Insider tip: Henley Festival

After the last rower leaves Henley Regatta each July, the grounds magically transform into one of the UK’s leading boutique music festival.

For more than 30 years the 5-day Henley Festival has brought together music, dance, comedy, street entertainment and Michelin star chefs to the banks of the Thames.

I go most years.  There’s nothing more spectacular on a warm summer’s evening. The river is speckled with boats boasting revellers sipping champagne and everywhere you turn there is an artistic delight. Evenings culminate in a spectacular fireworks performance. It’s all very elegant and Henley and on rainy days you’ll see wellies under evening dresses.

The 2016 Henley Festival headliners include Elton John, Elvis Costello, Bryn Terfel and Will Young. Elton is sold out, but the others are still available.

Sunday at the festival is Family Day, where kids can interact with world-class children’s entertainers, musicians, circuses, comedians and street entertainers, including Beatbox star Shlomo, comedy from Jay Foreman, and leading circus company, Upswing. There will also be craft and art sessions.

Tickets go on sale on 25 Feb. With tickets starting at £35, it’s one of the most affordable festival experiences in the UK.

Hope to see you there!