Top Picks for a St George’s Day Getaway

St George’s day is a traditional feast day celebrated by cities and nations where St George is the patron saint. The 23rd April falls on a Sunday this year, which is ideal for making the most of events happening across the country. You can soak up some culture in Leicester, or stuff your face in London, become a knight in Richmond Castle, or learn about how George slew the the Dragon at the fortress in Dover. There is something for everyone this St George’s Day, so we’ve compiled a list of the best events for 2017!

Feast of St George, Trafalgar Square

See one of London’s most iconic landmarks decorated top to bottom with red and white to honour the patron saint. Festivities kick off with traditional morris dancing, followed by music and themed games. To top it off, celebrity chefs are giving mouthwatering cooking demonstrations. If you like what you see – don’t fret, stalls and tents around the square are selling traditional English grub for hearty knaves and maids.

For those needing some interactivity and kids games, the festival isn’t limited to Trafalgar Square. Parks throughout the city are playing host to actors in medieval costume and live jousting events, so you can indulge in some ancient sporting action. The Feast of St George is free to attend with stalls selling delicious food and drink. Whether you are a tourist or a local, enjoy an atmosphere like no other this St George’s Day, in one of the greatest capital cities in the world.

St George’s Festival, Leicester

The St George’s area of Leicester was once the industrial hub of the city and has regenerated in recent years to become Leicester’s cultural quarter. To cement its place as the heart of Leicester’s heritage and enterprise, the Saint George’s Festival welcomes actors playing knights and princesses throughout the day that are guaranteed to get imaginations running wild. If that doesn’t thrill you, every year St George slays the Dragon in Market Square to a roaring crowd. Even more festivities, including arts and circus skills workshops, folk music and face painting, make Leicester an ideal family day out this 23rd April.

English Heritage events

English Heritage have preserved England’s greatest cultural assets for over a hundred years, and this means they know how to hold an authentic St George’s Day celebration. The good news is there are several venues to choose from across the country. If a genuine medieval atmosphere is your top priority, English Heritage hold events on the grounds of medieval castles maintained by the charity. Where better to get a feel for chivalry than a centuries old battlement, where real jousting tournaments have taken place in the days of yore? Chivalric sports, falconry, jesters and tea parties are to be found at:

• Beeston Castle, Cheshire

• Dover Castle, Kent

• Kenilworth Castle, Warwickshire

• Richmond Castle, North Yorkshire

• Warkworth Castle, Northumberland

• Wrest Park, Bedford

Wherever you happen to be in the country, there is an enjoyable and affordable day out waiting for you this St George’s Day. Wave those flags, wear a silly hat, paint your face and let’s get patriotic!

Gatwick Car and Van Rental are the leading hire company for customers in need of car hire at Gatwick Airport. Our quality cars and vans are under four years old, so you are guaranteed a safe and reliable vehicle to get you where you want, when you want. Our trusty vehicles are matched by our dependable and friendly staff who are happy to talk to you about our great offers before you book. To find out more about our services, get in touch with us today.