The months from April to October are the traditional time to visit the British Isles. As well as being the warmest time of the year, it is also when British Summer Time extends daylight long into the evenings. It is during this period that visitor attractions are fully operational, and when many social and sporting occasions take place.
During the months from April to June, the countryside bursts into bloom. Wild daffodils and bluebells herald the start of the season when gardens are at their most colourful.
July and August are the hottest months in the year, both in terms of temperature and events! The abundance of thrilling competitions, breathtaking festivals and plenty of other colourful events, some of which are detailed below, cater for all tastes. However, if you fancy a family vacation or a relaxing retreat from everyday life in one of the stunning resorts, there's a great variety to choose from.
During the winter months, days are short and the temperatures are often cold. Many attractions in the countryside close for the season. However, the city museums and sights remain open, and their restaurants and theatres will be in full swing.
Visitors who travel over Christmas or New Year may enjoy these celebrations in the cities. But this is also a time when the country house hotels offer festive programs which make an excellent addition to a city break.
19th - 23rd June 2012
Ascot
If you are in England in June, you should not miss the Royal Ascot, held at one of the leading racecourses. Only the finest horses will race against each other in this famous race meeting. Maybe you will be lucky and even get a glimpse of the Royal Family who attend this spectular event. Do not forget to dress up, day dresses with hats for ladies and morning dress with top hats for men are required.
25th June - 8th July 2012
London
Being the oldest and most distinguished tennis tournament in the world, Wimbledon should not be missed, names such as Serena Williams, Bjoern Borg and Andre Agassi have become famous within this event.
27th July - 12 August 2012
London
Join the millions who will be watching this famous International sporting event . London are proud to be the hosts to the spectular summer games which only takes place every 4 years.
11- 18 August 2012
Isle of Wight
The Cowes Week yachts races have taken place for almost 200 years. Cowes week races attract International professional and amateur sailors. Spectators take pleasure visting the buzzing sailing resort and enjoy the exciting back-to-back races as well as enjoying all the entertainment this week has to offer from shopping and dining to live music and fireworks.
3rd -13th May 2012
Belfast
The cathedral quarter festival is not to be missed. It features music, theatre, films, circus, comedy and visual arts, bringing music and words into the city.
20th Sept - 30th Sept 2012
Clifden
The Clifden Arts Festival is one of Ireland's longest-running festivals, bringing the arts to more remote parts of the country through music, dance, drama, poetry and literature. There are lots of literary readings and music, as well as a theatre, dance and visual arts programme.
4th - 7th October 2012
Cork
The yearly Cork Folk Festival showcases concerts throughout Cork by musicians, singers and dancers from Ireland, Scotland, Galicia and the USA. The festival features performances by pipe bands, fiddlers, accordionists, banjo and mandolin players, as well as a theatre, dance and visual arts programme.
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