The best events, anniversaries and activities in 2020
From milestone anniversaries to huge cultural events, there’s plenty for everyone to enjoy on a UK break in 2020. And if you fancy enjoying a brilliant break, you can book next year’s accommodation with cottages.com.
125 Years of the National Trust – January 2020
Not just protecting national heritage and the environment, the National Trust have been improving holidays and days out for decades. Celebrate this huge achievement by visiting one of the National Trust’s many attractions. From stately homes and gorgeous to breath-taking natural beauty, there’s so much to enjoy in some of the country’s most scenic settings.
Scotland’s Year of Coast and Waters
Scotland always offers something to celebrate but will be focussing on its coast and waters in 2020. With boating, kayaking and fishing for intrepid explorers, plus fantastic seafood and waterside settings for those seeking more peaceful pursuits, there really is something for everyone. It’s well worth heading to the ‘River of Light’ on the River Clyde in October, where illuminated vessels will be creating an amazing spectacle.
The Mirror and the Light – March 2020
The final part of Hilary Mantel’s stunning Thomas Cromwell novel trilogy will be released in spring 2020, following the double-Booker winning pair of Wolf Hall and Bring Up the Bodies. Visit one of the many locations associated with the tales. Lacock Abbey in Wiltshire is the perfect place; not only did it feature as the exterior of the hall in the BBC series, but it was sold by Henry VIII following the dissolution of the monasteries.
Take a look at our guide to Wolf Hall’s locations.
Wales Year of the Outdoors
2020 in Wales is all about getting out and exploring the gorgeous green countryside, with a whole host of events complementing the breath-taking natural beauty. There will also be a whole host of surprises, such as hosting the extreme Nitro World Games for the first time ever outside of the USA.
Bond is Back – April 2020
Filming for Daniel Craig’s double-o-swansong No Time To Die took place around the beautiful Ardverikie Estate in Laggan, the Highlands of Scotland. Allegedly including a high-speed car chase, you can take your own four-wheeled tour and soak up all that scenic beauty for yourself.
Take a look at our guide to the best Bond locations.
England’s Coastal Path – 2020
The opening of the longest managed and waymarked coastal path in the world is something to celebrate. Spanning the entire length of the English coast, you won’t have far to travel for scenic seaside sights and amazing walks.
Wordsworth’s 250th Birthday – April 2020
Celebrate the 250th birthday of one of England’s most celebrated Romantic poets. Described by Wordsworth as ‘the loveliest spot that man hath ever found’, Grasmere is the perfect place to begin your exploration and find your own inspiration. The poet’s Dove Cottage still stands and is open to visitors seeking their own inspiration.
Tenet – July 2020
No stranger to mind-bending movies, and stunning cinematic entertainment, director Christopher Nolan returns with his biggest film yet. Little is know about Tenet, except it is reputedly the biggest budget standalone film ever, and it filmed in the Solent off the coast of the Isle of Wight earlier in 2019. Book your break early to enjoy your own breath-taking island adventure.
Brighton’s living coast
The Brighton and Lewes Downs is a UNESCO World Biosphere Region comprised of ‘Downs, Towns and Coast’. Amongst beautiful beaches and rolling hills, you will find plenty of scenic beauty and loads to enjoy in the inland areas – including the brilliantly vibrant Brighton itself.
Charles Dickens – 150 year anniversary
Few writers have had as big an influence as Charles Dickens. This is why the writer is being celebrated 150 years after his passing. 2020’s anniversary year will see Dickens celebrations all over the country, but The Charles Dickens Museum in London is the place to be, with all kinds of events programmed. The former home of Dickens, it was here that the author wrote Oliver Twist, The Pickwick Papers and Nicholas Nickleby, so there really is no better place to celebrate and share the author’s inspiration.
Doctor Who returns
The wait for Jodie Whittaker’s return as the thirteenth Doctor is eagerly awaited following her sterling work in series 11. While you await the 2020 air dates, why not take a trip to Doctor Who’s spiritual home of Cardiff? You will find filming locations for the previous series, and maybe even experience a few from series 12. Even if you’re not a dedicated ‘Whovian’, you will find plenty to enjoy on the Cardiff waterfront.
Cumbria’s hidden coast project 2020
All eyes will be on the lesser-seen side of Cumbria in 2020 as a recreational route running from Whitehaven to Millom opens. With scenic trails, art installations and much more, holidaymakers will find a perfect complement to the seaside scenery. And with the many charms of the Lake District on your doorstep, you won’t be short of amazing activities.
