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Summer Guide 2026
- Jun 30
- 9 min read
Make the most of summer in the East of England; long evenings, garden lunches, beach days and weekends spent exploring somewhere new. Whether you're staying with us for a few nights or simply looking for ideas for your next day out, we've rounded up some of our favourite events and experiences taking place across the region.
From flower shows and food festivals to live music and family days out, there's plenty happening within easy reach of our pubs.
Cambridgeshire
Art & Culture
Cambridge Shakespeare Festival | 13th July – 29th August
Stop off at The Carpenter's Arms for lunch before heading into the city for open-air Shakespeare performances in some of the most prestigious college gardens. Take in Romeo & Juliet in the setting of St John's College or A Midsummer Night's Dream in Trinity College garden.
Cambridge Open Studios | Throughout July
Artists, ceramicists, jewellers and makers open their studios across Cambridgeshire, offering the chance to meet local creatives and buy directly from them. There's also the opportunity for young artists to exhibit at The Fitzwilliam Museum throughout the summer.
Music in the Parks | Select Sundays until September
Throughout July and August, Cambridge's parks become open-air concert venues with free performances by orchestras, jazz bands and local musicians. It's a chance to spend a sunny afternoon lounging in the city, and if you still feel like more, why not check out Cambridge Folk Festival on 1st - 2nd August.
Photography Workshops at Anglesey Abbey | Multiple dates
Explore Anglesey Abbey through your camera lens with photography workshops running from July unti November. Whether you're interested in shooting landscapes or close-up wildlife, the workshop is for mixed ability and is suitable for iPhone to DSLR!
With Chestnut
July Festival Celebrations | 10th - 11th July
The Packhorse Inn are bringing the race day energy to the pub on Friday 10th and Saturday 11th July. Join them for brunch on July Cup Day with live music from David Foster and Bloody Marys by The Pickle House between 11am and 1pm.
After a day at the racecourse (or just because it’s the weekend), unwind in the garden with live music and an outdoor bar hosted by Moatwood Gin on the Friday and Saturday evening.
An Evening With Billecart-Salmon Champagne | 13th August
Looking for something a little finer? Spend an indulgent evening celebrating the Champagnes of Billecart-Salmon at The Old Bridge, Huntingdon. The evening features a selection of cuvées and carefully matched dishes, with insight into the history and philosophy of the Champagne house by their UK manager, Charlie Wethered.
EAAA Charity Polo Day | Saturday 18th July
Spend a summer afternoon watching fast-paced polo in the Cambridgeshire countryside. Alongside the matches you'll find food stalls and a relaxed atmosphere, making it a great day out whether you're a polo fan or simply looking for something different. Round off the day with dinner or an overnight stay at The Three Blackbirds Inn, near Newmarket. Chestnut are proudly sponsoring the occasion.
For The Family
Punting on the River Cam
Is it even summer without without seeing the city from the water? Choose a chauffeured punt through the College Backs or hire your own boat for an afternoon on the river.
Pond Dipping at Wicken Fen | 24th, 28th & 30th July
Celebrate one of Cambridgeshire's most important nature reserves with guided walks, wildlife spotting and family activities throughout the summer, including pond dipping. Little'ns will delve below the water with equipment that's provided on the day and see which creatures they can find.
Highland Cow Cottage
Looking for something a little unexpected? Take a trip to Highland Cow Cottage for an experience
brushing, hand-feeding and petting a small herd of Highland cows, including Elizabeth and Sharon. While you cannot go into the field with the cows, you'll be able to also feed them.
Wimpole Estate Summer of Play
The National Trust's much-loved family programme returns to Wimpole Estate with giant lawn games, woodland adventures and outdoor activities across the estate throughout the school holidays. Choose to go Big Tree Climbing, feed the pigs on home farm or simply enjoy Craft Club on a Monday.
Essex
Outdoor Entertainment
Heritage Live at Audley End House | July–August
Some of the UK's biggest artists perform in the spectacular grounds of Audley End House during this popular outdoor concert series. Whether you're a Scissor Sisters fan or more into the Ibiza classics, there are remaining tickets available at this venue just a short drive from The Eight Bells - so pull up a chair in the garden beforehand for dinner.
Bandstand Concerts, Saffron Walden |
Select Dates
Selected Saturday afternoons bring free live music to Jubilee Garden, with jazz, brass bands and local performers providing the soundtrack to summer from the bandstand.
Comedy In The Garden | 10th July
Hosted by local comedian Sean Harrison with supporting acts throughout the evening, The Eight Bells are hosting a one-off comedy night in their walled garden this summer. Enjoy dishes from the main menu and bar menu as well as some complimentary popcorn.
In Nature
Beth Chatto Gardens | Open Tuesday - Saturday throughout summer
Open throughout the summer, Beth Chatto's world-famous gardens showcase brilliant planting designed to thrive in every condition, providing inspiration for gardeners of every level. If you'd like to learn more about how plants and people are shaped by interconnections, the gardens are also hosting a symposium over 27th - 28th August. Complete your visit with time spent on the terrace at The Crown, Stoke-by-Nayland.
Dedham Vale & Flatford
Explore the countryside that inspired John Constable with riverside walks, rowing boats and picturesque scenery before stopping for lunch at The Red Lion in East Bergholt. The pub has a walking map to help guide you on a 4 mile walk, or if you have a little longer to explore, stop by The Munnings Art Museum for even more culture.
Mersea Island Trail
Spend the day discovering seafood, colourful beach huts and coastal walks on one of Essex's best-loved islands. Known for oysters, but also home to what is believed to be the only Anglo-Saxon land bridges in England, Mersea Island has plenty of cycling routes or walking routes to explore on a summer's afternoon.
Trails and Treasures
Bugs and Butterflies Summer Trail | 18th July - 31st August
One for families with little'ns - collect a free Bugs and Butterflies Summer Trail sheet at Hadleigh Park this summer and discover all the wildlife hiding in the park. And, while you're visiting, look out for the grazing cattle and goats that call the park home.
Saffron Walden Market |
Every Tuesday & Saturday
Browse one of England's oldest charter markets, packed with artisan food, flowers, antiques and local producers. Take a look at the traders here and while you're around, why not explore Bridge End Gardens - open all year bar Christmas Day.
Colchester Castle Summer Events
Throughout the school holidays, Colchester Castle are hosting an array of family activities, from Roman experiences and living history demonstrations, including a Mystical Moon Trail and Witchcraft Workshop.
Get Creative
Beginners Stained Glass Workshop | Saturday 1st & Sunday 2nd August
Join resident artist, Mona Marnell, at Hylands Park this August for a stained glass workshop aimed at beginners. From picking your pattern and learning to cut to copper-foiling and smouldering, you'll learn all the basics to create your own artwork to take away.
Norfolk
Flowers & Fauna
RHS Sandringham Flower Show | 22nd–26th July
One of the most exciting new additions to the RHS calendar arrives at Sandringham this summer. It's the inaugural RHS Sandringham Flower Show, so expect inspiring show gardens, floral displays, expert talks, shopping and plenty of Norfolk food and drink, all within the Royal Estate. You never know, HRH The King may even make an appearance.
We are also proud sponsors of Jane Scott Moncrieff's show garden in support of The Gurkha Welfare trust, so read more about the garden here.
Wild Dahlia Co. | Opening late July
Spend an afternoon wandering through thousands of dahlias in this brand-new pick-your-own flower garden near The Maltings, Weybourne, and The Feathers, Holt. With over 150 varieties to discover, it's a lovely way to spend a summer morning before heading out for lunch.
Snettisham & Titchwell Birdwatching Safari | 3rd September
Spend the day exploring two of Norfolk's best nature reserves with an expert guide. Start your day at Snettisham where you'll experience 'thousands of birds soaring together at high tide' before lunch and an afternoon at Titchwell reserve to spot their resident species such as Marsh Harriers and Avocets.
Wellbeing
Sauna Next The Sea, Wells-next-the-Sea | Open throughout summer
Hidden away in Wells' fishing quarter, Sauna Next The Sea combines a wood-fired sauna with views across the salt marshes. Cool off with a dip in the quay before strolling into town for lunch at The Globe.
And if you're in the area for the afternoon, explore some of our favourite shops down Staithe Street.
Outlaw Half Weekend, Holkham | 4th–5th July
One of the county's biggest endurance weekends returns to Holkham with triathlon events, children's races, an Aquabike competition and the new Outlaw Gravel Sprint. Even if you're not taking part, it's a brilliant atmosphere for spectators!
Pedal Norfolk Festival | 8th–9th August
Road rides, gravel routes and family cycling all come together for this popular weekend celebrating North Norfolk on two wheels, hosted at Holkham Hall. Whether you're doing 25 miles or 100 miles, it's the perfect opportunity to ride with friends on quiet roads and through the estate.
After Dark
After-Hours with the Mermaids | 27th–28th July, 25th August
SEA LIFE Hunstanton stays open into the evening for a magical family event where children can spot mermaids swimming alongside sharks and tropical fish. Make the most of your time by the coast with supper at The Ancient Mariner Inn beforehand, or pop by Dune Bar & Kitchen (Open Thurs - Sun) for pizza and sundowner.
Soak up a Sunset | Thursdays - Sundays*
Just in time for summer, Dune has opened on the Norfolk coast to give you unparalleled views over Old Hunstanton beach. Grab a pizza or tacos from the kitchen, enjoy something cold from the bar, and spend the evening watching kitesurfers and kayaks out on the sea.
Every Sunday throughout summer, enjoy live music from 2pm until 5pm.
*Dune closes at 5pm on Sundays, but you're welcome to grab a drink from The Ancient Mariner Inn and pull up a chair.
Save The Date: Sheringham 1940s Weekend | 18th–20th September
One of North Norfolk's biggest annual events returns with military vehicles, vintage fashion, live music and wartime re-enactments across both towns. Although not strictly in summer, it's definitely one for your calendars!
Suffolk
Fast & Furious
Helmingham Hall Outdoor Cinema | From 3rd July
Pack a picnic and settle in beneath the stars for a series of outdoor film screenings in the wonderful grounds of Helmingham Hall. This year's programme includes Dirty Dancing, Mamma Mia and Encanto Sing-A-Long. If you feel like making a night of it and waking up on the Suffolk coast, check bedroom availability at The Ship, Dunwich and The Westleton Crown.
Zoo Fest at Africa Alive! | 1st August
Africa Alive! stays open into the evening for live music, street food, family entertainment and the chance to explore the zoo after hours. There will be tribute acts for your favourite artists - including Suffolk's own, Ed Sheeran - and even a funfair.
Culford Classic Car Show | 12th July
Browse hundreds of classic cars while supporting local charities at this popular annual event near Bury St Edmunds. Culford School is just a short drive from the historic town, so stop by to discover the cathedral afterwards or head over to The Weeping Willow for a spot of dinner on the terrace.
In The Garden
Victorian Garden Party at Kentwell Hall | 11th–12th July
Travel back to Victorian Suffolk with croquet, lawn tennis, boating, live music, afternoon tea and costumed performers bringing Kentwell Hall to life. And, when it's time to travel to the 2000s, head to The Black Lion to try their summer menu.
Botanical Cast Workshop | 8th August
Learn how to preserve flowers and foliage in plaster during this creative workshop at Southwold Flower Farm. Just a short drive from The Ship in Dunwich, you'll leave with your own handmade botanical tile to take home.
Pilates In The Garden | 25th July
Spend a slow morning in The Weeping Willow garden doing a pilates class on the lawn before gathering together for a superfood bowl and Mimosa. Instructor, Freya, will lead you through an accessible class to ease you into the week.
By The Sea
Southwold Sandcastle Competition | 11th July
Buckets and spades at the ready! This free and much-loved seaside competition welcomes families of all ages to create their best beach masterpieces on Southwold's sandy shore. Arrive at Gun Hill for 12.30pm with a few hours to spare and bring your creativity.
Solar Eclipse Viewing at Dunwich Heath | 12th August
Join DASH Astro for an evening of guided solar eclipse viewing at one of Suffolk's darkest coastal locations. The viewing 'starts from 5.45pm, with 90% of the sun obscured by around 7.15pm' and is a rare occurance best viewed in 'dark sky' areas.
Coastal Voyager, Southwold Harbour | Regular dates
Running throughout summer, Coastal Voyager offers exhilarating trips along the Suffolk coast, from high-speed sea adventures to wildlife cruises along the River Blyth. Take in the Suffolk coast from a different point of view before enjoying a pint on dry land at The Westleton Crown.
Planning your summer?
Whether you're heading to the coast, discovering somewhere new in the countryside or spending a day exploring one of our region's towns, there's plenty going on nearby. Pair your day out with lunch in the garden, dinner before an evening event or extend your visit with a stay. Explore our collection of pubs and book your next visit.
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