making it a cultural highlight for readers and writers alike.
3.Northmbrian Gathering
25th April
The Northumbrian Gathering is a Spring Festival that celebrates North East England’s rich cultural heritage. It is held annually in Morpeth, Northumberland. The event showcases traditional music, dance, dialect, crafts, and storytelling. It brings together communities and visitors to honour the region’s unique identity. With lively performances, competitions, and parades, the festival offers something for all ages. It’s a joyful and authentic experience, keeping Northumbrian traditions alive while fostering a strong sense of pride and connection to the area’s historic roots.
4. JMO Day of Dance (Morris Dancing)
26th April, 2025
There’s nothing like Morris Dancing, which dates back to the Middle Ages. The JMO Day of Dance is an annual celebration of traditional Morris dancing, hosted by the Joint Morris Organisations. It is the epitome of the Spring Festival! Held in a different UK town each year. It 2025 Stockport, Greater Manchester, will be the host. The festival brings together teams from across the country. It’s a vibrant day of music, colour, and performance, showcasing the rich heritage of Morris dance.
5. Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival
30th April – 5th May
The Speyside Whisky Festival is a renowned celebration of Scotland’s finest single malts, held in the heart of whisky country. Visitors can take part in distillery tours, tastings, masterclasses, and storytelling. This is all set amid Speyside’s stunning landscapes. It’s a must-visit event for whisky lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.
6. Blenheim Palace Food Festival
24-26th May 2025
This one is for lovers of the Stately Home! The Blenheim Palace Food Festival is a delicious celebration of British cuisine, set in the stunning grounds of the historic Oxfordshire estate. Held annually, it features top chefs, artisan producers, and a wide variety of food and drink stalls. You will find live demonstrations, tastings, family activities, and a vibrant atmosphere. It’s a fantastic day out for food lovers, combining culinary delights with the grandeur and beauty of Blenheim Palace.
7. Malvern Spring Festival, Worcestershire
8-11 May 2025
The Malvern Spring Festival is a vibrant celebration of gardening, food, and sustainable living. The festival is held annually at the Three Counties Showground in Worcestershire. It is known for its stunning floral displays, show gardens, and expert talks. The festival attracts horticultural enthusiasts from across the UK. Visitors can explore plant stalls, browse artisan crafts, and enjoy local food and drink. With a friendly, festival atmosphere and plenty of inspiration for gardeners of all levels, it’s a highlight of the spring events calendar.
8. Swaledale Festival, Yorkshire Dales
24th May – 7th June, 2025
The Swaledale Festival is a two-week celebration of music, arts, and walking, set in the stunning landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales. Held each spring, it features a rich programme of classical concerts, folk performances, talks, exhibitions, and guided walks. The festival brings world-class artists to intimate rural venues. It creates a unique cultural experience that blends artistic excellence with the natural beauty and community spirit of the Swaledale and surrounding areas.
9. The Great Estate Festival, Redruth, Cornwall
30th May – 1st June
The Great Estate Festival in Redruth, Cornwall, is a quirky and eclectic summer event held on the grounds of Scorrier House. Known as the “most rambunctious garden fête,” it features live music, circus acts, vintage fairground rides, woodland discos, and wild entertainment. With a fun, family-friendly atmosphere, it offers a magical mix of music, arts, and unexpected delights.
So now that Spring is here, why not head to one of these fabulous Spring festivals and join in the fun!
