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We are still in the early days of spring, with cooler mornings and the occasional cloudy day, but increasingly those warmer, brighter afternoons are beginning to arrive. Across April, May and June 2026, the region starts to fill with garden events, Easter activities, quirky local traditions and wonderfully British countryside celebrations.
If you are planning a spring or early-summer stay, here are some key Cotswold events and seasonal highlights for 2026.
April is when the season begins to turn.
3–6 April 2026
Across the Easter weekend, many local attractions host family-friendly Easter trails and egg hunts, including gardens, farm parks and estates across Gloucestershire and the wider Cotswolds.
This is a lovely time for families staying in the area, with spring trails, outdoor activities and seasonal events beginning to appear.
Mid-April to early May 2026
While not a fixed event, bluebell season is one of the most beautiful reasons to visit in April. Woodland walks around Painswick, Stroud, and the surrounding valleys begin to fill with soft carpets of blue from mid-April onwards.
Vists to Painswick Rococo Garden and Westonbirt Arboretum are especially lovely at this time of year.
15–16 April 2026
For guests visiting the wider Cotswolds, the April Meeting at Cheltenham Racecourse is a wonderful spring event.
May is one of the strongest months for the region, with longer days, brighter weather and some of the area’s most iconic events.
29 April – 4 May 2026
One of the region’s best-loved cultural events, the Cheltenham Jazz Festival runs from 29 April to 4 May 2026.
6–10 May 2026
The internationally renowned Badminton Horse Trials takes place from 6–10 May 2026 and is always a highlight of the spring calendar.
25 May 2026
The famous Cooper’s Hill Cheese Rolling takes place on Monday 25 May 2026, over the Spring Bank Holiday.
Held at Cooper's Hill, it is one of the Cotswolds’ most wonderfully eccentric traditions.
25 May 2026
The Tetbury Woolsack Races also takes place on 25 May 2026, making it another brilliant bank holiday event.
Held in Tetbury, competitors race uphill carrying wool sacks in celebration of the town’s historic wool trade.
By June, spring begins to settle into early summer.
2–7 June 2026
A brilliant option for families and curious minds, the Cheltenham Science Festival runs from 2–7 June 2026.
June is also one of the loveliest months for:
• weddings
• garden visits
• vineyard afternoons
• village fêtes
• long countryside walks
As the season gently unfolds, April through to June is one of the loveliest times to experience the Cotswolds. From bluebell walks and Easter trails to long bank holiday weekends filled with local tradition, these months offer a wonderful balance of slower spring mornings and the first hints of summer. Whether you are joining us for a family stay, a gathering with friends, or simply a few restorative days in the countryside, there is always something quietly special happening nearby. If you would like recommendations tailored to your stay, we are always delighted to help guide you towards what is on during your visit.