From the world’s longest coastal trail to an iconic summer regatta: The 2026 events to plan a UK holiday around

The experts at Sykes Holiday Cottages have rounded up five events you won't want to miss.

Discover everything from spring openings to autumn exhibitions, and a summer regatta marking two centuries of sailing history.

Walk the King Charles III England Coast Path

This spring marks the full opening of the King Charles III England Coast Path, a brand-new long-distance trail that will link England's entire shoreline in one continuous route - set to be the longest coastal trail in the world.

The path stretches from Northumberland down through Cumbria and all the way to the southwest, connecting seaside towns, sandy beaches and clifftop trails along the way. Walkers eager to get going don't need to wait – large portions are already accessible, including an 87-mile stretch in Cornwall running from Newquay to Penzance.

This section is stunning, with golden beaches, dramatic cliff faces and plenty of coastal pubs perfect for a well-earned pit stop.

Celebrate 200 Years of Cowes Week

Cowes Week is turning 200 in 2026, with a special bicentenary regatta running from August 1 to 7 on the Isle of Wight.

Taking place in the Solent waters off Cowes, this week-long event is one of the world's oldest and most respected regattas, attracting experienced sailors and curious day-trippers alike. Expect racing action throughout the day, a buzzing harbour atmosphere and loads of entertainment on shore.

Explore Herefordshire

Film fans can wander through the rolling countryside and Tudor villages of Herefordshire, which doubles as 16th-century England in the current Hamnet adaptation starring Paul Mescal.

Based on Maggie O'Farrell's bestselling novel, filmmakers chose Herefordshire over Stratford-upon-Avon for its timeless charm, with Weobley village recreating Shakespeare-era streets.

Celebrate Winnie-the-Pooh's 100th Anniversary

October 14, 2026, will mark 100 years since Winnie-the-Pooh first appeared in print, and celebrations honouring the world's most famous bear will run throughout the year.

Ashdown Forest in East Sussex – the landscape that inspired A.A. Milne's beloved stories – will host centenary events and family activities, giving children the chance to follow in Christopher Robin's footsteps through the real-life Hundred Acre Wood.

See the Bayeux Tapestry at the British Museum

History fans are in for a treat as the Bayeux Tapestry arrives at the British Museum from September 2026 until July 2027.

This 70-metre embroidered masterpiece depicting the Norman Conquest hasn't been displayed in Britain for nearly a millennium.