Here are some of our favourites.
Alfstock
Ardington House, Oxfordshire
This fabulous family festival — which throngs with cabaret acts, funfair rides and street-food stalls — is back for a second year. Set up in memory of Alfie Bartlam, who died aged seven in 2019, the festival’s express aim is to raise money for research into paediatric brain tumours. Trust us: this is the jolliest and most fun way possible to donate to a worthy cause. June 11. Book it.
Petworth Summer Festival
Petworth, West Sussex
For almost three weeks in July, music makers from around the globe grace the stages of various venues in the charming market town of Petworth in West Sussex. Expect classical music, jazz, folk, roots, theatre and some comedy, too. A highlight this year includes a performance by the latest cohort of remarkable young musicians at The Yehudi Menuhin School. July 12 – 29. Book it.
Edinburgh International Book Festival
Edinburgh College of Art
The hottest date in Scotland’s publishing calendar, Edinburgh attracts the world’s greatest literary stars. Festival Director Nick Barley, who is coming to the end of an impressive 14-year tenure, says: ‘As well as helping maintain Edinburgh’s role as a global capital for culture, I have aimed to create a festival that is full of joyful encounters: a forum for thoughtful conversations between writers and readers.’ August 12 – 28. Book it.
English Riviera Food And Music Festival
Torre Abbey Meadows, Devon
This brand-new four-day family event celebrates the best food and produce from the southwest region, alongside a brilliant line up of music. At the cashless festival, passionate chefs will get creative with local produce, while DJs and local artists rip up the dance floor. The rumoured headliners for the inaugural event? None other than UB40. May 26 – 19. Book it.
Wilderness Festival
Cornbury Park, Oxfordshire
Set in idyllic Cotswold parkland, Wilderness has earned its place among the greatest festivals going. The multi-arts extravaganza offers something to all ages and persuasions – but music is key. Star attractions this year include Fatboy Slim, The Chemical Brothers and Christine and the Queens. August 3 – 6. Book it.
FT Weekend Festival
Kenwood House, London
Imagine an IRL event in which the FT Weekend’s finest minds explore big ideas in culture, politics, literature, film and food – with a sprinkle of lively humour. Such is the FT Weekend Festival, which launched in 2016. Time Out says it ‘might be the cleverest festival ever’. September 2. Book it.
By Becky Ladenburg
May 2023
