This weekend we are once again welcoming The Levellers festival Beautiful Days.
The festival has been held in the grounds of Escot House since it started in 2003 and it has grown in size and reputation over the past 14 years – the capacity is perfect at current numbers of just 17,500.
Beautiful Days is a family-friendly festival that attracts locals and visitors from across the country who love the relaxed atmosphere and eclectic music. This isn’t a festival just for the young, there is always a really wide age range of revellers. A children’s area is full of entertainment – much of it noisy and a family camping field mean that youngsters are made welcome. And the generations always mix and get along.
Escot Park lends itself perfectly as an outdoor concert venue. The main stage sits in a slight bowl, so hardcore fans can dance at the front while the more laid back can relax on their rugs and view the stage from further away. There’s the Big Top, an undercover venue that is always heaving if there’s a shower! Also The Little Big Top, The Band Stand, The Bimble Inn, the seated Theatre Tent and new for 2017 The Rebel Tent which we’re looking forward to visiting.
The music on offer gives something for everyone. Paul Heaton and Jacqui Abbot headline on Friday, after the wonderful Waterboys. New Model Army, The Sisters of Mercy and Frank Turner play on Saturday and rounding it all off on Sunday are the Levellers, of course.
The festival has lots of bars serving Otter Brewery ales and cider; the bars can get busy but you never have to wait too long. Feeding yourself is easy as there are a multitude of catering options, including wholesome vegetarian delights to chips, chips and more chips! Get up early and enjoy a tasty breakfast while it’s quiet. Or stay in your tent until the music starts. The choice is yours.
On Sunday everyone gets into fancy dress – this year the theme is Rock the Boat so pirates, mermaids, sailors, fish and crustaceans will be seen roaming Escot Park.
Have a great time if you’re coming. We’ll be in the crowd, enjoying the atmosphere and supping a pint or two.
Gates open on Thursday at 2pm. See you there!
