Britain’s best festivals
From music to art, fire to books – here’s my top 10 must-see events
Glastonbury Festival
Everyone should go to Glastonbury Festival once in their life. This legendary music event in Somerset, is the largest “greenfield music festival” in the world and has some of the biggest acts in the world, every June.
Edinburgh International Festival
The Edinburgh festival is also world-famous, bringing the Scottish capital to life every August with classical music, opera and contemporary music. The Edinburgh Military Tattoo also takes place. Running alongside it, is the Edinburgh Fringe, with comedy and theatre. My claim to fame is I was once in it.
Jane Austen Festival
If you are visiting Bath, then head to the beautiful city in September, when it turns the clock back to Regency times, with the 10-day Jane Austen Festival. There’s a huge costumed promenade, balls, performances and more.
Isle of Wight Festival
June sees another legendary music festival take place. The Isle of Wight Festival, Britain’s answer to Woodstock, was rebooted in 2002 and is bigger and better than ever. Plus, you get to extend your holiday on the lovely island.
The Proms
The famous BBC Proms take place at London’s Royal Albert Hall, from July to September. The sell-out events are an eight-week programme of classical music which include the famous promming tickets for £7, for those prepared to queue every day.
Up Helly Aa
This amazing fire festival is on my wish list. Taking place in Shetland in January, Up Helly Aa involves a wild costumed torchlit procession, followed by the burning of a replica Viking ship and giant party. Nobody mention The Wicker Man.
Bristol International Balloon Fiesta
For an unforgettable sight, put the brilliant Bristol International Balloon Fiesta in your diary. Taking place in August, this hot air balloon festival is free and fabulous.
Hay Festival
A must for book-lovers, is the Hay literary festival in Hay-on-Wye, Wales. This gorgeous town, full of bookshops, hosts events and talks from favourite authors and experts every May. I’ve been to Hay-on-Wye, but never the festival and again, it’s on my to-do list.
Lewes Bonfire Celebrations
Remember, remember the 5th of November. Trust me, you’ll never forget the Lewes Bonfire Celebrations in East Sussex, as they are absolutely crazy. The town is ablaze with its many bonfire societies and parades. I’ve been to this and let’s just say you have to like crowds.
Glyndebourne opera
See the opera in a setting like no other, at Glyndebourne, also in Lewes. Every May to August this country house showcases world-class opera. You can frock up, take a picnic, or book a champagne dinner, during the 90-minute interval. It’s brilliantly British. Visit Glyndebourne opera.