25 fantastic free events to attend in July 2026

Jim Johnston/WWTDiscover the delights of the Dragonfly Festival

Nationwide, held at all nine WWT centres, dates vary, starting in early July.

Marvel at colourful dragonflies at the WWT Dragonfly Festival, which returns this summer at all nine WWT centres. Suitable for all ages, enjoy nature-inspired fun with hand-on activities and events, such as family pond dipping, adventure play, macro photography, and creative workshops.

You can also take a guided walk to learn more about these fascinating wetland insects. Check each WWT centre for the full schedule and event dates.

As a Boundless member, you and up to five children can enjoy unlimited access to all nine WWT centres, plus 50% off for one additional adult guest. Find out more about Boundless membership and how to join.

PexelsJoin the Big Butterfly Count

Nationwide, 17 July – 9 August

See how many butterflies you can spot by taking part in Butterfly Conservation's annual nationwide citizen science survey, the Big Butterfly Count. Butterflies aren’t just beautiful – they play a crucial role in our ecosystems and provide vital indicators of declining biodiversity and all the data gathered is used to support ongoing conservation efforts.

Simply spend 15 minutes observing in a sunny spot, such as your garden, balcony, or local park and count the butterflies and day-flying moths you see. There’s a free, easy-to-use downloadable ID chart to help identify different species – and even if you don’t spot anything, your observations provide valuable data to help conservation efforts.

Getty ImagesDon’t be late for Alice’s Day

Oxford, 4 July

Oxford transforms into a Wonderland for the annual Alice’s Day, so why not dress up as your favourite character and join in the fun? Venture down the rabbit hole into the immersive Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland festival and embark on a magical journey through areas of the city that inspired Lewis Carroll’s classic children’s tale.

This year’s theme is Snarks, Rhymes & Riddles to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Lewis Carroll’s nonsense poem The Hunting of the Snark, and there’s a packed programme of mostly free activities, including immersive storytelling, trails, games, crafts, talks, tours and much more.

Getty ImagesCelebrate Pride in London

London, 4 July

Don your most colourful attire and join in with one of London’s biggest street parties at the annual celebrations for the LGBTQIA+ community at this uplifting free festival for Pride in London.

Enjoy live music on several stages, eye-catching floats, and dancing through the streets as the colourful carnival makes its way thorough central London. The main parade starts on Park Lane and will pass through Piccadilly Circus and Trafalgar Square.

Getty ImagesSpectate at the Round the Island Race

Isle of Wight, 11 July

Experience one of the world’s most iconic sailing events at the Round the Island Race on the Isle of Wight. Held annually, this spectacular one-day yacht race attracts more than 1,700 boats and around 16,000 sailors from across the globe.

Starting and finishing in the famous sailing town of Cowes, competitors tackle a challenging 50-nautical-mile course around the island’s stunning coastline. Free to watch, there are four official seaside venues to spectate or plenty of good viewing points along the coast.

Jeff Eden © RBG KewEnjoy a Tom Gates adventure at Kew Gardens

London, 18 July - 31 August

Treat the kids to a fun-filled Tom Gates EPIC adventure with this doodletastic day out inspired by Liz Pichon’s bestselling books and TV series at Kew Gardens this summer holiday.

Explore a lively activity hub packed with crafting activities, games, a giant interactive doodle wall, live performances from DogZombies and a code-cracking woodland tree trail. This event is included with garden entry, and you can pick up an activity guide with a trail map which includes a ‘Totally Terrific Tree Trail’ as well as extra activities to do at home.

Don’t forget to visit the interactive Children’s Garden and the Treetop Walkway while you’re there for even more fun.

Boundless members get unlimited annual access to Kew and Wakehurst. Members also get 50% off entry for an additional adult, free entry for up to five children and a 10% discount in the Kew shop, both online and in store.

PexelsCheer on competitors in the World Snail Racing Championships

King’s Lynn, West Norfolk, 18 July

Ready, steady… slow! Join in the fun at the World Snail Racing Championships at Grimston Cricket Club, Congham. Part of the Summer Big Bash free community event, this unique event features high-octane snail races, a Family Fun Day, the Mark Redhead Memorial Cricket Match and live evening music.

Snail entry is free – simply bring your own racing snail or hire one from the famous stables. Heat winners will compete for the coveted World Championship title later in the day.

Getty ImagesBrowse stalls at the Exeter Independent Market

Exeter, Devon, 25 July

Admire crafts made by local makers and hunt for vintage treasures in the heart of the South West at the Exeter Independent Market. Taking place on Cathedral Green in Exeter, this charming market celebrates the region's makers with homemade craft stalls, vintage treasures, and delicious locally produced food and drink.

Listen to local buskers and musicians for free with a refreshing drink or ice cream, followed by a stroll through Exeter’s historic quarters.

PexelsSee the red arrows at Wales Airshow

Swansea, 25-26 July

One of the biggest free events in Wales, watch the skies over Swansea Bay fill with dramatic displays from some of the world’s top military and civilian aviation teams during the Wales Airshow.

This incredible airbound spectacle is visible along the entire five-mile stretch of the bay, while on the ground, there’s a packed programme of attractions including an interactive military village, trade stands, children’s entertainment, a funfair, and much more. See the full schedule of events on the website.

Conway River Festival, Roger MillwardMake a splash at Conwy River Festival

Conwy, 3-5 & 9-11 July

Celebrate Conwy’s rich maritime heritage over two exciting weekends in July with the Conwy River Festival annual regatta weekend and the famous LA-LA Rally to Caernarfon.

Watch as experienced sailors race sailing and rowing boats in the open waters at Conwy Bay in front of the Quay and castle. The day also includes free nautical-themed games, activities and live entertainment as part of the Quay Day. Later in the month, the LA-LA Rally to Caernarfon sees sailors tackle the mighty waters of the Menai Straits.

Getty ImagesEnjoy live entertainment at Bristol Harbour Festival

Bristol, 17-19 July

You’re guaranteed a ‘gert lush’ day out at the annual Bristol Harbour Festival – an eclectic three-day celebration of music, dance and live circus performances. Held around the bustling waterfront, enjoy performances at venues around the harbourside, including Underfall Yard, Thekla and M Shed. Catch performances from some of the city’s most exciting emerging artists, including Abs, Laura Dia, Mulimba and Sam Scott alongside more established acts.

Out on the water, don’t miss the high-energy jet ski stunts – and the brilliantly bonkers cardboard boat race.

WWTDavid Lindo’s 20th anniversary birdwatching walk

WWT Llanelli, 25 July

Join experienced birder and WWT Vice President David Lindo on this free bird walk at WWT Llanelli to celebrate his 20th anniversary as The Urban Birder.

During this fascinating walk, David will share expert knowledge on birdwatching and highlight key species to spot. This event is suitable for birdwatchers of all abilities and entry is included with general admission. Please note that advanced booking is required – visit WWT Llanelli website to book your space.

David Lindo will also be carrying out talks at other WWT sites. Book on for Arundel on 7 July and Slimbridge on 21 July, as well as Llanelli.

As a Boundless member, you and up to five children can enjoy unlimited access to all nine WWT centres, plus 50% off for one additional adult guest. Find out more about Boundless membership and how to join.

PexelsCars in the Valley

Worcestershire, 23 July

Enjoy an evening out with like-minded motoring enthusiasts at the Cars in the Valley monthly meet-up held at Shelsley Walsh Hill Climb. This spectacular motoring event brings together hundreds of classic cars, motorbikes, and scooters from across the country.

From a 1913 Model T Ford and 1916 Stanley Steamer to gleaming Rolls-Royces and sleek Maseratis, you’ll find plenty of classic vehicles to admire. Got a vintage vehicle of your own? Exhibiting is free if it was registered in 1930 or earlier. Entry costs just £5 for visitors or is free for Midland Automobile Club members.

If you’re passionate about classic vehicles and would like to take part in displays and events, then the Boundless Classic Vehicle Group is a great way to connect with other car enthusiasts.

Getty ImagesBirmingham Jazz & Blues Festival

Birmingham, 24 July - 2 August

Listen to the soulful sounds of jazz and blues as the Birmingham Jazz & Blues Festival takes over the city. Now celebrating its 42nd year, the festival brings live music to more than a hundred venues, including bars, shopping centres, parks, libraries, trains and trams. Enjoy 179 performances, talks, workshops, and film screenings over 10 days – most of which are free (in 2025, there were a whopping 166 events completely free, alongside some ticketed performances). View the 2026 schedule to see what’s on.

Getty ImagesSouth Tyneside Festival

South Shields, throughout July

Grab a cold drink and enjoy world-class live music this summer with friends and family at the South Tyneside Festival. Singalong to big names like Chesney Hawkes, ABC and local 80s legends Nuromantica at Bents Park, which hosts a series of free or low-cost open-air concerts. For families, there’s also a free colourful carnival parade and dancing on Saturday 11 July, with lively performances and activities in the park afterwards.

Prefer something more classical? Pack the Pimms and a comfy chair and sit back and relax at Proms in the Park, a leisurely afternoon of orchestral performances on Sunday 12 July. There's lots more on, check the full festival calendar to plan your visit.

Getty ImagesCelebrate Leeds Pride

Yorkshire, 18 & 19 July

A highlight of Yorkshire’s LGBTQIA+ calendar, Leeds Pride is one of the region’s largest and most vibrant celebrations. Each year, the city celebrates the LGBTQIA+ community with a diverse line-up of free performances in Millennium Square and a colourful parade through the heart of Leeds. You’ll also find market stalls selling delicious food and drink and unique crafts from local traders, charities and community groups.

Getty ImagesLoch Lomond Summer Fest

Balloch, 4-5 July

Tuck into delicious food and drink on the spectacular shores of Loch Lomond at Summer Fest, a two-day celebration of fresh local produce with cooking demonstrations by top chefs. For family fun, there’s also live music and a funfair if you fancy a swirl on the Waltzers. Entry is free, although you may find yourself tempted by the food on offer.

Getty ImagesVisit the Scottish Vintage Bus Museum

Fife, 8 July

Meet other members in the Edinburgh & Lothians Group on this fascinating visit to the Scottish Vintage Bus Museum. Located on a 49-acre site near Dunfermline, the museum features more than 100 historic buses, trains, a horse tram, and other historic transport exhibits on the 49-acre site.

This event is for Boundless members only and costs £8 per ticket.

This event is open to all Boundless members. Not yet a member? If you're working in or retired from the public sector or civil service, Boundless has two great membership options to choose from: Boundless and Boundless Plus. Enjoy unlimited access or discounted entry to many of the UK’s top attractions, as well as year-round deals on restaurants, holidays, shopping and much more.

WWT and Ben AndrewVisit the reopened WWT Caerlaverock

Dumfriesshire, from 2 July

Explore the recently reopened WWT Caerlaverock on the stunning Solway Firth. Designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, this internationally important wetland features salt marshes, mudflats and wet grassland and is home to hundreds of birds, including large flocks of overwintering birds, mammals, dragonflies, newts and toads.

As part of the reopening, the reserve aims to offer a simpler, more immersive experience focussing on habitats, species and seasonal spectacles. Open Thursdays to Saturdays, enjoy excellent wildlife spotting from the hides and observatories. Please note that there is no longer a cafe or shop on-site, although picnic spots are available.

Check the WWT Caerlaverock website for the latest ticket and membership information.

Boundless membership includes unlimited access to all nine WWT centres throughout the UK. Find out more about Boundless membership and how to join.

PexelsCelebrate Ulster-Scots culture at Hairtlan Festival

County Down, 11 July

Explore Ulster-Scots heritage at the immersive Hairtlan Festival in Kilkeel, County Down, which celebrates the rich history of Northern Ireland. Entry is free to this family-friendly event and includes a lively day of traditional music, storytelling, arts and crafts, Highland games, historical re-enactments and interactive activities for all ages.

In the evening, the festivities continue with the colourful 11th Night Pageant, live entertainment, a beacon-lighting ceremony and a spectacular fireworks display.

Getty ImagesEnjoy live music at the Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival

Edinburgh, 17–26 July

Immerse yourself in ten memorable days of world-class music as the Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival fills Scotland’s capital with the soulful sounds of jazz and blues.

Showcasing outstanding artists from around the globe, this lively festival features everything from classic bebop and boogie-woogie to blues-rock, samba, swing and soul. Some events are ticketed, but you can also enjoy various free performances in iconic venues across the city.

Getty ImagesExplore HMS Caroline with Arts Pass

Maritime Mile, Belfast, Wednesday to Sunday in July

Step aboard HMS Caroline, Belfast’s remarkable floating museum and the Royal Navy’s last surviving ship from the Battle of Jutland. Located in the historic Titanic Quarter, this former warship brings over a century of naval history to life through immersive exhibits and interactive displays.

Explore recreated living and working spaces, including the Captain’s Quarters, Engine Rooms and Sick Bay, and discover the ship’s varied roles from the First World War to its decommissioning in 2011. Entry is free for Boundless Plus members using National Arts Pass.

The National Art Pass gives Boundless Plus members free or discounted entry to hundreds of museums and galleries, historic places across the UK, including 50% off major exhibitions, a subscription to Art Quarterly magazine and Art in your inbox e-newsletters.

The women who flew for Hitler

Online, 14 July

Join historian and author Clare Mulley for a fascinating online talk, exclusively for Boundless members, exploring the extraordinary true story behind The Women Who Flew for Hitler.

Discover the lives of Hanna Reitsch, Hitler’s fiercely loyal star test pilot, and Melitta von Stauffenberg, a brilliant aeronautical engineer who became linked to the 1944 plot to assassinate him. Through courage, ambition and conflicting loyalties, these pioneering women rose to the top of Nazi Germany’s aviation programme before finding themselves on opposite sides of history.

Don’t forget to stay until the end for the chance to win a copy of Clare’s acclaimed book.

PexelsThe Future of Holidays

Online, 21 July

Celebrate the joys of slow travel with bestselling author Dan Kieran in this entertaining online talk for Boundless members. Over three decades, Dan has embraced the scenic route, from childhood coach holidays and overnight European train journeys to crossing England in a vintage electric milk float.

Blending travel writing, storytelling and philosophy, Dan explores how slowing down can transform our experience of the world and challenges us to rethink our relationship with time. Remember to stay until the end of the talk for the chance to win a special prize.

Getty ImagesCreate your own garden wetland with WWT

Online, 28 July

Calling all gardeners! Join Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust (WWT) for this practical online event and discover how to create a wildlife-friendly wetland, such as a small nature pond, in your own garden. You’ll learn how wetlands, such as those managed by WWT centres, can boost biodiversity and support wildlife.

Guided by a WWT expert, you'll learn practical tips on creating your own wetland, planting and maintaining a thriving habitat, while exploring the benefits wetlands bring to birds, amphibians, pollinators and other species. There’ll also be a chance to ask questions specific to your own garden and climate.

For inspiration, why not visit one of WWT’s wetlands? Boundless membership includes unlimited access to all nine WWT centres throughout the UK.