Beautiful Days

Why should I go? Family orientated event with a unique atmosphere.

Any interesting titbits of information? The festival runs not one but two unsigned talent competitions.

The Levellers were a 16th century band of proto-socialists, rebelling against the power enjoyed by landowners and the church. A few hundred years later The Levellers morph into a band of indie-folk crusties, becoming perhaps the definitive British festival band. Loved by travellers, the band have survived everything the music industry could throw at them. Now they’ve formed their own country retreat, where for three days you can enjoy almost complete freedom in the warm Devon sunshine.

Established entirely without sponsorship, Beautiful Days exists free of branding with even the bars staffed by local companies. The event boasts a spectacular site, carefully selected local produce and even a ‘village shop’ giving the feel of a small community. Of course, The Levellers themselves are always present, whether helping out on a stall, chatting to fans or jamming onstage. The line-up is personally selected by the band, with this year boasting acts such as expert reggae types Dreadzone, hippy survivors Gong and a DJ set by Australian party merchants Pendulum.

Unlike other festivals Beautiful Days isn’t about music to justify the merchandise stalls – Beautiful Days aims to create a flexible and mobile community, that thrives for a few summer days before disappearing back into the countryside.

Ticket price: Adult weekend camping: £100.

Accommodation: Camping onsite.

Site opening: Friday August 21st

Travel: Easy access by car and rail, just of A30.