The Best Things To Do In London This Summer

Visit An Adult Playground

Roof East in Stratford reopened in April, and will stay open all summer long. Entry is free.

Photo by Owen Billcliffe Photography.

London’s favourite adult playground is back for summer 2023, transforming over 30,000 square feet of former shopping centre car park into a rooftop bar with ideal summery festival vibes. Think fresh street food vendors, new and signature games, an open-air cinema, and picturesque skyline views to top it all off. roofeast.com

Dance At A Day Festival

Throughout summer, across London

London is alive with the sound of music: summer day festivals are back with a bang, with the likes of All Points East, Wireless and BST Hyde Park firmly on the roster for 2023. Why not boogie to Two Door Cinema Club and scream along to The Wombats at Community Presents on 7 July? Or perhaps an open air picnic concert is more your speed? If so, head to Battersea Park in Concert this August. Plus, there are plenty of open-air, festival-like performances throughout summer from the likes of The 1975, Jamie T and The Lumineers to enjoy.

Discover more amazing London festivals here

Attend A Beekeeping Masterclass

Dates from 20 May–26 August 2023 at St Ermin’s Hotel, Westminster

Busy bees underpin our ecosystem, so it’s important to learn how to help them. Why not join queen bee Esther Coles for a beekeeping masterclass this summer at St Ermin’s Hotel? From learning all about bees to bee friendly planting to ‘products of the hive’, guests can experience an up close encounter with the hotel’s 350,000 resident bees. Conclude your visit with a sparkling afternoon tea or cocktails on the summer terrace. sterminshotel.co.uk

Try Hyper-Fresh Ceviche In Seven Dials

New Opening: Crudo Cevicheria (36 Monmouth Street, London WC2H 9HA)

A brand-new, fourth Crudo venue opened at the end of May on Monmouth Street, bringing hyper-fresh ceviche to Seven Dials. Having gained a cult following for their customisable ceviche bowls, Crudo has recently elevated its offering for the evening with small plates, wine and pisco sours. Start with a hefty bowl of moreish, zesty guacamole with black corn tortilla chips while sipping a classic marg, before entering fish-ville wholeheartedly. There’s the classic ceviche bowls with the likes of sweet potato, avocado, cherry tomatoes and burnt corn (don’t miss the prawn bowl with mexicana leche de tigre and jalapeños for a fresh kick). But there are also more delicate small plates, crunchy ceviche tostadas, and spicy tiraditos. Perfect for elevating a gathering over sharing plates.

If you don’t make it down mid-week, make sure you visit for daily oyster happy hour: get fresh Rock and Native oysters for £1.50, Dressed oysters for £5, or 3 oysters with a pisco sour for £16, from 3–5pm Monday to Friday. eatcrudo.com

Idiots Assemble: Spitting Image The Musical

24 May–26 August 2023 at The Phoenix Theatre

(Image by Mark S)

It’s belly ache laughs at the critically acclaimed Spitting Image, which is making its West End debut this summer. Written by a tour de force comedy team – Al Murray, Matt Forde, and Sean Foley – it’s not to be missed. spittingimagethemusical.com

Explore An Exhibition About Ancient Luxury

Luxury and Power: Persia to Greece, 4 May–13 August 2023 at The British Museum 

Exquisite luxury, ancient Iranian opulence, and glittering, glinting gold – this exhibition by the British Museum invites you to step into the culture clash between Persia and Greece in the sixth century BC. Explore this beautiful collection of material wonders from Alexander the Great’s empire. britishmuseum.org

Discover more of London’s top exhibitions here

Or A Fashion Exhibition

Diva, 24 June 2023–7 April 2024 at the V&A; The Offbeat Sari, 19 May–17 September 2023 at the Design Museum.

OTT is in this summer – the V&A explores the fashion, power and sparkling creativity of the divas of music and film who have defined pop culture since the 19th century. From Marilyn to Elton, this exhibition will be an unapologetic love letter to star power. £20, vam.ac.uk

Or undress the contemporary sari – the Design Museum’s visually glorious exhibition explores the changing design of India’s everyday wear. £12.60, designmuseum.org

Discover more fashion exhibitions here

Celebrate Pride

Pride Month throughout June, and London Pride Parade on 1 July 2023

(c) NIM, Unsplash

Big gay celebrations – the summer marks the return of the Prides across the country. From kaleidoscopic parades to Soho after-hours, it’s just the tonic for joyful things to do in London this summer. prideinlondon.com

Kensington + Chelsea Art Trail

Throughout June, July and August 2023

West London has a secret: there’s an artistic heritage hidden just below the surface, waiting to be unearthed. The art trail, now on its sixth edition, returns – touring you from South Ken’s museum quarter through to the bustle of King’s Road. kcaw.co.uk

Seafood & Sangria Brunch

Cavo at Tottenham Court Road (The Now Building, Outernet, Denmark Street, London WC2H 0LA)

Love a rooftop terrace? Sangria? Seafood? Head to Mediterranean restaurant Cavo to enjoy its new Seafood and Sangria brunch from its suntrap terrace; only the sweeping views of London will remind you you’re not in the Med. With a set menu at £65 per person – including a jug of bubbly white sangria each – expect to tuck into spicy mussels in choux pastry, moreish beetroot hummus and refreshing mackerel carpaccio ahead of the main event: a warm seafood platter of langoustine, lobster tail, oysters, razor clams, Mazara prawns and mussels. A summery delight. cavorestaurant.com

Sing Your Heart Out At An Open Air, Sing Along Cinema

Lower Marsh Lates… At The Movies at Waterloo Lower Marsh on the last Thursday of June, July, August and September 2023

From 5.30–8.30pm on the last Thursday of June, July, August and September 2023, head down to Waterloo Lower Marsh and get ready for a belter. This free, open-air, sing-along cinema is sure to attract a crowd with its stellar line up of musical favourites. Plus, find delicious food and great drinks deals at Lower Marsh Market. wearewaterloo.co.uk

Visit The All New Young V&A

From 1 July

The Town Square at Young V&A. Image by Picture Plane © Victoria and Albert Museum London

It’s been closed for three years, but it’s back (baby). The Young V&A reopens its doors for a summer of art and design with over 2,000 works and tactile, interactive exhibitions to explore. vam.ac.uk

Spitalfields Music 2023

30 June–12 July 2023 at venues across East London

Spitalfields Music returns to East London this summer, with a programme brimming with world premieres, new music, overlooked historic pieces and classic repertoire, all performed in iconic East London locations from Village Underground to the Tower of London. See the full line up and book your tickets at spitalfieldsmusic.org.uk

Watch Wimbledon The Championships

3–16 July 2023 at the All England Club (Church Road, London SW19 5AG)

Will British No 1 seed Cameron Norrie come up trumps? Cheer him onto victory (or not) at the unmissable summer sporting event. Here are the best big screens to enjoy the action from.

Vintage Collage Workshops

23 July, 3 August, and 3, 14 and 24 September 2023 at Native Bankside, 1 Bear Gardens, London SE1 9ED

Make art from old, used and vintage paper in the surroundings of a revived warehouse with Goose Glitters. Plus, learn how to construct a collage into a cohesive piece of art and spice it up with glitter. Tickets are £49.10 per person via eventbrite.

King’s Cross Summer Sounds

9–20 August 2023 at Coal Drops Yard

London Community Gospel Choir performing at King’s Cross Summer Sounds Family Sunday, Coal Drops Yard

Summer Sounds returns to London with 12 days of music, dance and performance from across the globe. With live concerts every evening from 6.30–8.30pm (plus from 1–6pm on ‘Family Sundays’), expect a heady mix of folk, jazz, classical and experimental music, alongside an array of dancers and sensational local talent. See the full line up at kingscross.co.uk

Battersea Park In Concert

26–28 August 2023

Bank holiday weekend blues be banished: the inaugural Battersea Park in Concert trots out an incredible line-up of London’s best classical, soul and jazz performers. Highlights will include the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra and The Ronnie Scott’s All Stars. Pre-order a picnic and don’t forget the fizz. From £32.32, batterseaparkinconcert.com

Featured image: Pub In The Park.

The post Your Summer Starts Here: Things To Do In London This Summer appeared first on Country and Town House.

Edinburgh Food Festival Announces Its Line-Up

Taking place from 21 – 30 July 2023, the free-to-enter festival offers plenty of food to eat on the day and take home with you, plus a programme of live events, which take place in the al fresco Treehouse Kitchen. 

On Saturday 22 July, spice will be in the spotlight, with highlights including a tasting event with the experts from BoTree seasonings, looking at single origin spices and the stories behind them. MasterChef 2023 contestant Vijaya Kunaparaju will be leading a curry workshop for children, plus sharing her secrets on preparing the perfect dosa. Also not to be missed is a cooking demonstration from Ka Pao executive chef Sandy Browning, who will focus on pairing Scottish produce with Southeast Asian flavours.

Naturally, the environment will be a key theme throughout. Visitors can take part in workshops surrounding topics such as ethical eating, seasonality, and zero waste food – with a different focus for each day of the event. And later in the festival, Edinburgh community garden Rhyze Mushrooms will explore the importance of mushrooms in our planet’s ecosystem through a variety of workshops and cooking demonstrations. 

On the final weekend of the festival, the focus will be on wild food. Visitors can learn how to make their own kimchi and kombucha, and author and herbalist Mo Wilde will share her experience of living on a foraged diet. MasterChef finalist Sarah Rankin will also be cooking up a wild feast in the Treehouse Kitchen.

The Global Kitchen, meanwhile, will host a variety of street food stalls. Feast on chicken wings from Okanda, Lebanese falafel from The Falafel Stop, and North American-style desserts from The Funnel Cake Co. There will be plenty for vegan and gluten-free festival-goers too.

A new element for 2023 is the Producer’s Market, where you’ll be able to shop for local produce from Scotland’s finest makers. Think raw superfruit juices from Seabuckthorn Scotland, stuffed cookies from Leith-based Babyfaced Baker, Greek pastries from Lady and the Bear, and homemade cannoli from Glasgow hotspot Cannoli Get Better. All in all, you won’t go hungry.

For more information visit edfoodfest.com

The post The Edinburgh Food Festival: What To See – And Eat appeared first on Country and Town House.

Taylor Swift’s International Eras Tour: Everything You Need To Know

When Is Taylor Swift’s International Eras Tour?

Following her US tour, Taylor will kick off her international dates in Mexico on 24 August 2023. She will perform in places including Brazil, Tokyo and Singapore before coming to Europe, beginning in Paris in May 2024 and kicking off the UK leg on 7 June in Edinburgh. 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Taylor Swift (@taylorswift)

UK dates currently confirmed are:

• Friday 7 June – Edinburgh, BT Murrayfield Stadium
• Saturday 8 June – Edinburgh, BT Murrayfield Stadium
• Sunday 9 June – Edinburgh, BT Murrayfield Stadium
• Thursday 13 June – Liverpool, Anfield Stadium
• Friday 14 June – Liverpool, Anfield Stadium
• Saturday 15 June – Liverpool, Anfield Stadium
• Tuesday 18 June – Cardiff, Principality Stadium
• Friday 21 June – London, Wembley Stadium
• Saturday 22 June – London, Wembley Stadium
• Sunday 23 June – London, Wembley Stadium
• Thursday 15 August – London, Wembley Stadium
• Friday 16 August – London, Wembley Stadium
• Saturday 17 August – London, Wembley Stadium

How Can You Get Tickets?

Hopefully, you’ve already registered for tickets via Ticketmaster (the deadline was 22 June 2023). If not, find a fellow fan who has and get in their good books sharpish. Those who have registered will receive an email on 5 July 2023 stating whether they have been randomly chosen to participate in the sale. If not, all is not lost – you’ll be placed on a waitlist and may have a chance if more tickets become available.

The chosen ones will receive information on when tickets will be available, alongside a link to buy them. If you’re successful, you’ll be able to buy up to four tickets. 

Savvy fans may have signed up to the pre-sale a while back. If that’s the case, you will receive a unique pre-sale access code between 6 July at 10am and 7 July at 10am.

When Do UK Tickets Go On Sale?

According to Ticketmaster, these are the exact dates and times general sale UK tickets will go on sale.

Monday 17 July 2023

11am

London, Wembley Stadium: 21 June 2024

Edinburgh, Murrayfield Stadium: Friday, 7 June 2024

1pm

London, Wembley Stadium: Thursday, 15 August 2024

Edinburgh, Murrayfield Stadium: Saturday, 8 June 2024

3pm

Edinburgh, BT Murrayfield Stadium: Sunday, 9 June 2024

Tuesday 18 July 2023

11am

London, Wembley Stadium: Saturday, 22 June 2024

Liverpool, Anfield Stadium: Thursday, 13 June 2024

1pm

London, Wembley Stadium: Friday, 16 August 2024

Liverpool, Anfield Stadium: Friday, 14 June 2024

3pm

Liverpool, Anfield Stadium: Saturday, 15 June 2024

Wednesday 19 July 2023

11am

London, Wembley Stadium: Sunday, 23 June 2024

1pm

London, Wembley Stadium: Saturday, 17 August 2024

3pm

Cardiff, Principality Stadium: Tuesday, 18 June 2024

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Taylor Swift (@taylorswift)

What Can We Expect From The Concerts?

The clue’s in the name: the tour will document Taylor’s many different musical eras, from her old school country days to the poppy 1989 hits and mellow Evermore ballads. As seen in America, the setlist is a whopping 44 tracks long, featuring fan favourites like ‘Cruel Summer’ and ‘Fearless’ alongside plenty from her most recent album, Midnights, such as ‘Bejeweled’, ‘Karma’ and ‘Anti-Hero’. Taylor has also been adding two surprise acoustic songs on each set: so far this has included the likes of ‘Tim McGraw’, ‘Getaway Car’ and ‘Dear John’.

Is Taylor Swift Headlining Glastonbury 2024?

When Taylor first announced her tour, eagle-eyed fans pointed out that she had left a couple of key dates free. However, she has now added new dates which mean it’s highly unlikely she will perform at Glastonbury. While Glastonbury is yet to confirm its 2024 dates, the festival usually takes place on the last full weekend of June, which would mean 26 – 30 June, and Taylor is now performing in Dublin on 28, 29 and 30 June. All is not lost though: there are also headline rumours about the Spice Girls, Rihanna and Madonna.

The post Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour: Everything You Need To Know appeared first on Country and Town House.

Cocktails in the City: London’s Summer Cocktail Festival Is Back

It’s a chance to try world-class tipples from some of the capital’s best bars and bartenders, as well as take part in masterclasses, tastings and interactive games. From high-end hotels to speakeasies and buzzy new openings, the festival is designed to celebrate the trendsetting London bar scene – and being set within one square means you can get a taste of hotspots from all over the city without travelling.

This year’s line-up features names including Chotto Matte, Hutong, Nightjar and Hacha, among others. Cocktails in the City is split into three different events: Inspiration Edition from 6 – 8 July, The Travel Edition from 17 – 19 August, and A Festival of Drinks from 7 – 9 September. 

New for 2023, guests will be provided with a loyalty card in partnership with Blade Labs, where they can rate their drinks in exchange for complimentary drinks. The results will then generate audience voted winners for things like best cocktail and best overall experience.

Inspiration Edition

The first weekend of the festivities will focus on highlighting the latest cocktail trends and spotlighting innovative names. A mix of familiar favourites and new talent will feature in the events, including Zetter Townhouse, Hacha Agaveria, Blue Bar at The Berkeley, and Henson’s Bar and Social. Festival goers can also take part in workshops such as The Art of Hosting by London Essence, and ice carving with Ice Carving Cool. 6 – 8 July

The Travel Edition

This instalment of Cocktails in the City is all about escapism, featuring flavours from Mexico, Japan and more. Try cocktails from bars like Nikkei-inspired Chotto Matte, Japanese hotspot The Aubrey at The Mandarin Oriental, and Thai favourite Laki Kane. 17 – 19 August

A Festival of Drinks

Last but not least, the September event will amp up the fun element with live music, silent discos, games and more. This weekend will see Bedford Square Gardens transformed into an immersive cocktail celebration complete with spritzes and slushies aplenty, featuring appearances from top London bars like Bourne & Hollingsworth, The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town and more. 7 – 9 September

Planning a summer shindig? Groups of 12 or more can book packages with reserved seating and pre-booked activities – perfect for birthdays or work parties.

You can book tickets now at cocktailsinthecity.com

The post Cocktails in the City: London’s Summer Cocktail Festival Is Back appeared first on Country and Town House.

The Ultimate Boutique Festivals Calendar

Click on the month to skip ahead

• April: Cheltenham Jazz Festival
• May: Elderflower Fields, The English Riviera Food and Music Festival
• June: Hampton Court Palace Festival, The Grange Festival, Iford Manor Jazz Festival
• July: Henley Festival, Jupiter Rising, Bluedott Festival, Truck Festival, Summer Camp By The Good Life Society
• August: Wilderness, Boomtown, Houghton Festival, Big Feastival

The Best Small & Luxury Boutique Festivals 2023

Cheltenham Jazz Festival

When? 26 April–1 May 2023

Where? Montpellier Gardens, Cheltenham

What? One of Europe’s largest jazz festivals is returning to Cheltenham this May Bank Holiday, featring world premiers, brand new commissions, exclusive collaborations and one-off shows alongside a series of free performances at venues across the pretty town centre. Superstar vocalist Gregory Porter is the Artistic Curator for 2023, handpicking a selection of artists to perform alongside his own headline show. Expect also to hear from Damian Lewis, Laura Mvula, Gregory Porter, Will Young, MIKA, Squeeze, Tony Hadley, Van Morrison and Rufus Wainwright, alongside many more.

BOOK IT: cheltenhamfestivals.com

Elderflower Fields

When? 26–29 May 2023

Where? Ashdown Forest, Sussex

What? One of the most family-friendly boutique festivals, this Sussex-based extravaganza is designed especially with children in mind. With music, sports, nature and art, this lush festival features hot showers and a woodland spa, set in beautiful Sussex countryside.

BOOK IT: Adult weekend tickets from £159.83. elderflowerfields.co.uk

The English Riviera Food and Music Festival

When? 26–29 May 2023

Where? Torre Abbey Meadows, Torbay, Devon

What? New for 2023, The English Riviera Food and Music Festival will celebrate the best of the Southwest, across food, music and culture. Expect an eclectic mix of tasty dishes and high-quality local produce at the daily food market, talented chefs cooking up a storm live on stage, performances and interactive activities designed especially for kids and families, and a stellar mainstage lineup featuring the likes of Scouting For Girls and Rebecca Ferugson. All with a stunning beachy backdrop to boot.

BOOK IT: Exclusive pre-sale tickets start from £27.25 and exclusive pre-sale family tickets (2 adults + 2 children) £64.50. rivierafoodmusicfest.co.uk

KITE

When? 9–11 June 2023

Where? Kirtlington Park, Oxfordshire

What? This festival of ideas and music is set across seven stages at the idyllic Grade I listed Palladian house in Kirtlington Park overlooking the Chiltern Hills near Oxford. Now in its second year, expect a mixture of literature, music, politics, art, culture and comedy, with music from Pretenders, Chrissie Hynde and Hot Chip, and debates and talks from the likes of Adam Kay, Munroe Bergdorf, Elizabeth Day, and chief interviewer at The Sunday Times Decca Aitkinhead in conversation with Dame Joan Collins.

BOOK IT: Day tickets from £59, weekend tickets from £145 and camping tickets from £154. kitefestival.co.uk

Hampton Court Palace Festival

When? Throughout June

Where? Hampton Court Palace, Richmond-upon-Thames

What? Boutique festivals don’t get much better than this. Artists perform to a beautiful backdrop in Henry VIII’s open-air Base Court for an intimate audience of 3,000 at what is sure to be one of the summer’s biggest celebrations. This year’s line-up includes race Jones, Kaiser Chiefs, Björn Again and Rick Astley, with more to still be announced. It’s also the perfect festival if a picnic on the lawn pre-show is on your check-list. We’re very much in.

BOOK IT: hamptoncourtpalacefestival.com

The Grange Festival

When: Throughout June

Where? Hampshire

What? The Grange Festival is an event series dedicated to performing world-class opera in the heart of Hampshire. Located in a modern opera house, tucked away in the orangerie of the neo-classical ruined The Grange, head here if classical music is your thing, and be pleased by the added benefit of rolling parkland, the beautiful main house, and delicious delicious sparkling wine grown on site.

BOOK IT: thegrangefestival.co.uk

Iford Manor Jazz Festival

When? 29 June–2 July 2023

Where? Bradford-on-Avon

What? One of the country’s most beautiful, historic venues, Iford Manor launched a new jazz festival a few years ago. Curated by multi-award-winning jazz vocalist, Claire Martin OBE, the programme is filled with acclaimed jazz artists from all over the world, alongside rising stars. Expect performances from the likes of Ray Gelato and The Giants, alongside a whole host of food and drink offerings including a champagne bar and an open fire Argentinian asado.

BOOK IT: ilfordmanor.co.uk

Henley Festival

Henley Festival

When? 5–9 July 2023

Where? Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire

What? We’re always first in line for tickets to the country’s only black-tie music festival. The music line-up is always stellar, and this year is no different, with Rag’n’Bone Man, Westlife and Nile Rodgers & CHIC all on the cards. You can also expect comedy from the likes of Marcus Brigstocke, Jo Brand, Chris McCausland and Adam Kay – and, if it’s festival food that gets you excited, you won’t find a better culinary line-up than this one on the banks of the River Thames.

BOOK IT: henley-festival.co.uk

Fancy learning more? Learn all about Henley Festival from Jo Bausor, who’s been at the helm for over a decade, in episode #120 of Break Out Culture

Jupiter Rising

When? 14–16 July 2023

Where? Jupiter Artland, near Wilkieston, West Lothian

What? How does one make a boutique festival even more atmospheric? Host it in a stately home. Jupiter Rising is Edinburgh’s newest boutique music and art festival; Jupiter Artland, found just outside of Edinburgh, is a sculpture park full of grand art installations and sculptures. The line-up is varied and features some lesser-known artists which only adds to the unique, boutique-feel Jupiter Rising promises.

BOOK IT: jupiterrising.art

Bluedot Festival

When? 20–23 July 2023

Where? Jodrell Bank Observatory, Cheshire

What? This spacey celebration at Jordell Bank, Cheshire is a science-lovers dream. This fun fusion of music, science and the exploration of space takes place at the iconic observatory. The 2023 line-up includes headliners Grace Jones, Young Fathers, Roisin Murphy, Leftfield, and Pavement in their only show of 2023.

BOOK IT: discoverthebluedot.com

Truck Festival

When? 21–23 July 2023

Where? Hill Farm, Oxfordshire

What? This small, independent, family-friendly music festival takes place on Hill Farm in Oxfordshire. The 2023 line up stars Two Door Cinema Club, alt-j, Royal Blood, The Wombats and The Vaccines, alongside many others and an excellent food offering.

BOOK IT: Weekend camping tickets from £140. truckfestival.com

Summer Camp By The Good Life Society

When? Throughout July

Where? Hawarden, Wales

What? Over in the glorious, unusual and historic setting of the Hawarden Estate against the backdrop of two castles, The Good Life Society is back with Summer Camp, a series of micro festivals set in the estate’s Walled Garden, taking place over four weekends in July. Stepping back from larger-scale events following the pandemic, micro really does mean micro: there will be space for only 125 guests at each weekend, creating an intimate and personal atmosphere bolstered by guided foraging walks, wild swimming and self-improvement workshops.

BOOK IT: thegoodlifesociety.co.uk

Wilderness

When? 3–6 August 2023

Where? Cornbury Park, Oxfordshire

What? Expect big names in music and culture plus great food served banquet-style to accommodate chats with like-minded festival-goers; this Oxfordshire (relative) stalwart is always a favourite. With wellbeing workshops and boutique camping, there’s no need to feel wild as you reacquaint yourself with nature at Wilderness. This year’s line-up includes Underworld, Years & Years and Peggy Gou on the music side, plus chefs including Skye Gyngell, Adam Handling and Robin Gill.

BOOK IT wildernessfestival.com

Boomtown 2017, photo by Sam Neill

Boomtown

When? 9–13 August 2023

Where? Matterley Estate, Hampshire

What? As boutique festivals go, Boomtown is certainly one most highly anticipated. This multifaceted music and theatrical event is hosted at the Matterley Estate, Winchester, and previous years have featured the likes of Lauryn Hill, Prophets of Rage and The Streets. Boomtown puts equal importance on stage design and theatrical storylines, with the ‘city’ split into nine unique districts.

BOOK IT: boomtownfair.co.uk

Houghton Festival

When? 10–13 August 2023

Where? Norfolk

What? This Norfolk fest has a licence that permits music from dusk to dawn, with ‘spontaneous’ back-to-back sets, award-winning DJs and a stellar music line-up. Set amongst dense woodland with an abandoned woodland and a picturesque lake, Houghton, curated by DJ Craig Richards, is becoming one of the most exciting prospects on the festival calendar.

BOOK IT: Tickets on sale 3 February 2023. houghto­­nfestival.co.uk

Big Feastival

When? 25–27 August 2023

Where? Kingham, Cotswolds

What? Held on founder and Blur star Alex James’ farm in Kingham, the Big Feastival is a music/food festival with plenty on offer for everyone. With festival fun for all the family, little ones can enjoy the Little Dudes’ Den, pop along to the Farm Park and enjoy entertainment from children’s TV favourites. Anne-Marie, The Human League and Stereophonics are headlining this year.

BOOK IT: thebigfeastival.com

Featured image: Big Feastival

The post 2023’s Best Boutique Festivals To Book Now appeared first on Country and Town House.

The Country & Town House Responsible Buyers’ Guide

Vintage Threads Is Transforming Festival Tents Into Trendy Streetwear

Not sure what to do with your festival gear once the event has been and gone? Let Vintage Threads transform your tents into trendy new garms with its Rework programme. The vintage clothing retailer, known for its handpicked curations and quirky collections, is no stranger to breathing life back into pre-loved materials – and its Rework service allows customers to bring in old materials (clothing, tents or otherwise) to create bespoke clothing tailored to their style.

Reworked garments from Vintage Threads

The VT Rework platform already has an impressive following, with celebrities like Ariana Grande, Emma Chamberlain and Ellie Goulding all fans. The programme is also part of Vintage Threads’ zero-waste ethos, as well as its goal to make old materials ‘new’ again. This is your chance to get a one-of-a-kind piece – whether you fancy a dress, shirt or pair of shorts – that carries all of the good memories from festival season, too.

‘Rework at Vintage Threads is a very important part of what we do,’ says Freddie Rose, co-founder and owner of Vintage Threads. ‘Whether this be an old broken Gucci suitcase turned into a new biker jacket or your old festival tent turned into parachute trousers, we aim to create unique vintage pieces from your old items. During festival season, festival goers have damaged tents and don’t know what to do with them but we’re here to offer them a solution and a way to upcycle. We are able to create your outfit for the next festival season from your very own used, broken tent, fitting in perfectly with the current Gorpcore trend that our customers are loving for festival season.’

How Does The Vintage Threads Rework Programme Work?

1. Submit A Rework Request

If you’d like rework your beat-up festival tent (or any other old item of clothing), you can submit your request to the Vintage Threads team online or in person:

1. Pop the team a DM online or via Vintage Threads’ official Instagram page. See @vintagthreads_ldn for more information.
2. Take your items to the Vintage Threads store or VT stand in Selfridges and have a consultation with the team.

2. Agree On A Design

Now that you’ve got in touch with the team, the next step is collaboration. You’ll need to take your items in, and then work directly with the team to choose a redesign for your item. Once you’re happy, the in-house designer will work their magic to bring your idea to life. This is done for a fee (the team will give you an estimated rate during initial conversations), and the process can take a week or two depending on the size of the project.

3. Let The Designer Work Their Magic

Once your reworked design is ready, you can then collect your items. All that’s left to do is enjoy your completely unique clothing, tailored to you.

DISCOVER

You can browse the curated collections on Vintage Threads (as well as its Reworked Collection) at vintage-threads.com

Featured image: Krists Luhaers, Unsplash

The post Fancy Turning Your Glastonbury Tent Into A Dress? appeared first on Country and Town House.

UK Food Festivals: What To Book For 2023

• Pub in the Park
• Smoked & Uncut
• The Yorkshire Dales Food & Drink Festival
• Smoke and Fire
• The Big Feastival
• Meatopia
• North Norfolk Food and Drink Festival
• Abergavenny Food Festival
• Isle of Man Food & Drink Festival
• Scottish Wild Food Festival
• Falmouth Oyster Festival

May

Pub in the Park

Tom Kerridge’s Pub in the Park sees a top line-up of chefs and music artists touring around the country, all with one mission: to celebrate everything there is to love about the glorious British pub. The chef line-up for next year’s festival is yet to be announced, but you can always guarantee a great turnout – last year featured names like James Martin and Michael Roux Jr, plus pop-ups from numerous UK restaurants. Music is a big part of this one too, with performances from Sam Ryder, Clean Bandit, Tinie Tempah and The Jacksons on the cards for 2023.

When? 12 May – 10 September 2023

Where? Various locations across the country including London, Marlow and Bath

BOOK: pubintheparkuk.com

July

Smoked & Uncut

© Jennifer McCord

This popular countryside carnival celebrates its 10th anniversary this year, with two events taking place across the summer – one at Lime Wood hotel in the New Forest, the other at THE PIG-at Bridge Place in Kent. At Lime Wood, Angela Hartnett will be returning with her pop-up Field Kitchen, serving up seasonal Italian fare, alongside food stalls offering everything from crab shacks to BBQ dishes. And on the music side, guests can enjoy performances from an all-female line-up of headliners: Kelis, Gabrielle and DJ Harriet Rose are all confirmed. You can expect an abundance of great food, too, at the Kent event, where Razorlight is headlining.

When? 8 July and 12 August 2023

Where? Lime Wood, New Forest and THE PIG-at Bridge Place in Kent

BOOK: smokedanduncut.com

The Yorkshire Dales Food & Drink Festival

From James Martin to Gino D’Acampo, some of the UK’s top food names will be heading to the Yorkshire Dales this July for its annual festival. The family-friendly event attracts over 30,000 people each year, with over 250 exhibitors and the option to camp or glamp amid the picturesque setting. Chefs will be cooking up their favourite dishes in the theatre kitchen, and visitors can get involved themselves in one of the many workshops and masterclasses on offer. For children, there’s a special kid-friendly cooking school, a petting farm and a disco – plus a programme of live music which includes tribute acts from the likes of Katy Perry and the Spice Girls.

When? 21 – 23 July 2023

Where? Funkirk Farm, Skipton

BOOK: yorkshiredalesfoodanddrinkfestival.com

Edinburgh Food Festival

The Scottish capital is famed for its art festival, but it also hosts an excellent food event during the summer. Returning to the city this July is the Edinburgh Food Festival, a celebration of local, sustainably sourced produce showcasing traders from all over Scotland. The festival’s Global Kitchen will celebrate the country’s globally inspired food scene, with everything from Lebanese falafel to North American churro funnel cakes on offer. Alongside this, there will be food from local favourites like Mana Poké, The Buffalo Truck, Jarvis Pickle and Alanda’s Seafood Grill. You can also stock up on supplies from the daily Producers Market, and catch live events at the Treehouse Kitchen, with themes this year including ethical eating, seasonality, zero waste dining and technological trends.

When? 21 – 30 July 2023

Where? Edinburgh

BOOK: edfoodfest.com

August

Smoke and Fire

Returning to Ascot Racecourse and Promenade Park this August is Smoke and Fire, the UK’s largest BBQ festival which is now in its fifth year. A celebration of outdoor cooking, it will showcase street vendors, chefs, butchers and bakers from all over the world, taking place across two weekends in two different locations. Live demonstrations will teach guests traditional Mexican cooking techniques from Cavita, how to make the perfect jerk with Rudies London and much more, alongside pop-ups from the likes of Mediterranean restaurant Barboun and Mexican-Korean street food spot Mexican Seoul. New for 2023 is Pit Chat, where visitors will have the chance to speak with the authors of their favourite BBQ cookbooks and learn their tricks of the trade. All this can be enjoyed to the soundtrack of blues and country music, with live bands and singers performing across the weekend.

When? 5 – 6 August, and 26 – 28 August 2023

Where? Ascot Racecourse, and Promenade Park, Maldon

BOOK: smokeandfirefestival.com

The Big Feastival

c. Jenna Foxton

Always a highlight on the summer calendar is The Big Feastival, the ultimate feel-good food extravaganza which takes place on Alex James’ farm in the Cotswolds. Each year, it brings together top chefs, artists woodand producers – plus a whole bunch of hungry festival-goers – for a weekend of good food and good music. This year’s line-up has just been announced, and it’s as exciting as ever, featuring Asma Khan, Nathan Outlaw and Anna Haugh on the food side, alongside music from Sigrid, Tom Grennan and Mel C. It’s a great option for families too, with plenty of activities for little ones.

When? 25 – 27 August 2023

Where? The Cotswolds

BOOK: thebigfeastival.com

Meatopia

Now over 10 years old, Meatopia is a festival dedicated to meat, with a focus on quality and sustainability. Taking place in Tobacco Dock each year, the event sees over 60 of the world’s best live-fire chefs gather to cook up exclusive dishes over sustainably-sourced wood and charcoal, with previous names including Ottolenghi, Niklas Ekstedt and Francis Mallmann. All this is to be enjoyed alongside live music from roaming brass brands and DJs, plus craft beers and cocktails. 

When? 31 August – 3 September

Where? Tobacco Dock, London

BOOK: meatopia.co.uk

September

North Norfolk Food and Drink Festival

Norfolk’s biggest food festival returns to the Walled Garden at Holkham this September, with the aim of promoting small businesses, producers and chefs. Each year, over 12,000 visitors flock there to try some of the area’s finest food and drink, from pizzas to hog roasts, artisan coffee and Thai dishes. The popular Cookery Theatre will be returning, hosted by Andy Newman, with a line-up of the region’s best chefs primed to cook up a storm using local produce. While you’re there, it’s also worth having a wander round Holkham Hall, an 18th century Palladian-style mansion, and taking a trip to the beautiful Holkham beach.

When? 2 and 3 September 2023

Where? Holkham, Norfolk

BOOK: northnorfolkfoodfestival.co.uk

The Home of Food

Brand new for this year is a food festival from Yorkshire-based chef Tommy Banks, set to take place at Lord’s Cricket Ground in September. The line-up will feature some of the UK’s best chefs, including Richard Corrigan, Lisa Goodwin Allen and Gareth Ward, plus a banquet from Tommy’s soon-to-open Yorkshire pub The Abbey Inn. Alongside this, there will be family-friendly events including cricket taster sessions, cooking lessons and behind-the-scenes tours of the grounds.

When? 9 and 10 September 2023

Where? Lord’s Cricket Ground, London

BOOK: tickets.lords.org

Abergavenny Food Festival

Perhaps the most high-brow festival on our list, Abergavenny Food Festival is known for bringing together chefs, food businesses, farmers and food producers who flock to the historic Welsh town to enjoy talks, demonstrations and, of course, lots of delicious food. From tutored tastings to demos from top chefs, tours and forages as well as big parties, there’s something to tickle everyone’s tastebuds. 

When? 16 – 17 September 2023

Where? Abergavenny, Wales

BOOK: Tickets available from 1 April 2023, abergavennyfoodfestival.com

Isle of Man Food & Drink Festival

The excellent Manx produce is celebrated each year at the Isle of Man Food and Drink Festival, which returns this September. Over 70 producers join forces on the island, from fizz to sausages and artisan breads, alongside cookery demonstrations and live entertainment. The Manx Cookery Theatre hosts sessions on everything from preparing shellfish to Indian flavours and butchery, alongside cheese tastings and a workshop on sea salt. 

When? 16 – 17 September 2023

Where? Isle of Man 

BOOK: iomfoodanddrink.com

Scottish Wild Food Festival

Set on the beautiful Cardross Estate, The Scottish Wild Food Festival is – as the name suggests – a celebration of wild food. Visitors are invited to take part in hands-on foraging, folklore walks and craft workshops, watch demonstrations from chefs and join daily long table meals packed with seasonal, foraged ingredients.

When? 16 and 17 September 2023

Where? Tir na nog, near Glasgow, Scotland

BOOK: Ticket release date TBC, scottishwildfoodfestival.co.uk

England’s Seafood Feast

Seafood lovers will be in heaven at this festival, which takes place across the Devon towns of Brixham, Paignton and Torquay across two weeks this autumn. Visitors can enjoy seafood-focused menus, crab-cracking masterclasses and guest chef events – with a focus on fish that has been caught locally. There will also be sea shanty singers, trips out to sea, fishing, foraging workshops, wild swimming and more. Sure to be a highlight is the ‘7 Chefs’ event in Torquay, where guests will be treated to a seven-course seafood feast paired with local artisanal drinks. 

When? 29 September – 15 October 2023

Where? South Devon

BOOK: theseafoodfeast.co.uk

October

Falmouth Oyster Festival

Oyster lovers, shuck to your heart’s content at the annual Falmouth Oyster Festival, which runs every October to celebrate the start of oyster-dredging season. Taking place on the harbourside location of Church Street, it offers a mix of cookery demonstrations, live music, arts and crafts and more, with plenty of opportunities to sample top Cornish produce. Naturally, oysters are a key focus: there’s a shucking competition and a grand oyster parade, but the festival also celebrates the wider diversity of Cornish seafood, with plenty of champagne to pair it with.

When? 13 – 16 October 2023

Where? Falmouth, Cornwall

BOOK: falmouthoysterfestival.co.uk

The post Food Festivals: What To Book For 2023 appeared first on Country and Town House.

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How To Celebrate Pride In London

Pride in London is perhaps the only occasion where such a bright light is shone on the issues the community and people within it face and aims to represent every part of London’s LGBTQ+ community, including those who are ‘lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans*, queer, questioning, intersex, non-binary, asexual, polysexual, genderqueer and gender variant’. While from the outside it might just seem like an excuse to celebrate, it’s important to remember the real reason Pride is and should be such a big deal. Same-sex marriages were only legalised in England in 2014. The Gender Recognition Act came into effect in 2004, but was criticised harshly by many members of the House of Lords – and still is. And, regardless of laws in place to protect and promise respect to LGBTQ+ people, violence and intolerance against can be found far more easily than we’d like.

(c) Ehimetalor Akhere Unuabona, Unsplash

So, this Pride, celebrate and walk respectfully – whether you are part of the LGBTQ+ community or a committed ally – but keep in mind the harsh challenges still faced today, and most importantly, donate to the causes:

• Stonewall: Programmes, campaigns and fundraising to protect the LGBTQ+ people
• LGBT Foundation: Helping improve the lives of LGBTQ+ people
• akt: Supports LGBTQ+ young people who are homeless or living in hostile environments
• MindOut: Mental health service run by and for LGBTQ+ people
• The Albert Kennedy Foundation: Supporting homeless and vulnerable young LGBTQ+ people

Discover more charities at charitynavigator.org

Pride Parade: Saturday 1 July 2023

This year’s Pride parade follows 2022’s jam-packed 50th anniversary, which looked back at Pride’s evolution over the last half-century, with nods to key figures who have helped shape queer history and the new struggles the community faces today. This year, over 600 LGBT+ community groups signed up to march in the parade, with 30,000 people registered overall.

This year’s Pride in London parade is all about trans allyship, with the slogan ‘Never March Alone’ and shaped with the help of Hannah Graf, Mz Kimberly and Dani St. James. On the theme, Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London, said: ‘London is renowned across the globe as a beacon of inclusion and diversity, and Pride is part of the reason. The march of solidarity and celebration has helped to change our society and I’m pleased that this year’s campaign will be in support of the capital’s trans and non-binary community.’

‘In London you are free to be who you want to be and to love you want to love. In July more than 1.5m people will once again take to the streets to send that message to the world,’ the Mayor said.

Christopher Joell-Deshields, CEO of Pride in London, added: ‘Pride in London is much more than a celebration of our vibrant community; it is a powerful gathering that fosters unity and support. Amidst the ongoing adversity faced by the LGBT+ community worldwide, we want every trans and non-binary person to feel the unwavering solidarity we offer. You are not alone – we stand with you.’

The parade will start at approximately 12pm at Hyde Park Corner and will make its way through central London. If you’d rather watch the action from the comfort of a seat, book a grandstand ticket here.

(c) NIM, Unsplash

Brand New Pride Plaques

Plus, five new LGBTQI+ plaques are set to be installed across the capital, celebrating – in the style of London’s iconic blue plaques –  significant people, places and moments in LGBTQI+ history. The following five plaques will join London’s present two LGBTQI+ plaques:

• Greenwich Tavern: A plaque commemorating Beautiful Thing, a 1996 coming-of-age film set in Thamesmead and Greenwich
• Black Lesbian and Gay Centre, Peckham: A plaque celebrating the first centre established in Europe to provide advice and support to the Black LGBTQI+ community
• Westminster: A plaque celebrating Jackie Forster, the journalist and activist who helped found the social group and long-running publication, Sappho
• Ladbroke Grove: A plaque celebrating London Lighthouse, a past centre and hospice for people with HIV and AIDS
• Haringey Civic Centre: A plaque marking Section 28 and the first Lesbian and Gay Unit of its kind

Pride 2023: Events & Things To Do

Hundreds of events take place every year. The full schedule and line-up for 2023 can be found at prideinlondon.org

Together & Change Flashmob in The City

On 30 June, the day before the big Pride Parade, a flashmob dance will take place in the City celebrating the LGBTQ+ community. The Together & Change Flash Dance will be an open, inclusive and welcoming dance event with eye catching choreography and vibrant costumes. Catch it at 12.30–1.30pm at St Helen’s Square, 1 Undershaft (opposite the Aviva building).

Queer Britain

The UK’s national LGBTQ+ museum launched last year in London, a creative space for all to feel at home in, regardless of sexuality or gender identity. Through regularly updated exhibitions, visitors can find out about the community and their place within it. As Queer Britain highlights on its website, ‘we’re helping complete the Nation’s family tree’. 2 Granary Square, London N1C 4BH, queerbritain.org.uk

King’s Cross Summer Sounds x Queer Britain

Adding to the above, later in the Pride season, Queer Britain will be taking over King’s Cross’s Summer Sounds season on 15 August, showcasing some of the best local LGBTQ+ talent. Free, from 6.30pm, kingscross.co.uk

(c) Home House

Pride at Home House

Members of one of London’s most hedonistic private clubs Home House can get in on the action at its annual Pride party on Friday 30 June 2023, with special guest DJ Fat Tony. Part of the club’s month-long celebration of diversity, love, and inclusivity, members can also enjoy a colourful floral installation by resident florist Ricky Paul Flowers, limited edition Pride-inspired cocktails and more. Non-members can join the celebrations by staying in one of the club’s 23 unique bedrooms and suites. homehouse.co.uk

Read our review of Home House here

Queer Joy Exhibition

Plus, King’s Cross’ Outside Art Project is having a Pride month makeover, displaying 50 striking portraits of queer people captured by ten emerging LGBTQIA+ photographers from the UK and abroad. Free, 1 June–31 August 2023, Pancras Square and Granary Square, kingscross.co.uk

Pasta Evangelists’ Pride Pasta Party

Held in the heart of Shoreditch at The Trampery, Pasta Evangelists‘ ‘Queen of Pasta’ Chef Roberta d’Elia will be imparting her Italian sparkle and wisdom for Pride 2023, teaching guests how to make fresh rainbow pasta. Guests can sip on bottomless prosecco throughout the evening, alongside surprise performances from drag talent and a host of delicious extras. 1 July 2023, £65 per person, pastaevangelists.com

Friday Lates at the National Gallery

The National Gallery will be hosting a camp and colourful life drawing session on the eve of Pride as part of its Friday Lates series. Led by 2B Or Not 2B Collective, expect modern interpretations of classical works, celebrating London’s LGBTQ+ community. Friday 30 June 2023, free event, nationalgallery.org.uk

PROUD WEST END

A ground-breaking audio-visual ‘living portraits’ art exhibition is coming to Old Quebec Street from 28 June–16 July in celebration of Pride 2023. Launched by Oxford Street, the free exhibition will share true spoken stories from fifteen LGBTQIA+ individuals from across the West End, including iconic drag queen Divina de Campo from RuPaul’s Drag Race. Large-scale portraits will be installed in the street for this free exhibition, and accompanied by candid, spoken stories accessed via QR codes. oxfordstreet.co.uk

Pride Donuts At Donutelier

Indulge with a sweet treat at Covent Garden’s Donutelier and its limited edition Pride donuts. Choose between Rainbow Coconut (soft toffee, coconut ganache, white chocolate Chantilly, sable disk) and Pistachio Pride (Pistachio varigato, white chocolate Chantilly, pistachio ganache sable disk), both £6.50. donutelier.co.uk

Duckie Summer Fete

An unmissable celebration of LGBTQIA+ communities and allies is coming to Finsbury Circus Gardens on 1 July. The extravaganza is a modern mash up of an afternoon fair and picnic, which pays homage to the early Pride celebrations of the 1970s with performances by the London Gay Symphony Orchestra, DJs Readers Wife, a Gender Circus and more. Tickets are £5 and can be purchased here.

Putt For Pride At Puttshack

Throughout June, Puttshack is partnering with Not A Phase; aiming to raise over £10,000, every hole in one scored throughout June will achieve a 5p donation across all four venues: Bank, White City, Watford and Lakeside. Plus, guests can enjoy the return of Drag Brunch, with special performances from Kara Katour and Mynxie at Bank, alongside free flowing bubbles, beer and mocktails. 11 & 25 June 2023 at Puttshack Bank, from £30pp. designmynight.com

Taboo (they/them) at Osterley Park in Middlesex © National Trust/Isha Shah

Space To Have A Ball

Tottenham Court Road’s Outernet is collaborating with the National Trust for Pride month, creating a free immersive experience that brings to life parties of the past in beautiful historic places, running from 15–30 June 2023. Influenced by the queer history of four National Trust properties, Space To Have A Ball combines the history of ballroom culture with modern and contemporary dance. outernetglobal.com

More Joy X Covent Garden

More Joy by Christopher Kane has installed over 2,000 multi-coloured flags in Covent Garden’s iconic Market Building, to spread positivity, togetherness and support to the LGBTQ+ community. Drawing inspiration from the Pride rainbow flag, there are seven different designs sharing a variety of messages of Joy for the Pride celebrations.

 

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Featured image: Mercedes Mehling, Unsplash

The post How to Celebrate Pride In London 2023 appeared first on Country and Town House.

Groundswell, dubbed the Glastonbury of farming, returns from 28 – 29 June with its most impressive line-up yet. Taking place on Lannock Manor Farm in Hertfordshire, the festival will welcome 200 speakers: farmers, authors, biologists, physicians and policymakers, who will present their ideas about the regenerative agriculture movement.

‘Everyone has a role to play in ensuring we protect our soil, look after the land and produce food in a safe and nutritious way,’ said event director Alex Cherry. ‘Despite the barriers to defining regenerative agriculture, we want to ensure Groundswell remains an inclusive space for everyone to share their own thoughts, practical ideas and experiences to help make farming part of the solution to many of the issues we face today.’ 

Here we outline some of the highlights from this year’s event.

Groundswell: What’s On In 2023?

Soil

At the heart of Groundswell lies a commitment to soil health, and farmers, scientists and microbiologists will be sharing their knowledge at the festival. Take a deep dive into the underworld of soil with Nicole Masters, agroecologist and author of For The Love of Soil, who is hosting a three-hour workshop on soil microbiology. She’s also running a soil observation trip alongside farmers Abby Rose and Annie Landless, while The Land Gardeners are hosting a talk on the future of compost.

Food

Naturally, food will be a key focus. BBC Radio 4’s Sheila Dillon will be hosting a panel talk on what we’ll be eating in 2050, while Thomasina Miers will be discussing how public procurement can revolutionise public health. Regenerative viticulture will also be a focus, with a talk hosted by Mini Casteel of the Regenerative Viticulture Foundation.

Guests will be able to sample plenty of food and drink made using regenerative and organic farming methods. Try pastries and coffee from the Groundswell bakery, beers and ciders from the Earthworm Arms, and dishes from food traders who cook with Pasture For Life meat. You can also catch cookery demonstrations, and tune into the Wine & Cheese Hour hosted by Tamlyn Currin of JancisRobinson.com and Angus Birditt, author of A Portrait of British Cheeses. 

Fashion

Talks will also explore how regenerative farming methods can positively impact the fashion industry. Visitors can learn about climate-friendly sheep farming and new research into the carbon content of wool, plus explore the natural dye garden, which showcases the potential for plant pigments as an emerging farm crop. 

Biodiversity

How is AI helping nature? And why are insects so important? Groundswell will delve into questions like this in a variety of talks on biodiversity. The festival will be a chance to get up close and personal with nature: from guided walks through Agroforestry Alley to a screening of the Wild Isles Food and Farming film – part of the People’s Plan For Nature campaign centred around the BBC TV series.

Glamping

Get even more familiar with the natural world by camping on-site. Groundswell is partnering with Woodville Project to offer glamping accommodation, or you can bring your own tent and pitch up in the camping area.

BOOK:

Find out more and book tickets at groundswellag.com

The post Groundswell: The Glastonbury Of The Farming World appeared first on Country and Town House.

The Best Jazz Festivals To Book In 2023

Cheltenham Jazz Festival

When? 26 April–1 May 2023

Where? Montpellier Gardens, Cheltenham

What? One of Europe’s largest jazz festivals is returning to Cheltenham this May Bank Holiday, with world premiers, new commissions, exclusive collaborations and one-off shows alongside a series of free performances at venues across the pretty town centre. Superstar vocalist Gregory Porter is the Artistic Curator for 2023, handpicking a selection of artists to perform alongside his own headline show. Expect also to hear from Damian Lewis, Laura Mvula, Gregory Porter, Will Young, MIKA, Squeeze, Tony Hadley, Van Morrison and Rufus Wainwright, alongside many more.

BOOK IT: cheltenhamfestivals.com

Iford Manor Jazz Festival

When? 29 June–2 July 2023

Where? Bradford-on-Avon

 

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What? Iford Manor is a lovely, historic venue with a fledgling jazz festival launched a few years ago. Curated by multi-award-winning jazz vocalist Claire Martin OBE, the programme is filled with acclaimed jazz artists from all over the world alongside rising stars. Listen to Ray Gelato and The Giants while tucking into a whole host of food and drink offerings including a champagne bar and an open fire Argentinian asado.

BOOK IT: ilfordmanor.co.uk

Love Supreme Jazz Festival

Where? Glynde Place, East Sussex

When? 30 June–2 July 2023

What? The UK’s only major music festival for 2023 with an all-women headliner bill, venture to East Sussex’s beautiful Glynde Place this summer for the 10th anniversary Love Supreme Music Festival and its biggest line up to date. Grace Jones, Little Simz, Candi Staton, Emeli Sande, Shalamar, Courtney Pine and many more are confirmed to perform, alongside a wellness and yoga area, organised hill walks across the South Downs, talks and panels, film screenings, and DJs late into the night.

BOOK IT: Tickets from £63. lovesupremefestival.com

North Sea Jazz Festival

Where? Rotterdam, the Netherlands

When? 7–9 July 2023

 

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What? A hub for music fans and professionals alike, Rotterdam’s North Sea Jazz Festival features workshops, panels and exhibitions alongside over 1,000 artists spanning jazz, blues, soul and funk. Established in 1976, the 2023 edition features Stormzy, Tom Jones, Janelle Monae, Seal and Lizzo, among many more. 

BOOK IT: northseajazz.com

Umbria Jazz

Where? Perugia, Italy

When? 7–16 July 2023

 

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What? Founded in 1973 by Italian music producer Carlo Pagnotta, Umbria Jazz is celebrating 50 years in 2023. With blues, soul and Latin music alongside jazz, enjoy established artists like MIKA and newcomers in the stunning surroundings of Perugia this summer. With a key focus on sustainability, opportunities for emerging artists to learn more, and plenty for little ones to get up to, too, this is a truly wholesome jazz festival.

BOOK IT: umbriajazz.it 

Sani Festival

Where? Sani Hill, Kassandra, Greece

When? 15 July–26 August 2023

What? Jazz in sunny Greece? Sounds ideal. This festival is as kind on the eyes as it is the ears: situated on Sani Hill, where the sea, sky and greenery all meet against the dramatic backdrop of the ruined Byzantine tower and the Aegean Sea. Celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, what started as a small jazz festival has transformed into one of the country’s foremost cultural institutions. Making the most of warm summer nights, Sani Festival is this year headlined by Andrea Bocelli – who will close the festival on 20 August – and promises a lineup of the greats, as well as incorporating rock and pop into the itinerary for the first time. Tom Odell, Bonnie Tyler, Sarah Brightman, Chucho Valdés, Paquito D’Rivera, Al Di Meola, Jack Savoretti, and Bob Geldof will all perform, as well as a plethora of Greek legends.

BOOK IT: sani-resort.com 

Jazz in Marciac

Where? Marciac, France

When? 20 July–6 August 2023

 

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What? This small-town jazz festival draws local and international jazz musicians to southwestern France for two weeks of escapism. Famously relaxed and welcoming, expect workshops, masterclasses and exhibitions alongside performances from the likes of Norah Jones, Samara Joy and Gregory Porter. 

BOOK IT: jazzinmarciac.com 

We Out Here

Where? Wimborne St Giles, Dorset

When? 10–14 August 2023

 

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What? Moving to a new home for 2023 – from Abbots Ripton, Cambridge to Dorset – We Out Here is billed as a jazz festival ‘for everyone’, the brainchild of British DJ Giles Peterson. The inaugural 2019 festival was an instant success, with a stellar line-up spanning not just jazz but house, disco, soul, drum ‘n’ bass and more. In 2023, Ezra Collective, Knucks, Nia Archives and Róisín Murphy will all perform. Elsewhere you’ll find ‘The Escape’, which hosts mindfulness workshops, yoga and art therapy, a wild swimming lake, plenty of cultural offerings and excellent food.

BOOK IT: weoutherefestival.com

Flow Festival

Where? Helsinki, Finland

When? 11–13 August 2023

 

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What? Founded in 2004 as a small jazz and soul event, Flow Festival has grown into a key player on the European music festival scene. Wizkid, Blur and FKA Twigs are all performing this summer, alongside a cultural programme of talks and art. Flow has impressive eco-credits too, being one of the world’s first carbon-neutral festivals.

BOOK IT: flowfestival.com

Featured image: Love Supreme Jazz Festival

The post The Best Jazz Festivals To Book In 2023 appeared first on Country and Town House.