2026 is set to be a landmark year for Tewkesbury Borough, blending its deep-rooted medieval heritage with fresh cultural celebrations. Whether you are a history buff, an art lover, or looking for a family day out, the borough offers a unique mix of riverside charm and world-class events.
Here are 6 must-do activities in Tewkesbury Borough for 2026:
2026 is set to be a landmark year for Tewkesbury Borough, blending its deep-rooted medieval heritage with fresh cultural celebrations. Whether you are a history buff, an art lover, or looking for a family day out, the borough offers a unique mix of riverside charm and world-class events.
Here are 6 must-do activities in Tewkesbury Borough for 2026:
Mark your calendars for Thursday, 18 June to 21 Sunday, June 2026. This brand-new festival brings together some of the UK’s most renowned historians and authors. The schedule is packed with fascinating talks ranging from royal mysteries to architectural wonders.
Highlights from the 2026 Program:
Join Alison Weir (The Boleyn Secret) and Matt Lewis (Princes in the Tower) for deep dives into England's most famous monarchies.
Don't miss Suzannah Lipscomb on Sunday evening or Kate Lister's exploration of social history on Saturday.
From Piers Taylor discussing architecture to Kassia St Clair exploring the Secret Lives of Colour, there is something for every curious mind.
Widely regarded as the largest free medieval re-enactment in Europe, the Tewkesbury Medieval Festival returns on 11 and 12 July 2026. The Re-enactment: Watch thousands of knights and soldiers recreate the decisive 1471 Wars of the Roses battle on the original site.
Explore a massive living history camp where you can see medieval crafts, cooking, and combat training up close.
The town is draped in heraldic banners, and the streets fill with musicians, jugglers, and traders.
No visit is complete without stepping inside this 900-year-old Norman masterpiece. In 2026, the Abbey continues to be a hub for world-class music and art.
Experience the ethereal sounds of The Sixteen as they perform works by Spanish Renaissance masters. Climb the largest Norman tower in existence for panoramic views of the Gloucestershire countryside and the Malvern Hills on a tower tour. Visit the grave of Edward, Prince of Wales, who was killed during the 1471 battle.
Tewkesbury is famous for its hidden geography. You can pick up self-guided trail maps Heritage Centre or go on a guided tour from the :
The Battle Trail: A 45-minute walk that takes you through the key locations of the 1471 conflict, including the Bloody Meadow.
The Alleyways Tour: Explore over 30 narrow medieval alleys that weave between the town's famous black-and-white timber-framed buildings.
Located just a short drive from Tewkesbury town in the village of Winchcombe, Sudeley Castle is a jewel of the borough.
It is the only private castle in England to have a Queen buried in its grounds—Katherine Parr, the final wife of Henry VIII.
Look out for Knight School for children in the summer and the spectacular Spectacle of Light toward the end of the year.
Tewkesbury sits at the confluence of the River Avon and the River Severn. When the weather gets warmer in 2026, there is no better way to see the borough’s natural beauty than from the water.
For an active summer afternoon,why not try paddleboard hire and taster sessions. If you're an experienced paddler, launching from the Lower Lode provides a serene view of the Abbey from the water.
Catch a seasonal boat tour with Severn Leisure Cruises from the back of the Abbey or near the Marina. You'll get a unique perspective of the town's skyline and local wildlife.
For a slower pace walk across the Abbey Meadow to the Severn Ham. This ancient water meadow is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and is the perfect spot for a quiet riverside picnic.
