Finding the perfect getaway during school breaks can be difficult, as UK school employees and parents are well aware of. Consider scheduling your holiday this year around some of the most exciting international sporting events that take place during UK school holidays. There is something for everyone, from sports and cricket to rugby and football. Here is a list of some of the most exciting events you can go to, each of which offers a distinctive experience and slots neatly into the school holidays.

MAY 2024, HALF TERM

Football: FA Cup final in England (London, UK)

Football fans certainly won’t want to miss the 2024 English FA Cup Final, which will take place on 25 May, in London at Wembley Stadium. It is the most prestigious cup in English football and is always a spectacle. This year it’s a Manchester derby as Manchester United take on Manchester City. When not at the game, London provides more than enough for tourists to spend a fantastic weekend.

French Open tennis (Paris, France)

Tennis lovers can attend the prestigious French Open from 20 May to 9 June 2024. Sale of general admission begins in March. While you are in the city and in between tennis matches, visit the world-renowned Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, or stroll through the quaint alleyways of Montmartre. Or, save your trip for later in the year and visit during the Olympics in the summer!

SUMMER HOLIDAYS 2024

Grand Prix of Hungary (Hungaroring, Hungary)

On July 20/21, 2024, experience an adrenaline surge at the Hungarian Grand Prix. This event, which will take place at the famed Hungaroring, promises to be memorable with cars travelling at 200 mph whizzing past you. This F1 season is set to be epic so don’t miss out on all of the action in Hungary!

Grand Prix of Belgium (Spa-Francorchamps, Belgium)

On July 27/28, 2024, take in the thrilling Belgian Grand Prix at the storied Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps. As well as enjoying the atmosphere of an F1 weekend, be sure to visit the beautiful city of Brussels, home to sights like the Atomium, Manneken Pis, or the Royal Palace, in addition to the competition.

If these opportunities aren’t enough to get your F1 fix then you can also visit the Netherlands on 24/25 August and Italy on 30 August / 1 September.

Test match between England and Sri Lanka in men’s cricket (London, UK)

The England vs. Sri Lanka test match will be played at Lord’s in London from 29 August – 2 September, 2024. When not at the game, consider visiting the British Museum, strolling through the energetic Camden Market, or seeing a West End performance at one of London’s renowned theatres.

The Hundred (Cricket): Various around England and Wales

On Tuesday 23 July, 2024, Oval Invincibles and Birmingham Phoenix will play in the first game of The Hundred at The Oval in London. It’s a Double Header so spend the day in (hopefully) glorious summer sunshine watching some great men’s and women’s cricket. The finals are to be held at Lord’s in London on Sunday 18 August, 2024. The Hundred has quickly become one of the biggest cricket events in the country and also provides an exceptional atmosphere for cricket fans and families alike.

Tennis Grand Slam: US Open in 2024 (New York City, US)

Tennis fans can witness top-tier players compete at the US Open at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York City from August 26 through September 8, 2024. Visit famous sites during your stay, such as the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, or take in a Broadway performance in crowded Times Square. All while getting your fix of high-quality tennis.

2024 Paris Olympics (Paris, France)

Mark your calendars for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, taking place from 26 July to 11 August. This global event will showcase the world’s top athletes competing in various sports. While in Paris, enjoy the city’s world-renowned art, architecture, and cuisine. Visit the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the charming Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighbourhood, or indulge in some delicious French pastries at a local patisserie.

Don’t forget that the Paralympics will follow and these take place from 28 August to 8 September. Perfect for an end of summer holiday city break combined with over 500 elite sporting events to witness!

2025 Highlights

Six Nations Rugby (Various European Cities)

Plan ahead for the 2025 Six Nations Rugby tournament during February half-term. This thrilling championship features Europe’s best rugby teams from England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, France, and Italy. As matches take place across various European cities, you’ll have the opportunity to explore iconic landmarks and experience diverse cultures while cheering for your favourite team.

2025 UEFA Women’s Championship (Switzerland)

Sixteen teams from across Europe will gather to compete in the 14th football championship and you can catch its conclusion at the end of July. Taking place from 2 – 27 July 2025, locations include Basel, Geneva and Zurich so get ready to book your flights when they are released for the best prices!

Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 (England)

It’s not often you get the chance to witness elite football and rugby in one summer holiday and this World Cup is taking place on home soil. This is the second time England have hosted the event and with venues across the country you can watch some of the 16 teams in action between 22 August and 27 September 2025.

With an array of sporting holidays during the school holidays, it’s never been easier to combine your love for sports with unforgettable travel experiences. Whether it’s football, cricket, or athletics, there’s something for every sports enthusiast during these school holidays sports events. So, start planning your next adventure and create lasting memories while attending some of the biggest and best sporting events in the world!

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