Have an Eventful Summer in South Devon

With such a wide range of events taking place in South Devon this summer we’re sure you’ll find something to keep everyone entertained. To give you an idea of the great shows, festivals and events taking place we’ve highlighted some below.

To see all the events taking place in South Devon this summer click here. 

Illustrating Harry Potter, 3rd July – 25th September

Hogwarts is coming to Hannahs. Grab your wand and prepare to hop on your Nimbus 3000, as a stunning exhibition called Illustrating Harry Potter comes to Hannahs this summer. The gallery exhibition at the Seale-Hayne site will showcase original illustrations, sketch¬es, models and final prints from the brand new edition of J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, illustrated by Jim Kay.

Midsummer Dreams Festival, 23th July – 24th July

Midsummer Dreams Festival aims to inspire and entertain all ages by bringing national touring theatre companies and artists together with regional Devon based artists to create a varied programme of exciting and original events including theatre, dance, comedy and music.

Knights and Dragons at Powderham Castle, 24th – 29th July

Join an original magical, medieval tale of knights, dragons, witches and wizards written by Pocketwatch Theatre. Themed sessions take place at specified times. Sessions run for approximately 45 to 60 minutes and are aimed for children between 5 -11yrs (and adults) of all ages.

Nation Qualifier Sheep Dog Trials – Pennywell Farm, 27th July

The National Qualifier Sheepdog Trials return to Pennywell Farm. A full day event, all included in the admission price.

Dartington International Summer School & Festival, 30th July – 27th August

Dartington International Summer School & Festival is one of Europe's leading music summer schools. Throughout August the beautiful Dartington estate hosts a daily programme of music courses and masterclasses and an evening of world-class concerts. The courses are aimed at music students, graduates, professional and non-professional musicians. The evening concert programme is open to all the public.

The Great Big Rhino Trail, 30th July – 9th October

The Great Big Rhino Project will bring a world class mass public art event to the streets, parks and open spaces of the South Devon. For 10 weeks in the summer of 2016, life-size rhino sculptures will inhabit the streets, showcasing the wealth of artistic talent in the area, while highlighting the significant conservation threat facing wild rhinos and how the local business community can make a difference.

Totnes and District Agricultural Show, 31st July

Find exciting demonstrations, displays and parades in the Main Ring and Entertainment Ring . Cattle and horses compete for showing honours and show jumping is as popular as ever. Amongst a whole host of other things, there’s a Home and Handicrafts marquee, Craft Tent, Food Hall and a large trade stands section.

Shaldon Water Carnival, 6th August

Every year the Shaldon Water Carnival Committee put on an event to rival the most eccentric of ceremonies. Somewhere between a carnival and a regatta, the Shaldon Water Carnival provides a day of creative explosions, colourful entertainment and nautical brilliance.

Wonderland at Powderham Castle, 7th -12th August

Join the Mad Hatter for tea party mayhem. Themed sessions take place at specified times. Sessions run for approximately 45 to 60 minutes and are aimed for children between 5 -11yrs (and adults) of all ages.

Gamegoer Gundogs at Pennywell Farm, 14th August

Pennywell takes on a real Country Fair feel with Gamegoer Gundogs providing dog displays throughout the day with a chance to ‘meet the stars’. Their shows include dogs, hawks and ferrets and the friendly owners will be on site all day to chat and give advice about caring for and training your own four legged friends.

Dartmouth Regatta, 25th – 27th August

The Regatta is based around a programme of rowing and sailing events, but also incorporates a busy programme of activities including air displays, fireworks, a large fair, and many other smaller events that happen in and around the town centre.

Need somewhere to stay while you enjoy these great events? Check out our Where to Stay pages.