What a delight July is. From the simple joy of sunny summer walks to planning alfresco gatherings and making the most of the weather at festivals and outdoor theatre performances, we take a closer look at some of the very best things to see, do and enjoy in Gloucestershire this month.

With free pop-up short concerts around town and a host of classical music stars performing in town, there’s something for everyone from Friday 3^rd to Saturday 11^th July. We love the sound of a celebration of homegrown talent with Gloucestershire Young Musician of the Year playing alongside Gloucestershire Symphony Orchestra at Pittville Pump Room. What a treat!

2. Embrace the energy of World Cup fever

 

 

 

 

 

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The word of the month is football! Catch World Cup action as it hots up in a lively local pub with your mates or head to the big alfresco screen at Gloucester Quays. Cheltenham Town Football Club is showing England games on a 15 metre screen, with free entry and plenty of food and drink. There’s sure to be a great atmosphere and we can’t wait to see how the action plays out.

Berries are at their best in July. Pick your own at Primrose Vale on the edge of Cheltenham and let little ones loose on the playground. Or head to Hayles Fruit Farm near Winchcombe. There’s also Over Farm Market near Gloucester to stock up on some fresh goodies. Why not grab breakfast or lunch in the bustling café while you’re there.

4. Cheer on Wimbledon players and find a local court to get involved

 

 

 

 

 

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July is a brilliant month for enjoying sport. The Stroud Hotel has designed an afternoon tea inspired by the championships, while showing games live on screens. Viewers can enjoy strawberry tarts and Pimm’s while keeping an eye on the action. The tournament is a great opportunity to encourage youngsters into trying the game. Time dashing around a tennis court means plenty of fun and a fitness gains for everyone.

The newest floral extravaganza from the RHS is unveiled on Wednesday 8^th July, running through to Sunday 12^th July. It promises plenty of gardening inspiration with show gardens and experts poised to help nurture nature lovers’ enthusiasm.

We’re looking forward to exploring the creative gardens against the beautiful backdrop of Badminton Estate. Singer Will Young will be unveiling three creative gardening cubes representing the journey from shadow into light.

6. Prepare to party hard at Chalfest

 

 

 

 

 

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This friendly ‘party on the hill’, near Stroud, is headlined by Heather Small. Running from Friday 17^th  to Saturday 18^th July, other well-known musicians include Chesney Hawkes, Charlie Hedges and Tinchy Stryder. Partygoers will get to browse community stalls, there’s a fun kids’ zone, tea tent for wholesome refreshments, pop up art studio as well as specialist bars spotlighting nearby Woodchester wines, Cheltenham’s Uncommon Distillery and Weston’s cider. Get your dancing shoes on for summer celebrations in the sunshine.

Once you’ve been amazed by the speed of the incredible cyclists, why not plan a wheely good route in Gloucestershire for a day out on your bike with family or friends. Gloucestershire County Council has mapped out plenty of great cycling spots to try. Just visit https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/thinktravel/cycling/cycle-maps/ and take your pick!

8. Soak up the sounds of summer at Tewkesbury Live

 

 

 

 

 

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One of the nicest things about this festival is that it’s free! Running from Friday 24^th to Sunday 26^th July, at 20 venues across the town, there are family activities as well as live music. Soak up the sounds of rock, pop, folk, blues and punk. Keep an eye on social media to discover the latest line-up reveals. It’s a great excuse to explore the beautiful riverside town that’s at its best in the height of summer.

There’s nothing quite like an entertaining evening of theatrical drama in the great outdoors. Catch an evening of Wild Arts Opera on the beautiful Mulberry Lawn at Sudeley Castle on Monday July 13^th. Or see The Pickwick Papers brought to life with slapstick comedy at The Old Prison in Northleach on Wednesday 22^nd July.

Around the World in 80 Days is on at Postlip Hall, promising an entertaining open-air adventure on Tuesday 28^th July. Pack a picnic and dive into the adventure of a lifetime.

10. Wonder at the beauty of nature at Cotswold Lavender

 

 

 

 

 

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Spanning 45 acres at Snowshill, near Broadway, July is one of the best months to soak up the vibrant violet fields at Cotswold Lavender. It’s a special spot that don’t just look beautiful but also smells divine. Seeing plenty of bees busily visiting the blooms is heartening, too. The spectacular views across to Broadway and the Vale of Evesham will leave you feeling on top of the world. It’s the perfect place to gather family and friends to create the dreamiest Insta photo, that’ll no doubt be so spectacular, it’ll deserve a frame.