Visit the Cuckoo Fair
Maypole and Morris dancing, crafts and fairground rides celebrate an ancient spring tradition at Wiltshire’s Downton Cuckoo Fair
What’s the sign spring has arrived for you? In a particular corner of Wiltshire, they know spring is here when the Cuckoo Fair rolls into the town of Downton, celebrating the arrival of the cuckoo – and accompanying good weather – with the start of spring. Spring fairs have been held here since the 13th Century and today the Cuckoo Fair attracts up to 20,000 people each year. Don’t miss the ceremonial opening of the gate to let the cuckoo through into the fair, – which kick-starts a day of springtime fun.
A sure highlight will be reliving our school days of dancing round the Maypole – and passing this typically English tradition onto the grandchildren. Then when you’ve worn yourself out, sit back and watch Morris dancers, a local brass band and other entertainers liven up the streets.
For the little ones there’s more old-fashioned fun in the form of a traditional Punch and Judy Show, clowns and fairground rides and to round off the day, there’s the annual crowning of the Cuckoo Princess and Cuckoo King.
Tuck into a taste of Wiltshire in a giant marquee where you’ll find hundreds of local food and drink producers, including a special farmers’ market, with rural craft demonstrations for all the family to try. And what’s more… it’s all free!
■ the Downton cuckoo Fair is in Downton near salisbury, Wiltshire, on may 5. For more information visit www.cuckoofair.co.uk or call Visit Wiltshire on 01722 323036
Linger for longer…
You can’t come to this part of Wiltshire without visiting its most famous landmark, Stonehenge. But while you’re in the area you might also want to see the spectacular Salisbury Cathedral and the 18th Century Mompesson House. Make a weekend of it with a stop-over at the beautiful Victorian Grasmere House Hotel set on the banks of the River Avon and Nadder.