Kettlewell Scarecrow Festival 2025: Everything You Need to Know

Every August, the beautiful town of Kettlewell in the Yorkshire Dales turns into a magical place full of handmade scarecrows for one of England's most charming rural festivals. Families, photographers, and curious explorers are welcome to the Kettlewell Scarecrow Festival 2025, which features imaginative displays, themed pathways, and welcoming village hospitality.

In addition to the scarecrows, there will be great music, handmade cuisine, local crafts, and beautiful walks. This guide has everything you need to know for a day trip or a weekend stay, from how to get there and what to bring to accessibility and insider ideas for making your trip unforgettable.

Besides, we highly recommend the Jackery Portable Power Station as a portable power supply for charging electronics and devices outdoors, especially if you want to stay powered while camping here.

Overview of Kettlewell Scarecrow Festival

Hundreds of scarecrows spend a week in the charming Dales village of Kettlewell every year in mid-August. Human tourists hunt for them all, solving hints and puzzles along the way. The Kettlewell Scarecrow Festival, which has been running for nearly 30 years, is a fantastic way for the entire family to visit this delightful community in Wharfedale. Three pubs and two cafés, as well as picnic areas along the river, offer a variety of snacks. The entire event raises funds to benefit local community amenities, including the school and village hall.

The Kettlewell Scarecrow Festival started in 1994, when the people of Kettlewell decided to stage a fundraiser for the local school. Creating scarecrows for the event was a way to engage the community and showcase their artistic talents.

During the event, the whole village turns into a lively display of creative and unique scarecrows. Residents of the hamlet and local businesses create their own scarecrow displays, which are then displayed around the area for visitors to see. There are all kinds of scarecrows, from simple straw-stuffed figures to complex and hilarious ones that show different individuals, themes, and places.

People who go to the Kettlewell Scarecrow Festival can walk around the little village and follow a defined trail to see all the different scarecrow displays. People typically employ a theme for the festival in their scarecrow designs, which makes the gathering feel more linked and fun. There have been themes based on renowned films, fairy tales, historical events, and pop culture.

The festival draws hundreds of people every year who come to see the innovative scarecrow displays, take pictures, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Visitors often check out the shops, cafés and pubs in the village, which is beneficial for local businesses because it attracts more customers.

The Kettlewell Scarecrow Festival offers more than just scarecrow displays; it also offers many other fun things to do and see. These could include live music, artisan booths, children's activities, food and drink vendors, and guided walks through the hamlet and its surrounding countryside.

The event celebrates art and creativity and raises money for local organisations. The money raised supports community projects, charity, and maintaining the area's cleanliness. The Kettlewell Scarecrow Festival has gained popularity among both locals and tourists. It helps people feel like they are part of the community and shows off the village's unique character.

Kettlewell Scarecrow Festival 2025

The Kettlewell Scarecrow Festival returns to the lovely village of Kettlewell in the Yorkshire Dales on Saturday, August 9, and Sunday, August 17, 2025, converting it into a fanciful wonderland of handcrafted scarecrows. This renowned neighbourhood festival, which began in 1994 as a fundraiser for the local elementary school, now draws thousands of people every year.

This year's event will feature the same unique scarecrows, stunning landscape, delicious cakes and soup, and excellent value. You can have a great family day out without breaking the bank. In fact, if you bring a picnic, the entire day would cost around five dollars for the whole family.

There are card readers in the village hall and at the vendors, making the event quite high-tech. Please note that internet access may not always be available in the parking lots, so it's advisable to have some cash on hand to cover your expenses throughout the day.

Date and Time:

Dates: Saturday, August 9 – Sunday, August 17 2025

Car Park Hours: 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. daily

Village Hall Refreshments: 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. daily

Theme:

This year's theme for youngsters is magical and mystical, while adults are challenged to create scarecrows themed around festivities and festivals.

Highlights:

Scarecrow Trail: Follow a 3km track through the village to see over 100 inventive scarecrows, ranging from classic children's characters to modern figures. Trail sheets are available for £1.

The Village Hall Café: It serves homemade cakes, soups, sandwiches, teas, and coffees prepared by local volunteers. All earnings go towards community projects.

Amenities: Kettlewell has several dining options, including a tea parlour, deli, three pubs, an ice cream parlour, and a village shop.

Things To Note Before Going to Kettlewell Scarecrow Festival

Before you go to the Kettlewell Scarecrow Festival to see the strange and interesting things, it's a good idea to be ready for a few things that can make your visit better.

This section has all the important information you need to make the most of your day in this lovely Yorkshire Dales village, from tasty homemade snacks and dog-friendly trails to accessibility services and toilet facilities. These helpful ideas can ensure that your trip goes smoothly and is enjoyable, whether you're travelling with kids, a pet, or need routes that are easy to access.

Food and Drink

An army of home bakers and assistants prepare and serve wonderful homemade cakes, soup, fresh-cut sandwiches, teas, coffees, and other refreshments at Kettlewell Village Hall, which is open daily from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. All proceeds from refreshments provided in the Village Hall benefit the fundraising effort. In addition, Kettlewell contains a tea parlour, a deli, three pubs, an ice cream parlour, and a village shop.

Is It Children Friendly?

Pushchairs should be fine on the trail path, but since the main car lot is a grassy field, you may need to leave your pushchair at the gate before heading out to find a parking spot; their stewards will always be happy to assist you.

Is It Dog Friendly?

Dog waste containers are located throughout the town, so please clean up after your dog. Well-behaved dogs that are accustomed to crowds and on a leash are welcome.

Are There Public Toilet?

There are public restrooms at the start of the scarecrow route, next to the National Park parking lot. If you need to spend a cent on the way, the village hall, pubs, and some cafés all provide restrooms; however, please consider making a purchase or donation if you use these facilities.

Are There Any Accessibility Services?

The scarecrow route is about 3 km long and follows surfaced roads around the village, making it accessible to wheelchairs and pushchairs. Some spots have a modest inclination. The National Park car park behind Kettlewell Garage offers disabled parking. The Village Hall and the National lot vehicle lot both have accessible bathrooms.

How to Get to Kettlewell?

Kettlewell, which hosts the Kettlewell Scarecrow Festival, is situated in Upper Wharfedale, part of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, making it both a lonely and attractive location. The village is mostly accessible by road, but careful preparation is advised due to its remote location and increased visitor traffic during the festival.

By Car:

Set your GPS to BD23 5QZ, Kettlewell's postcode. The village is located on the B6160, about ten miles north of Skipton and fourteen miles southwest of Leyburn. Parking is available in designated car parks, accessible daily from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. However, please note that the internet signal is restricted, so bring cash for parking and stalls, even though most other purchases can be made with a credit card.

By Train and Bus:

The nearest train station is Skipton, which connects to Leeds, Bradford, and beyond. From Skipton, take a bus to Kettlewell via Grassington. On Monday through Saturday, the Keighley Bus Company offers services 72 and 72R, which connect Skipton Rail Station to the Grassington National Park Centre.

The Upper Wharfedale Venturer and North Yorkshire County Council services (72A and 72B) then continue to Kettlewell. On Sundays and bank holidays, DalesBus provides a direct route from Ilkley to Kettlewell via Grassington, enabling weekend accessibility.

By Bike or Walking:

Kettlewell is part of many cycling and trekking routes in the Dales, making it ideal for those seeking adventure. If you're already in the neighbourhood, walking or biking into the village allows you to avoid parking hassles while still enjoying the countryside.

Parking Tips: The main car park is located on a grassy field, and stewards are available to assist families with pushchairs. However, due to the difficult ground, you may need to park first before retrieving your pushchair.

Accessibility: Disabled parking is available in the National Park car park behind Kettlewell Garage. The scarecrow route is approximately 3 kilometres long and mostly on asphalt roads, making it accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs; however, there are some modest slopes.

Where Can You Stay?

There are a variety of places to stay in Kettlewell, including three country inns, bed and breakfasts, holiday cottages with self-catering options, a wonderful campsite, and a caravan site.

Activities and Entertainment in Kettlewell

The Kettlewell Scarecrow Festival has a lot more to offer than just a trip through the hamlet. The creative scarecrows are the major draw. The festival offers a range of enjoyable activities for people of all ages, including entertainment, community events, and creative pursuits. There is always something going on besides the scarecrow path, including live music and craft stalls.

Family-Friendly Events and Shows

Along with the scarecrow path, visitors can enjoy live music, storytelling for kids, village quizzes, and fancy dress contests that add to the fun throughout the week. Most of the time, these events take place in or near the Village Hall, local taverns, and parks. The topic for the 2025 festival is "magic and mysticism" for kids and "celebrations and festivals" for adults.

Craft and Community Involvement

Local artists set up booths to sell crafts and souvenirs, including handmade items and things with a festival theme. Some years, there have been scarecrow-making workshops and community art shows where people may make their own contributions or learn about how the event's famous figures were made. These hands-on activities make people feel more like they belong and add to the festival's sense of community.

Pop-Up Food and Cultural Experiences

In addition to permanent food venues like pubs and delis, there are also pop-up vendors, tea stands, and seasonal food trucks that serve handcrafted cakes, Yorkshire puddings, and other local dishes. Many of these drinks are run by volunteers, and all the proceeds they generate go to local charities. On busy days, there are often folk performances and impromptu musical acts that enhance the ambience even further.

How to Plan Your Visit to Kettlewell Scarecrow Festival?

A little planning can make your festival experience go more smoothly and be more fun. Knowing the layout, timing, amenities, and local offers will help you make the most of your trip, whether you're just visiting for a day or want to stay overnight. This section provides valuable planning ideas to help you avoid common issues and truly appreciate the beauty of Kettlewell.

Best Times to Visit

The Kettlewell Scarecrow Festival is open every day from Saturday, August 9, to Sunday, August 17, 2025. You can park your car from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. If you want to avoid big crowds, it's best to go on a weekday or early in the day. Trail activity is highest on weekends, especially from mid-morning to early afternoon.

Tickets and Trail Access

You don't have to pay to get into the festival; however, trail maps cost £1 and are available for sale at various points of entry to the town. These maps help people find their way along the 3km scarecrow trail, which runs through the hamlet and features more than 100 themed exhibits. All of the money goes to help the town's buildings, such as the school and the village hall.

Where to Stay and Eat

There are several places to stay in the village, such as country inns, bed and breakfasts, a caravan park, and a campsite. During festival week, hotels fill up quickly, so it's best to reserve early. The Village Hall café, the tea room, local pubs, and a deli all serve food and drinks. Many of these places serve meals made at home by volunteers.

Connectivity and Facilities

There are card readers at most stalls and at the Village Hall; however, the village's internet connection is not very good, especially in the parking lot. It's a good idea to bring cash, especially for parking and rural merchants. There are public restrooms at the National Park parking lot and in various stores and cafés. When using private restrooms, it's nice to make a small purchase or donation.

What to Bring to Kettlewell Scarecrow Festival?

If you want to enjoy everything the Kettlewell Scarecrow Festival has to offer, it's best to be ready. Packing a few things can make a big difference, whether you're going to Yorkshire in bad weather, taking kids for a walk, or travelling with dogs. This is a helpful list of items to bring for comfort, convenience, and a day filled with memories.

Essentials for the Trail

Visitors should wear comfortable shoes for walking the trail and clothes that will keep them dry, since the weather in the Yorkshire Dales can change quickly. The 3km track is paved, but it also features some sloping and grassy sections, so you'll need shoes with good grip. It's advisable to have a fully charged phone or a printed map, as cell phone signals can be weak in certain areas.

Food, Drinks, and Seating

There are food kiosks and cafés, but the family will have a lovely time enjoying the view if they bring a picnic blanket and lunch. The best places to have a picnic are by the river. Having a reusable water bottle, snacks for kids, and cash for modest transactions will make your day go more smoothly.

For Families and Pet Owners

Families with young children should consider purchasing lightweight pushchairs with good suspension, as the ground may be uneven. Dogs are allowed, but they must be on a leash. There are trash cans all across the hamlet. Don't forget to bring dog treats, bowls of water, and bags for waste.

Portable Power Stations

If you're going to be out all day or taking a lot of pictures and movies, a portable power station like the Jackery Explorer 240 v2 or Jackery Explorer 500 can be quite helpful. These small, quiet machines let you charge phones, cameras, and other small gadgets while you're on the go. This is especially useful in Kettlewell, where there are few power outlets and limited mobile signal coverage.

Jackery Portable Power Stations for Festivals

Like many community-focused events, the Kettlewell Scarecrow Festival often takes place in charming, picturesque locations that might not have readily available grid power. This is precisely where a Jackery Portable Power Station becomes an invaluable asset. While scarecrow festivals aren't typically "music festivals" in the traditional sense, they are still outdoor events with diverse power needs.

Many community festivals feature local artisans and food vendors. Often, these stalls are set up in fields, village greens, or streets without power outlets. Jackery can power:

Payment Systems: Crucial for modern cashless transactions (card readers, tablets for POS).

Lighting: To illuminate products or menus, especially if the event runs into the evening.

Small Appliances: Low-wattage coffee machines, blenders for smoothies, mini-fridges for drinks, or slow cookers for hot food samples (ensure the appliance wattage is within Jackery's output limit).

Display Elements: Any animated or lit displays that draw minimal power.

The following are the working hours by using the Jackery Explorer 240 v2 and 500.

(*The working hours are only for reference; the actual working hours depend on your usage.)

Jackery Explorer 240 v2

The Jackery Explorer 240 v2, with its 256Wh capacity and 300W (600W surge) AC output, is a highly practical and accessible portable power station. For community events like the Kettlewell Scarecrow Festival, which are often spread across a village or outdoor space with limited traditional power, the 240V2 is an excellent choice for a variety of specific, lower-power needs.

Lightweight and Compact: At only 7.94 lbs (3.6 kg), the Explorer 240 v2 is incredibly easy to carry by hand, sling over a shoulder, or place in a small bag. This is crucial for navigating a spread-out festival like Kettlewell, where you might need power at different points along the scarecrow trail, at a specific stall, or for a pop-up activity.

Preserving the Atmosphere: The Kettlewell Scarecrow Festival thrives on its charming, quiet, and community-focused atmosphere. The last thing you want is the noise and fumes of a gasoline generator disrupting the peace. The 240 v2 operates completely silently and produces zero emissions, making it perfect for use near attendees, performance areas, or in village settings.

Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Option: When paired with a compatible Jackery SolarSaga solar panel (like the 40W Mini), the 240 v2 can be recharged directly from the sun. This makes it a truly off-grid and renewable power solution, aligning with environmental considerations and offering a positive image for the festival.

Jackery Explorer 500

The Jackery Explorer 500, with its 518Wh capacity and 500W (1000W surge) AC output, offers a significant upgrade over smaller models like the 240 v2. This makes it considerably more versatile for a community festival like Kettlewell Scarecrow Festival or larger music festivals. It strikes a good balance between increased power and maintaining reasonable portability.

Longer Runtime for Essential Devices: With 518Wh, the Explorer 500 provides significantly longer operating times for laptops, phones, and other small electronics compared to the 240 v2. This is crucial for multi-day festivals or long event hours where constant power is needed and recharging opportunities might be limited. Festival staff operating laptops for registration, information, or media can rely on it for extended shifts.

Enhanced Comfort and Amenities: You can set up a more robust public charging station capable of simultaneously charging multiple phones and tablets for attendees, improving their experience. For attendee comfort, especially if a specific area needs air circulation on a hot day or a small heater for chilly evenings (ensure heaters are low-wattage).

Highly Portable and Convenient: Weighing approximately 13.3 lbs (6.04 kg), the Explorer 500 remains very manageable for a single person to carry and manoeuvre. This portability is key for events like Kettlewell, which are often spread across a village.

Other Scarecrow Festivals

Scarecrow festivals take place throughout England for around a week each summer and again in late fall. You will be given a map to guide you through the tiny towns and villages where these events typically take place. There are themed scarecrows around every corner, on garden lawns, porches, and driveways. Some dress up as cartoon characters, while others dress up as characters from popular television shows. There will be historical and political figures present.

Although scarecrows are ancient, the celebrations began in the mid-1990s. The first took place in Urchfont, a remote village, and the celebrations have since expanded throughout the United Kingdom.

Scarecrows were originally fashioned to protect crops from birds and other pests. Farmers previously asked children to chase away creatures that threatened their crops. However, following the Great Plague of 1348, there were not enough children to complete this mission. Farmers devised a remedy by building scarecrows out of straw and wood with faces carved out of turnips or gourds.

Scarecrow festivals are now held in villages around England to celebrate the summer and autumn seasons. Residents demonstrate their abilities by constructing scarecrows out of whatever materials they can find and exhibiting them outside their homes and on the streets. Tourists can visit the scarecrow path and judge the scarecrows created by the residents.

Scarecrow festivals can be challenging to locate if you do not know where to look. Most villages that host them do so every year, with just local promotion. You'll need to keep an eye out for local indications and tips from knowledgeable folks. Scarecrow festivals are one of the best ways to celebrate the autumn season. They're also a great dog-friendly Halloween activity to do with your companion.

Where You Can Find Other Scarecrow Festivals:

Alvechurch

Barton Mills

Belbroughton

Bromyard

Flamstead (Herts)

Hayling Island

Heather

Kettlewell

Kington Langley

Wray Village

FAQs

The following are frequently asked questions about  the Kettlewell Scarecrow Festival:

1. Where is Kettlewell scarecrow Festival?

Kettlewell Scarecrow Festival is dedicated to Britain's best scarecrow festival, held in Kettlewell, near Skipton, North Yorkshire, in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.

2. Which festival is known as scarecrow Festival?

Bambanti festival. Every fourth week of January, the province of Isabela, Philippines, hosts the Bambanti Festival, an annual cultural and thanksgiving celebration. Isabela's Scarecrow Festival is a week-long celebration and the province's largest festival.

3. What is shown at the Kettlewell Festival?

Every year, for one week in mid-August, hundreds of scarecrows visit the charming Dales village of Kettlewell. Human visitors attempt to locate them all by solving hints and puzzles as they hunt.

4. What is the scarecrow trail?

Visitors can follow a trail of inventive scarecrows, developed and built by local residents, that are displayed throughout the village. They can also enjoy refreshments given by community groups, churches, taverns, and a café.

Final Thoughts

The Kettlewell Scarecrow Festival is more than just a local event; it's a fun way to celebrate community, creativity, and the beauty of the countryside. The experience is both fun and heartwarming, whether you're solving trail clues with youngsters, eating cake in the Village Hall, or taking pictures of pop culture scarecrows.

It's a great summer event in the Yorkshire Dales, thanks to its beautiful scenery, family-friendly activities, and positive impact on the community. Plan ahead, pack smart, and savour the one-of-a-kind ambience of this exceptional event. You are also helping Kettlewell's active community by sponsoring the event.