From luxury dinners aboard steam trains to operatic festivals and Friday night polo, here’s six must-book August events (and where to stay in style)
1 Glyndebourne, Sussex
Opera lovers, don’t miss out on a day of serenading at Glyndebourne. As quintessentially English as it gets, this music-filled festival features world-class performers from across the globe. Just don’t forget to pack your picnic!
When: Until Aug 26, visit glyndebourne.com to book.
Where to stay
Book a room at the nearby majestic Ashdown Park Hotel and Country Club – a stunning four-star hotel that wouldn’t look out of place within an Austen novel. It’s as elegant as Glyndebourne itself.
PLUS: Click here for our expert hotel review.
2 Friday Night Polo At Cowdray, West Sussex
Escape from the city and join Cowdray for a fun-filled evening of watching polo on Friday 17th August. With street food from The Travelling Glutton plus Dough & Deer pizza, this country event is ideal for a night of sporting (and edible action).
When: Friday 17th August, £5 entry. Email enquiries@cowdraypolo.co.uk or visit cowdraypolo.co.uk to book.
Where to stay
The nearby Spread Eagle Hotel & Spa makes a quaint and charming getaway. With 39 delightful bedrooms and a modern spa housed in one of England’s oldest coaching inns, this historic hotel in Midhurst makes the ideal accompaniment to the polo action.
3 A One Night Exclusive at Chewton Glen, Hampshire
Save the date for a date night in the Dining Room at Chewton Glen. They’re e offering their delicious tasting menu for just £35 per person on Friday 17th August.
Available for one night only, enjoy spectacular views of the gardens and the sunset as your backdrop as you devour outstanding cuisine.
When: Friday 17th August, £35 per person. Book your table by phoning 01425 282212 or emailing reservations@chewtonglen.com.
Where to stay
After all that food you’re going to need a place to rest your weary head. A five star country house hotel in Hampshire, stay the night at Chewton Glen and pamper yourself with the spa facilities. Rooms here are a little unique – treehouse suite, anyone?
4 Raymond Blanc OBE’s dinner aboard the Belmond British Pullman, London
Once you’ve finished feasting, spend the night at Taj 51 Buckingham Gate, the five-star heritage hotel nestled just steps from Victoria. It’s perfectly positioned next to Buckingham Palace – with signature, individually-designed suites offering just the right dose of luxury. Make a booking here.
5 Michelin-Starred Simpsons’ Ruinart Rose Wine Dinner, Birmingham
Partial to a glass of rose? Then this upcoming summer fine dining event is a must-book. Taking place on Thursday 23rd August at the lavish Simpsons restaurant in Birmingham, the award-winning restaurant will be hosting a special Ruinart Rose Wine Dinner.
Join Michelin-starred chef Luke Tipping and his team for a 5-course menu, all complemented with a glass of Ruinart Rose Champagne. More details here.
Where to stay
Hotel du Vin Birmingham offers sleek and stylish accommodation in the heart of the city. Situated in Birmingham’s booming financial district, the hotel is 100 yards from St Philip’s Cathedral and Colmore Row – great for a spot of city exploring the next morning.
6 Opera with Jonas Kaufman under the stars, Isle of Skye
Regarded as one of the world’s greatest tenors, Jonas Kaufmann has captivated audiences across the globe with his incredible voice. Join him this summer for a spectacular outdoor concert, captured live at Berlin’s iconic Waldbuhne amphitheatre.
The star tenor will perform famous arias and timeless Italian songs on the picteresque Isle of Skye from his bestselling album Dolce Vita, in what promises to be a magical night of music under the stars.
When: August 30, £15 per person. Visit whatsonskye.com to book.
Where to stay
