Unmissable events to explore this summer
From buzzing family festivals and live music on the beach to delicious feast nights and foodie workshops – the South West has it covered. Though this year may look a little different with some restrictions still in place, there’s plenty of exciting events on the cards for your summer staycations. We’ve rounded up our top picks across Cornwall, Devon and Somerset for you to start adding to your ‘must-visit’ list.
Cornwall
Foodie Festivals and Live Music
Food Jam | Enys Gardens | 10th – 11th July
Taking place in the beautiful gardens of Enys House, Food Jam is an annual event celebrating local produce, delicious street food and live music. You can also enjoy various cooking demonstrations, relax with family yoga or take part in a wild gin workshop.
Rock Oyster Festival | Rock | 30th July – 1st August
Hosted by Paul Ainsworth, Rock Oyster Festival is a buzzing annual event taking place at Roskear Farm near Wadebridge. As one of North Cornwall’s most popular events, it’s a wonderful celebration of artisan food, music and art. As well as the delicious oysters, enjoy circus acts, live music, children’s entertainment and craft stalls.
Feast Nights
Woodfired Feast Nights at Philleigh | Truro | 21st and 28th July
Sit at large wooden tables decorated in wildflowers and candles as chefs cook on an open fire. Enjoy perfectly cooked meat, fish and shellfish suppers while spending time with friends and family.
Cooking and Food Workshops
Summer Foraging Workshop | Rachel Lambert Wild Food | 20th July
Discover the hidden treasures of our coast and hedgerows, with a two-mile guided walk through Cape Cornwall. Foraging experts provide an exciting and informative insight into the world of wild food and will round off the day with delicious tasters.
Cookery Workshops | Rick Stein’s Cookery School | Throughout July
Inspired by Rick’s travels around the world, Rick Stein’s Cookery School celebrates cuisines from France, Singapore and India - while also offering a superb range of fish and shellfish workshops. You’ll be treated to an afternoon of excellent teaching before enjoying the fruits of your labour.
Cornish in a Day with FamilyChef | Truro Cookery School | 17th July
Perfect for young budding chefs, Truro Cookery School provides a day of family learning and good food. With their Cornish in a Day workshop learn how to make a traditional Cornish pasty and Tea Treat Buns amongst other delights.
Art Classes and Exhibitions
Chaos, Connections and Collaborations | The Tate St Ives | Throughout July
Inspired by creative journeys through lockdown, the Chaos, Connections and Collaborations exhibition explores what it means to have a ‘sense of space’.
Drawing Tours | Trewidden Garden Penzance | 31st July
Hosted by local artist Gillian Cooper, pack your sketch books and explore the exotic plants and hidden corners of Trewidden gardens. With excellent guidance and teaching you’ll enjoy a creative afternoon of drawing and practical exercises.
Read more about our favourite creative workshops here.
Family activities
The Tale of Peter Rabbit and Benjamin Bunny | Bedruthan Steps | 3rd July
Perfect for young imaginations, The Tale of Peter Rabbit and Benjamin Bunny is brought to life by the Quantum Theatre Company. Taking place on the sunny lawn of Bedruthan Steps, this will make for a fantastic afternoon for all ages.
Natural Health and Wellbeing Week | The Lost Gardens of Heligan | 3rd – 11th July
From sunrise yoga to survival and bushcraft classes, enjoy a week-long schedule of activities suitable for all ages that will leave you inspired, uplifted and restored.
Damian Bailey’s Family Photoshoots | North Cornwall | July 11th – 31st
Capture your holiday memories with a family photoshoot on the beach with award-winning photographer Damian Bailey. Whether it’s a beach BBQ, surf lesson or just a walk along the sand, Damian knows the importance of capturing special family moments and provides high quality images for you to keep forever. Contact Damian to book.
Devon
Foodie Festivals and Live Music
Chagstock Festival | Whiddon Down | 23rd July – 24th July
Taking place on the edge of picturesque Dartmoor, Chagstock Festival promises a weekend of excellent live music and entertainment. This year you can catch Seasick Steve and Scouting for Girls headlining the festival. Tickets available here.
Feast Nights
Wild Artichokes Feast Nights | Across Devon | Throughout July
Throughout the summer, Wild Artichokes host a range of excellent feast nights in various locations across Devon. Expect beautifully cooked seafood, stunning vegetarian dishes and delicious curries.
Cooking and Food Workshops
Indian Cuisine | Ashburton Cookery School | 18th July
Learn how to prepare and cook authentic Indian cuisine with exceptionally talented chefs. Throughout the day you’ll discover how to make Naan, Pasanda and Aloo Tamatar Ki Sabji – all before sitting and eating as a group.
Summer Cooking Masterclass | South Brent | 24th July
Enjoy a cooking demonstration from Head Chef, Joshua Ackland, followed by a three-course-lunch at the Glazebrook House.
Exhibitions
Exhibition: Density and Lightness | Exeter Cathedral | Throughout July
Taking place in the beautiful Exeter Cathedral, South West Sculptors are showcasing the work of 24 skilled artists from across Devon, Cornwall, Dorset and Somerset. The sculptures on display have been made with a multitude of materials, including stone, wood, ceramic and glass. Entry is included with cathedral admission.
Somerset
Foodie Festivals and Live Music
Somerton Music and Arts Festival | Somerton | 2nd - 10th July
A week of music, art, culture and family activities across Somerton. With plenty of events happening each day, you’ll find something for everyone. On the final day, the week of festivities comes to a close with a full day of music, known as Somerstock- a well-loved family festival.
Farmfestival | Gilcombe | 30th – 31st July
Taking place in July every year in the picturesque Somerset countryside is a small and relaxed family friendly festival. Farmfestival brings together great music, comedy and poetry for a memorable and enjoyable weekend. Little ones will be well catered for, with arts and crafts activities taking place across both days.
Art Exhibitions
Exhibition: Royal Photographic Society | The Museum of Somerset | Until 10th July
The Royal Photographic Society’s new exhibition is a unique collection of work celebrating contemporary photography. Focusing on modern issues, experimental techniques and image-makers from across the world.
Exhibition: Safari by Moish Sokal | Malthouse Gallery | Until 17th July
Artist Moish Sokal has put together an excellent exhibition featuring paintings of the wildlife parks of South Africa, Zimbabwe and Bostwana, inspired by his travels in 2019. The Malthouse Gallery is situated in the beautiful East Lambrook Manor Gardens. Admission is free.
Family Activities
Walking safaris | Exmoor National Park | Throughout July
Explore beautiful Exmoor with guided two - three hour walks where you’ll be treated to encounters with wild deer and Exmoor ponies. Also expect: foraging lessons, spectacular views, homemade cake and plenty of tea and coffee.
Open Air Summer Concert | Porlock, Minehead | 17th July
Enjoy an evening of classical and popular music performed by the Pleasure Done Theatre Company and Friends in Harmony choir. Pack a picnic and take a seat on the green for an evening of entertainment.
Image credits: Main image courtesy of Philleigh Way Cookery School | Perfect Stays | Unsplash
Speak to our Concierge Team to start planning your South West staycation: 01208 895570
Posted by Bethany Walton
Beth can usually be found on a Cornish beach or enjoying a swim in the sea. She has great insight about where to visit across the county, plus plenty of recommendations for finding the best Cornish ice cream.
