Events and Festivals
"Nor will I then thy modest grace forget,
chaste Snow-drop, venturous harbinger of Spring"
From February to December there are festivals and events on in the rural towns and country houses of South West Lincolnshire (also called South Kesteven.) From Snowdrops in the Spring to Science festivals in the autumn, a trip to South Kesteven is full of surprises. Here are some of our favourites:
Spring
In February, the snowdrop brings the joy of spring across churchyards, villages and parks. For a full on experience you can visit Easton Walled Gardens to see great drifts of snowdrops and indulge in Galanthomania.
March and April are filled with a plethora of events as the area welcomes spring. Traditional events include an international music festival and the mid-Lent fair in the beautiful, ancient stone-built town of Stamford. Meanwhile, in the picturesque Deepings, a fairly new literary festival is attracting big names.
Spring is one of our most busiest times so we highly recommend if you are coming from further afield and want to see our snowdrops blooming, we have accommodation where you can stay in our luxury cottages and experience the grounds at your own leisure.
Summer
July kicks off with the Sweet Pea Season at Easton Walled Gardens, attracting thousands of visitors to take in the scent and sight of hundreds of sweet peas in full bloom. John Clare, the great rural poet, is celebrated in mid-July at the John Clare Festival in Helpston and the month finishes with popular Burghley Film Festival.
In August, the action moves south to Rutland Water for Birdfair. A huge event that has been described as ‘The birder’s Glastonbury’ – birdwatching at Rutland Water is worthwhile all through the year and this event celebrates the reservoir’s success.
Burghley House hosts the first of two food fairs in August and, if you miss this event there is plenty of food available at Burghley Horse Trials at the end of the month. Our cottage lets are only a 20 minute drive from Burghley House where you can visit the local attractions knowing you have a base not too far away.
Autumn
The Corby Glen SheepFair, held annually in the Lincolnshire village of Corby Glen, boasts a rich history dating back to 1238. That year, King Henry III granted the village a charter to hold a weekly market and an annual sheep fair, establishing a tradition that has endured for centuries.
Over the years, the fair has evolved from a primarily agricultural event into a vibrant community festival. While the traditional sheep sales remain a central feature, the fair now encompasses a variety of activities and attractions. Visitors can enjoy live music, artisan market stalls, classic car displays, and family-friendly entertainment, including funfair rides and food festivals. These additions have transformed the fair into a celebration that honours its historical roots while embracing contemporary festivities.
The fair’s longevity is a testament to the community’s dedication to preserving its heritage. Each year, volunteers and local organisations come together to organise the event, ensuring that the traditions established nearly eight centuries ago continue to thrive. The Corby Glen Sheep Fair not only highlights the village’s historical significance but also fosters a sense of unity and pride among residents and visitors alike.
Winter
For Christmas activities, look out for the events staged at big country houses throughout the region. Try the websites for Belvoir Castle, Rockingham Castle, Doddington Hall, Belton House and Burghley House for Christmas highlights, candlelit tours and more dressing up! Burghley House also hosts food fairs where you can sample some of the best food from around Lincolnshire, an area already famous for its food production.
And the festive spirit doesn’t stop there—Easton Holiday Cottages also hosts a range of seasonal activities, adding an extra touch of cheer to your stay. Whether it’s a cosy winter walk through Easton Walled Gardens, a festive welcome hamper, or simply curling up by the fire after a day of exploring, our cottages are the perfect base for a magical Christmas escape.
As we put this guide together, it’s hard to believe just how much goes on in such a beautifully undiscovered part of the country. The Rutland area is bursting with things to see and do—whether it’s food festivals, farmers’ markets, open-air theatre, classic car shows, or watersports at Rutland Water. From relaxing countryside escapes to lively local events, there’s something here for every kind of visitor, all year round. We’ve spent years discovering and enjoying it ourselves, and we hope your visit is just the beginning of many more to come!
Here are some quick links to the rest of our local guide: