45+ things to do in 2024

2024 celebrations and anniversaries

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Enjoy famous paintings in your hometown when the National Gallery loans some of its most famous works to 12 venues throughout the UK, as it turns 200 in 2024. With all exhibitions opening on the same day in May, see works by Rembrandt, John Constable, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, and Sandro Botticelli at locations including Cambridge’s Fitzwilliam Museum, Liverpool’s Walker Art Gallery and Brighton Museum and Art Gallery.

When? From 10 May 2024

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Calling all sweet-toothed folk…take the whole family to Cadbury World, the home of British chocolate, and learn how this quintessential British success story began 200 years ago. To celebrate, 2024 will be full of chocolatey goodness with a new attraction in the works, alongside cocoa-themed rides, afternoon teas, immersive storytelling and a mouthwatering, behind-the-scenes peek at how the famous treats are made.

When? Throughout 2024

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If you’re a fan of the Fab Four, take the long and winding road to The Liverpool Beatles Museum during the run-up to the 60th anniversary of A Hard Day's Night release date on 10 July 2024. In addition to this treasure trove displaying curiosities like unseen video footage, the band’s original guitars and flamboyant Sgt Pepper outfits, you can also expect excellent tribute acts, memorabilia exhibitions and themed tours at several of the city’s musical venues.

When? July 2024

Tour the grounds of Villa Park, home of Aston Villa F.C to celebrate 150 years since its founding in 1874 by four members of the Aston Villa Wesleyan Chapel. The club is yet to announce its 150th anniversary programme, but expect big events, exhibitions and fan celebrations.

When? Throughout 2024

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Combine a day at the races with celebrating a national institution; the 100^th anniversary of the esteemed Gold Cup race at Cheltenham Festival will be commemorated with top-notch hospitality, breathtaking sprints and a ‘Parade of Champions’ to celebrate the horses, trainers and jockeys that have pioneered racing over the past century.

When? 15 March 2024

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Naval enthusiasts can learn how this Kent-based dockyard built and repaired Britain’s warships, providing an important base for the country’s maritime and wartime history. After closing in 1984, the yard was transformed into a visitor attraction, offering tours as the official filming location for BBC’s Call the Midwife.

When? Summer 2024

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Take a telescope and a warm coat as you explore the most ‘pristine dark skies’ in England. A must-visit for stargazers and astronomers of all ages, 2024 marks 10 years since the whole of Northumberland National Park and most of Kielder Water & Forest Park became England’s first International Dark Sky Park. Learn about myths and legends, spot far-away planets and learn how to take high-quality photos of the night sky at one of Kielder Observatory's popular group events, suitable for the whole family.

When? Throughout 2024

Join a kaleidoscopic celebration of food, music and dance at Preston’s Caribbean Carnival in Moor Park, which turns 50 in May. The bank holiday event recognises the region’s Caribbean diaspora and culture and this year’s is expected to be the biggest yet. Enjoy flamboyant parades, sizzling street food, irrepressible rhythms and daring costumes.

When? 27 to 28 May 2024

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Step aboard the North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR) Pullman Moorlander steam train in 2024 to celebrate 45 years of the opulent Pullman dining experience while meandering through the dramatic North Yorkshire Moors landscape. The onboard three-course menu includes artisan bread, spring vegetable soup, Yorkshire pork and pearl barley risotto. Top off your meal with a trio of desserts or opt for a selection of cheese and biscuits.
 
When? From 10 February 2024

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Visit Sir Winston Churchill's birthplace of Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire, which will announce a series of commemorative exhibitions and events throughout the year as well as celebrations at Chartwell in Kent, Churchill’s home of 40 years. If you’re in London, check out the Churchill War Rooms, inside the secret Whitehall bunker where his government ran Britain’s wartime strategy.

When? 30 November 2024

The oldest anniversary on our list and a real hidden gem, this ancient monastic church dates back in parts to 600 AD, such as the Saxon crypt and apse (a recess). Look out for the magnificent Phelps Organ, which celebrates its 50th birthday at Hexham in 2024 and plays a central role at the Abbey, used for services and large recitals. Watch this space for concerts in 2024, where the organ will have a starring role. 

When? 1 July 2024

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Join in the countrywide celebrations honouring the 80 years that’ve passed since the hard-won D-Day landings in Normandy, ensuring the Allied forces victory. These will include military parades, exhibitions and ceremonies. In Portsmouth, The D-Day Story will hold several events, as will the Imperial War Museum. At IWM Duxford, enjoy a very special summer air show to commemorate the anniversary. 

When? 6 June 2024

Museum openings and exhibitions in 2024

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Fashionistas, assemble! Blenheim Palace's biggest exhibition in its 300-year history will showcase the works of world-famous British designers. With designs by Barbour, Lulu Guinness, Stella McCartney, Temperley London, Vivienne Westwood and Zandra Rhodes all set to appear, this is a veritable who's-who of British fashion royalty. Admire archive drawings, patterns and prototypes, and marvel at glittering couture and catwalk pieces while learning how British fashion influences the world.

When? 23 March 2024 to 30 June 2024

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If you’re missing the pink-hued chaos of The Barbie Movie, fear not as the iconic fashion doll turns 65th birthday in 2024 and a huge exhibition awaits her fans at the Design Museum in Kensington. Learn how this cultural phenomenon has evolved through the decades and the doll’s influence on fashion, architecture, furniture and more.

When? 5 July 2024 to 23 February 2025

Rock out at a concert at this magnificently renovated art deco building – formerly the Bradford Odeon – when it reopens in 2024 as a grand new entertainment venue with a 3,800-person capacity. As well as music, you can expect a full calendar of comedy and family entertainment. This new cultural hub promises to “bring the beat back to Bradford”.

When? To be confirmed

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When this impressive Norman fortress reopens in summer 2024, you will be able to climb up to the castle’s Keep – made accessible for the first time in the castle’s history. Enjoy sweeping views of Norwich and its other medieval buildings as you ascend to the top. The renovation also includes a new glass atrium for uninterrupted views of the East façade and Bigod Tower, immersive experiences, plus a new restaurant, shop, and accessible toilets.

When? Summer 2024

Cheer on ‘The Toffees’ aka Everton Football Club in their new stadium at Liverpool’s Bramley-Moore Dock. With a capacity of over 50,000, this new base will also host concerts and festivals. For the foodies out there, visit the new ‘Fan Plaza’ where you can enjoy the many restaurants and bars, no matter your budget.

When? Autumn 2024

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Step back in time to the new and improved Black Country Living Museum, thanks to a £30 million renovation project. Stroll down the new high street and experience the sights and sounds from the 1940s, 50s and 60s. Meet new historical characters, rock along to 1950s records at Stanton’s Music Shop, tuck into old-school sweets from Burgin’s Newsagents and learn about 1960s healthcare at the brand-new replica of Wolverhampton’s Lea Road Infant Welfare Centre. Think of it as Call the Midwife, right here in Dudley!

When? Now

Taking place in Manchester for the first time, the Worldwide Music Expo is celebrating its 30th anniversary and is a must for lovers of world music and underground sounds. Attracting artists from around 90 different countries, be the first to hear the latest tunes covering folk, jazz, urban and electronic sounds from across the globe.

When? 3 to 27 October 2024

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Ever wanted to catch a movie in a 1950s cinema, shop for old-fashioned toys and stay overnight in a vintage self-catering cottage? Well, now you can as Durham’s Beamish Living Museum opens a new range of immersive experiences, including a whole town set in the 1950s. It’s time to dig out those bobby socks and slap on the Brylcreem hair gel.

When? Now

Bristol’s innovative science museum is well on its way to being restored to its former glory after a fire in April 2022. We The Curious will reopen with over 300 exhibits, all designed to spark your curiosity about the world. Think anatomy, robots, food and flight. Also new for 2024, it will feature the UK’s only 3D planetarium with full surround sound, revealing extraordinary vistas from around the universe.

When? To be confirmed

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Get your jazz hands ready as Blackpool’s razzle-dazzle heritage takes centre stage at Showtown, a new museum in the Sands Venue Resort Hotel and Spa. This immersive attraction will feature interactive singing and dancing exhibits, archive photography and films, and memorabilia and costumes from the stars who made their name in this seaside resort.

When? Opening 15 March 2024

Cornish pride will be at the centre of this brand-new regatta in early summer, which hails the tradition of boat-making in the area. Every single vessel made in the Cornish town over the decades is welcome to take part in what promises to be a lively, eclectic weekend. For the landlubbers, there will be plenty of harbourside activities – including live music, entertainment, market stalls and street food.

When? 14 to 16 June 2024

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This new music festival will bring the best of Britain to Cheshire’s Ashley Hall Fairground, with camping, glamping and day passes available. The headliners have already been announced and include Scouting For Girls, Kim Wilde and Heather Small – plus support from Toploader, Fleur East and Starsailor. There’ll also be traditional food, craft workshops and artisan shopping stalls to check out between sets.

When? 5 to 7 July 2024

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Only occurring on a leap year, this charming, if eccentric, tradition returns to Talberds Ley Park in Essex. Thought to date back to 1104, this unusual festival sees spouses profess their love before a ‘judge’ and ‘jury’ (comprising ‘six maidens and six bachelors’) – and if believed, they are granted a “flitch" (half a side) of bacon - and are carried through the streets in a procession on the ancient Flitch Chair. Don’t miss out, as it won’t return until 2028! 

When? 13 July 2024

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Budding gardeners and city dwellers, this one’s for you. Head to Manchester’s former railyard depot for a new horticulture festival all about urban gardening, showing you how to make the most of every balcony, backyard and bathroom shelf. The line-up includes expert masterclasses, Q&A sessions, themed workshops and the chance to buy plants and seeds from the country’s finest growers.

When? 18 to 21 April 2024

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There’s no need to fly out to the Balearics to party in summer 2024, as Classic Ibiza - a 32-piece orchestra with live vocalists and DJs ­– is coming to Maldon, Reading, Cheltenham, Northampton and Windsor - plus more to be announced - for a set of spectacular daytime festivals. It promises star-studded headliners, family-friendly entertainment, and a fun-filled festival vibe.

When?

• Maldon: 7 June 2024
• Reading: 14 June 2024
• Cheltenham: 27July 2024
• Northampton: 10 August 2024
• Windsor: 17 August 2024

More dates and locations to be confirmed.

Celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2024, this event has become one of England’s most vibrant literature festivals. Watch out for creators from different parts of the literary community who will make an engaging programme this summer. You can expect readings, music, theatre, cultural discussions, lectures, and family events.

When? 28 June to 7 July 2024

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A must-visit for cheese fans, this new food festival is centred around the British Cheese Awards, where you can see and taste some of the award-winning entries. Take some time to peruse and try delicious food and drink from the different stands, all representing the best food from South West England. Please note that judging for the British Cheese Awards takes place the day before, on 22 March 2024.

When? 23 to 24 March 2024

Strap on your walking boots and zip up your waterproof jackets (just in case!). Returning for its 10th year, the three-day Corsham Walking Festival invites you to discover miles of picturesque landscapes, with a range of walks for everyone to enjoy, varying in distance from 1.5 to 16.5 miles. Start from Corsham and explore walks in ancient parishes and manor houses, industrial and rural heritage, wildflowers, hidden valleys, meandering brooks, and far-reaching views.

When? 9 to 11 June 2024

Food, drink and shopping

Explore artisan shops and independent restaurants in Raby Castle’s newly refurbished and opened heritage buildings. Known as The Rising, this new retail hub is due to open in spring 2024; enjoy fine dining at the Vinery Café Restaurant, stock up on homemade treats at farmers’ stalls in the Dutch Barn and shop for eclectic fashion and homewares at the Coach House and Stables.

When? Spring 2024

If you’re in North East England this February, don’t leave without trying a stottie: a white, pillowy, soft, oven-baked bun, whose slightly chewy texture is perfect for dipping into pease pudding or making hearty sandwiches. This year will be the first ever National Stottie Week and will be celebrated by bakeries and cafes across the region – with a tasty programme of events and activities to be announced in the new year.

When? 12 to 18 February 2024

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Following its successful debut last year, Norwich Wine Week is back for 2024 and features more events, live entertainment and all kinds of wine-themed fun. Celebrating the plentiful vineyards of Norfolk, the festival showcases the award-winning vineyards, growers and wineries from across the region. The frivolities will begin with an outdoor and tented event in Chapelfield Gardens, featuring tastings, workshops and stalls before a week of activities across the city’s bars and restaurants. Make sure you soak up the alcohol with a visit to the food stalls.

When? 14 to 22 June 2024

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Staying on the wine theme, did you know that Champagne house Tattinger has transformed 69 hectares of a former Kent apple orchard into new vineyards? Welcome to Domaine & Evremond, where you can be among the first to taste the fruits of this ambitious Franco-English collaboration, planted with Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier grapes to produce top-quality English sparkling wine.

When? Harvest to be confirmed in 2024

Adding to Manchester’s vibrant food and drink landscape, Shipyard will open in the city’s St John’s neighbourhood, combining an indoor market and al fresco waterside terrace. Drawing inspiration from European food halls such as Lisbon's TimeOut Market and Kyiv's Food Market, the development will showcase both permanent vendors and rotating smaller stalls alike; watch this space for who will be appearing first. 

When? To be confirmed in 2024

One of London’s most eagerly awaited new openings, Guinness is launching a microbrewery, open-fire kitchen and rooftop bar at Old Brewer’s Yard in Covent Garden. As well as offering brewery tours with Guinness experts, it will host events in a central covered courtyard, sell souvenirs in its shops, and offer the chance to try exclusive new stouts. Slainte!

When? Winter 2024

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Shopaholics rejoice; this new premium shopping outlet will offer more than 90 fashion and lifestyle brands at 30-70% off all year round. Make a day of it at the onsite village of bars and restaurants and a full calendar of events such as street food festivals, art exhibitions and live music.

When? Spring 2024

New hotel openings

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The second London hotel in the Mandarin Oriental collection will open in Hanover Square, the oldest square in Mayfair. The new five-star hotel will provide a calming and discreet sanctuary from the hustle and bustle, with a vibrant, contemporary atmosphere. Marvel at the high-class dining and elegant rooms as you enjoy the legendary service and respect for tradition that the brand demands.

When? Spring 2024

Reopened after extensive refurbishments, this 30-bed hotel is located on the banks of Lake Windermere and now includes a contemporary space within the existing Victorian Grade II-listed building. Executive chef Michael Cole will oversee the two-AA-rosette restaurant at the hotel, serving classic British cuisine inspired by its breathtaking location.

When? December 2023

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Opening in Alnwick in spring 2024, Bailiffgate will be Northumberland’s newest luxury getaway. There will be 48 bedrooms, a bar and restaurant set across a beautiful former schoolhouse and a modern five-story building via a conservatory offering views of Alnwick Castle. The perfect place to relax after exploring the castle and its gardens.

When? Spring 2024

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Explore your wild side at this pet-friendly, eco-conscious hotel. The new Treehouse Hotel at Deansgate is like a breath of fresh country air with its nature-inspired decor and sustainable ethos. Book one of 224 bedrooms and enjoy panoramic views of the city from a rooftop terrace. The hotel's restaurant is headed up by celebrated Manchester chefs, including Luke Cowdrey, Justin Crawford and Mary-Ellen McTague.

When? Spring 2024

The new Ruby Stella hotel will open in Clerkenwell – the district where Dickens wrote Oliver Twist. Soak up the neo-Victorian surroundings – think embossed leather, burnished brass, traditional wool, and tweed furniture. This will be Ruby Hotels’ third London property, joining Ruby Lucy in Waterloo and Ruby Zoe in Notting Hill – each with a unique and playful character.

When? January 2024

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Be one of the first people to stay in one of Moor Hall’s new seven premium lodges, located within the woodlands of its Aughton estate – each with its own private outdoor terrace. When not enjoying the peace and quiet, check out the estate’s gourmet dining offering at Moor Hall Restaurant (which holds two Michelin Stars) and its sister restaurant, The Barn, awarded a Michelin Star in 2022.

When? Spring 2024

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Master builders of all ages can look forward to this new hotel complex at LEGOLAND Windsor, featuring 150 lodges and a clubhouse with a restaurant, bar and entertainment venue. Every building in the village looks as if it was built from the bricks themselves, and the development will feature immersive play areas, nature trails and the chance to become a LEGOLAND Ranger!

When? Opening 24 May 2024

Indulge in a cheeky break at the seaside, where your first glimpse of No.124 Kings Road Brighton is likely to be a restaurant and bar spilling onto the terrace right on the seafront. Inside the Georgian building are seriously comfortable bedrooms, all with fresh views and covetable curios. Swimmers can be in the sea in a hop, shoppers can hit The Lanes in minutes, and lovers of all-things kitsch can be playing in the pier’s arcades in next-to-no time.

When? To be confirmed in 2024

One to add to your 2024 bucket list is Bristol’s Guildhall, set to be transformed into a luxury five-star hotel featuring a restaurant, spa and rooftop terrace late in the year. The listed building will form part of the Hotel Gotham Group, whose Manchester property is renowned for its glitzy rooms and suites.

When? Late 2024

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A luxurious weekend awaits you at Carbis Bay's Una St Ives hotel, where 27 two-, three- and four-bedroom villas have been added to the resort. These cosy and elegant holiday homes will combine Cornish stone exteriors and Scandi-inspired décor inside. Enjoy sanctity of your peaceful ground-floor bedroom, and venture out to the landscaped gardens and your own private hot tub for some more relaxation.

When? Spring 2024