What to do and see in England, United Kingdom: The Best Events

One of the top new independent film festivals in the world, the Satisfied Eye International Film Festival is a true celebration of film that brings together the best feature films, short films, animation and documentaries from around the globe. From Oscar and BAFTA winners, to Q&As and workshops, there is something for everyone, whether children and families or students and cinephiles. The event concludes with a gala red carpet awards ceremony which is open to all and is a chance for the public to see the next Scorsese or Street as they take the next step on their journey.

Seasonal market with over 40 stalls selling all kinds of unique festive gifts,. Warm-up with a mulled wine or hot chocolate, try some of our authentic German beers or sample some of our seasonal foods from around the world. Then soak up the atmosphere while little ones take a ride on the vintage carousel, or enjoy some live music.

"The Weston Sand Sculpture Festival is open from 4th April until the end of September. With every year a new theme we will display a new exhibition with over 30 sculptures entirely made out of sand! The competition between carvers gets greater every year as they try to win you over. The standard is high every year so use your power wisely in the competition area, because you are in control to vote. Alongside the sculptures will be photo opportunities, cinema experiences, workshops, play areas and seaside café. So see you at the Beach?"

Featuring 80 of the world’s top competitors, the annual Burghley Horse Trials is one of the UK’s top ten sporting events, and boasts a spectacular setting amongst picturesque Elizabethan parkland. Here, dressage, cross country and show jumping competitions combine to create a spectacular four-day equestrian extravaganza, and former winners include everyone from European Champions to members of the Royal Family. Grab your seats in the grandstands and help to cheer your favourite fillies on to victory!

The Download Festival is the UK's most popular rock festival held every June in Leicestershire, England. The festival hosts some of the biggest names in rock such as AC/DC, Black Sabbath, Metallica, Iron Maiden and Guns N'Roses to name but a few. It’s possible to buy weekend only, 3 day or 5 day camping tickets which include access to the camping area and all areas of the venue.

As close as we'll ever get to a real-life Fast and Furious scene, the Formula One British Grand Prix racing car event takes place in the legendary Silverstone stadium. Since 1950 the former aerodrome has served as the leading racing car track holding host to legendary drivers such as Guiseppe Farina and Lewis Hamilton. While the event is always televised, nothing beats the live engine roars and contagious adrenaline. It’s all extreme nail biting and constant screeching as the world’s fastest cars leave you in a state of anxiety as they compete for the title of ‘Formula One World Champion’.

Said to be the world’s best known regatta, Henley’s remains a firm favourite in the social diary for those who love one of England’s most loved pastimes, rowing. Taking place on the River Thames, Henley Royal Regatta draws in the classic English gent, those wanting to experience a slice of authentic British life, and even the odd Olympian. Spanning two wars, this five-day event has taken place each year since 1839, over the first weekend in July, and consists of 200 races that are around a mile long each. As part of the ‘English social season’ the event comes with a strict dress code so it’s a jolly good excuse to dress up, pack the cucumber sandwiches, and break out the Pimms.