Sport
From genteel games of cricket on village greens to huge stadiums heaving with noisy fans screaming their support, sport is part of the fabric of English life. The centuries-old social season is characterised by the thwack of tennis balls meeting champion rackets, thundering horses hooves, and glamorous hats at royal regattas, whilst legendary sportsmen are honoured in themed hotels, cafes and dedicated exhibitions. Attempt to join their ranks – try your hand at sporting activities in Olympic arenas, take to the road on two wheels, or immerse yourself in the open water. For a less conventional sports holiday, try a wackier pursuit. We suggest gravy wrestling or stinging nettle eating…
June events: Enjoy a flutter on the horses at Royal Ascot
Enjoy a quintessentially British day out at Royal Ascot – a highlight of the summer social calendar and one of the most exciting events of the year.
Location: Ascot, Berkshire
July events: Henley Royal Regatta
Enjoy the excitement and action of a classic English pastime in the scenic Oxfordshire countryside.
Location: Henley, Oxfordshire
A thrilling day at Chester Races
You can’t beat a fantastic day at the races, so get dressed up and pick up your race card for a day of fun and socialising.
Location: Chester, Cheshire
Visit the UK’s premier racing venue at Silverstone
There’s far more to this legendary circuit in Buckinghamshire than you may imagine.
Location: Silverstone, Buckinghamshire
September events: Test your fitness levels at The Great North Run
The Great North Run is an iconic half marathon with more than 54,000 runners registering to take part every year.
Location: Newcastle, Tyne and Wear
July events: Scarborough Cricket Festival
The annual festival is one of the most historic sporting events in the world and has played host to some great cricketers over the years.
Location: Scarborough, North Yorkshire
July events: Barbury International Horse Trials
Saddle up for this three-day event, which tests the strength and stamina of horses and their riders.
Location: Marlborough, Wiltshire
June events: Cheer on a winner at the Northumberland Plate Festival
Put on your posh frocks and enjoy three days of racing and live music at one of the biggest events in the North East horseracing calendar.
Location: Newcastle, Tyne and Wear
May events: Cheer on the cyclists at Lincoln Grand Prix
Take to the streets of Lincoln’s Cathedral Quarter to show your support for some of England’s top cyclists during a two-day festival of cycling.
Location: Lincoln, Lincolnshire