The Cotswolds is set to host some of the best events in the country this year so to ensure you don’t miss out, we’ve picked out three events you need to mark in your diary
As the sting of winter starts to make way for the clearer skies of spring, the annual social calendar is starting to fill up. As ever the Cotswolds is set to host some of the best events in the country this year. Covering everything from horse racing and country shows to off-time beats at the annual jazz festival, our humble country has a feast of entertainment over the coming months.
So, to ensure you don’t miss out on any of the best action, we’ve picked out three events you need to mark in your diary.
Cheltenham Festival
Taking place between March 14 and March 17, so if you want to join the action then you’ll need to get yourself a ticket now! Naturally, if you want to partake in a little betting (there will be around £150 million wagered this year), planning ahead is crucial. Fortunately, instead of going in blind and having to fight your way to the front of the queue ahead of a race, you can ante up via the Internet.
Using your desktop or mobile before a race starts, you can place your Cheltenham bets online. Not only that, but you could even get a free bet or two. For example, at William Hill, a newbie can get £20 in free bets after placing an initial stake of £10. So, even if you do plan on attending, don’t forget to take your phone with you and get a little extra value.
Cheltenham Jazz Festival
Kicking off on April 26 and running through until May 1, the annual Jazz Festival will not only be the 21st anniversary of the event, but it will be the biggest yet - as it’s also the 100-year anniversary of jazz. Taking place in a tented village in Cheltenham’s Montpellier Gardens, the festival will have something for all ages.
For the hardcore fans, the Jazz Arena will showcase the best rising talent, while the main stage will play host to some of the biggest artists in the world. With renowned jazz performer Jamie Cullum drafted in as the artistic curator, the 2017 line-up could be the best ever. Laura Mvula, Jack Savoretti and Will Young will get the juices flowing, before Gregory Porter, Ben Folds and Rick Wakeman take to the stage.
The Magic Flute
For something even more sophisticated, The Magic Flute will be shown between July 13 and July 22. One of Mozart’s finest operas, this melodic story of mankind moving from chaos to enlightenment is the perfect way to enjoy a summer’s evening. Indeed, the Longborough Festival Opera House is one of the finest opera houses in the UK and this year the organisers expect all six shows to sell out the 500-seater venue.
One of the main draws this year is the return of conductor Anthony Negus. A titan in the world of British opera, Negus will be working alongside director Thomas Guthrie and Royal Opera House designer Ruth Paton to produce what promises to be a memorable production. Tickets go on sale on March 6 and start from £47. However, with just six performances planned, you’ll need to be quick if you want to attend this world class event.
So there you have it. Although we’ve not managed to cover everything that’s set to take place in the Cotswolds this year, the three events we have picked out are certainly top drawer. Indeed, with interest from people both inside and outside the county, it’s safe to say that all three events will not only be hugely entertaining, but show off the Cotswolds in all its glory!
