Best spring days out in the UK

For inspiration, here are five of our favourite days out this spring…

Beltane Fire Festival, Edinburgh
What better way to celebrate the beginning of summer than indulging in a little fire play? Inspired by the ancient Gaelic festival of Beltane, Edinburgh’s atmospheric Calton Hill comes alive with fire displays, pagan-inspired dancing, and all sorts of curious characters. The festival is one of the city’s most popular events, so get your tickets early!

30 April – see belthane.org

Hanami Festival, Kent
Ever wanted to experience the magic of Japanese cherry blossom without the intercontinental flight? Well, you’ll be pleased to know you can by visiting the UK’s very own Hanami festival. Set in the beautiful Kent countryside at Brogdale, the festival lets you wander round the beautiful, blossoming orchard while enjoying a number of Japanese performances, entertainment and food.

14 April – see brogdalecollections.org.
  

The London Marathon, London
OK, so running 26 miles around central London might not sound like a relaxing way to spend a Sunday morning, but turning up and cheering on the racers can be one of the best ways to enjoy the capital. Wherever you choose to watch — whether around Canary Wharf or near Buckingham Palace — make sure you get there early so you can grab the best place to watch the runners go by.

28 April – see virginmoneylondonmarathon.com

Cheese Rolling Festival, Gloucestershire
One of the UK’s most bizarre sights sees competitors from far and wide descend on deepest Gloucestershire to roll cheese down a very steep hill. Yes, that’s right, the Cheese Rolling Festival has to be seen to be believed, attracting spectators from around the world to watch the latest plucky bunch of contenders chase cheese down the steep Cooper’s Hill. 

29 May – see SoGlos.com

Ludlow Spring Festival, Ludlow
Set in the grounds of the magnificent Ludlow Castle, the Ludlow Spring Festival showcases over 200 regionally-produced ales, 150 classic cars and live music over one exhilarating weekend. On top of all that entertainment, there’ll be plenty of food producers on hand to serve up some excellent local flavours to go with all that real ale. 11-12 May – see ludlowspringfestival.co.uk