Meet the Butler, Wimpole Hall Experience life as a servant as you meet the costumed butler and his staff. Illumination of village, funfair, music, and children’s entertainment Derwent Gardens, Matlock Bath, Derbyshire (01629 55082). 4 September Paint the Garden, Somerset Come to this painting workshop and hone your artistic skills. All materials are provided and the formal gardens created by Gertrude Jekyll at this National Trust moated mansion will inspire the whole family Barrington Court, Somerset (01460 243121)..

Matlock Bath Illuminations and Venetian Nights, Derbyshire Parade of decorated and illuminated boats, cliff-top fireworks display. North of England Open Air Museum, Beamish, Co Durham (0191-370 4000). Sheepdog trials, Surrey Shepherds from far and wide congregate at this National Trust mansion house Two trials will take place, culminating in the championship Polesden Lacey, Surrey (01372 452048). Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens, Newcastle upon Tyne (01661 881636). 3-4 September Caravan Extravaganza, Cottingham Static, touring and mobile homes and their accessories, plus band and funfair. The Lawns, University of Hull, Harland Way, Cottingham, Humberside (01276 686654).

Chatsworth Country Fair, Derbyshire Bands, clay-pigeon shooting, hot air balloons, parachuting, gundogs and the Household Cavalry musical ride Chatsworth House, Bakewell, Derbyshire (01246 565300). Prize Leek Show and Harvest Festival, Beamish Traditional countryside event at a recreated colliery village. 3 September Braemar Gathering, Aberdeenshire Dating back 900 years, the show includes heavy and track events, piping and Highland dancing Tickets must be booked in advance. Princess Royal and Duke of Fife Memorial Park, Braemar, Ballater, Aberdeenshire, Scotland (01339 755377). Vintage Car Show, Newcastle upon Tyne Models from the 1920s to the 1970s. Bath and West Showground, Shepton Mallet, Somerset (01749 822200). 2 September-6 November Blackpool Illuminations World’s greatest free light show along a six-mile stretch of promenade Promenade, Blackpool (01253 478222).