Jul
As summer winds down and the last long weekend before autumn approaches, the August Bank Holiday is the perfect time to get out and explore everything Berkshire and the Thames Valley have to offer. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a romantic weekend escape, or something active and outdoorsy, the region is bursting with events and destinations worth discovering.
At House of Fisher, we welcome guests from all over the UK and abroad who use our serviced apartments as a base for both business and leisure. With central locations across key towns in Reading, Newbury, Bracknell, Basingstoke, Farnborough, and Camberley, you’ll never be far from the action – whether it’s live music, historic attractions, or a countryside walk.
The Bank Holiday is one of the busiest weekends of the summer, and the region hosts a range of festivals and fairs to suit every taste. Here’s our guide to the best things to do over the August Bank Holiday weekend in the Thames Valley.
Experience the Electric Atmosphere of Reading Festival
If you enjoy live music, Reading Festival, one of the UK’s most iconic music events, is perfect for you. Taking place each August Bank Holiday on the banks of the River Thames, it features top international acts and is a huge draw for music fans, approx 105,000 people descend on Reading for this.. Even if you don’t have a weekend ticket, the festival buzz spreads across the town with pop-up events, food stalls, and vibrant nightlife. With our flagship 100 Kings Road and City Wall House aparthotel in Reading, we offer a great option to refresh in comfort between days.
Enjoy a Weekend of Music and Community at the Wokingham Festival
Held at Cantley Park in Wokingham, the annual Wokingham Festival returns with a line-up packed full of music, family entertainment, food, and drink. With tribute acts and emerging local talent on stage, there’s something to suit all musical tastes. Families will love the circus-themed kids’ zone, Charlie’s mini golf, and everyone can enjoy a huge variety of food and craft beer vendors.
Advance weekend tickets are available, with adult weekend passes priced at £60, and reduced prices for younger attendees. With House of Fisher apartments nearby in Bracknell, you’ll have a comfortable home away from the festival crowds.
A Traditional Day Out at the Swallowfield Show
Just a short drive from Reading, the Swallowfield Show offers a classic countryside fair experience. Taking place across the weekend, you’ll find more than 100 artisan stalls, live music, dog and horse shows, vintage vehicle displays, gardening exhibitions, and hands-on activities like beekeeping and blacksmithing. Kids will love the Activity Zone with circus skills and mini golf, and can meet Salsa the Megalosaurus, while food lovers can explore the local delicacies on offer.
Family Fun at Wellington Country Park’s Bouncy Castles in the Park Weekend
If you’re travelling with children, Wellington Country Park’s Bouncy Castles in the Park Weekend is a must. From Saturday 23rd to Monday 25th August, the Main Green transforms into a giant play zone, with a 60ft Danger Zone Obstacle Course,Jungle Play Zone, Toddler Castle, and sports-themed inflatables like a Basketball Shootout and Soccer Challenge. It’s a high-energy day for kids (and adults) who love to bounce.
Day tickets to the park start at £22.45 for anyone aged 2 and over.
Experience CarFest South 2025 This August Bank Holiday
Looking for a full-throttle family festival? CarFest South 2025 returns to Laverstoke Park Farm, Basingstoke, from 22nd–24th August, blending live music, classic cars, celebrity chefs, and hands-on fun, all while raising funds for UK children’s charities.
Founded by Chris Evans, this year’s festival features headline acts including Travis, Madness, Seasick Steve, and Squeeze, alongside seven themed areas such as FoodFest, AdventureFest, StarFest, and, of course, CarFest itself with its stunning vehicle displays.
Music in the Park: Live at the Bandstand in Windsor
Spend a relaxing afternoon at Alexandra Gardens in Windsor and enjoy Live at the Bandstand, a free community event featuring the fantastic Windsor Ukulele Band on 23rd and It’s A Swing Thing on 24th August. Bring a picnic blanket, snacks, and soak up the summer sounds between 2–4pm against the backdrop of the River Thames and Windsor Castle.
It’s a perfect low-key way to enjoy the sunshine and some fantastic local talent.
With so much happening across the Thames Valley, why not make it a proper weekend escape?
The August Bank Holiday is the ideal opportunity to unwind, explore, and enjoy the best of what the Thames Valley has to offer. From historic castles and countryside walks to live music and riverside picnics, there’s truly something for everyone. With so much to do across the weekend, many visitors find that one day simply isn’t enough.
So whether you’re enjoying a countryside fair, dancing to live music, or simply relaxing in a riverside park, let House of Fisher be your base this Bank Holiday.
Each of our centrally located properties offers fully equipped kitchens, spacious living areas, and all the comforts of home.
For the best available rates, always book directly at www.houseoffisher.co.uk or call our friendly reservations team on 01189 514151 and make the most of this August Bank Holiday.