Begginners guide to Camp Bestival

Camp Bestival returns to Dorset’s Jurassic Coast for a weekend of family-friendly shenanigans for the last weekend of July (28th-31st). Unlike its better known big sister Bestival (which is deliberately placed on the first weekend after schools go back to deter those troublesome young revellers) Camp Bestival prides itself on being a weekend of fun that can be enjoyed by all ages. ‘Kids are king at Camp Bestival’ claims the website; young festival goers will have the opportunity to learn circus skills, jump on bouncy castles and frolic to their heart’s content. However, much like its grown up sister festival, there is still a fantastic lineup on offer to make it well worth parents’ time and money. Let’s face it, as the ones in charge it’s the parents who need convincing and this festival makes sure it has plenty to offer all age groups. Recently had children but not ready to face a summer without a festival fix? Camp Bestival is for you…

What’s On

Curated by leftfield Radio 1 DJ Rob da Bank, the festival’s lineup spans all kinds of genres; folk, reggae, hip hop, Afrobeat and dance music are all given representation. Whilst manifesting through a disparate range of genres, the lineup seems to be lovely and laid back. If you’re looking to vent frustrations built up through the year then letting go to the likes of Skepta or Slaves at the more rambunctious Bestival might be a better option!

As you’d expect from a festival put together by a well-respected radio DJ there are some real musical treats on offer over the course of the weekend. Kiko Bun, an up and coming London-based roots reggae artist, will be bringing the sounds of sunshine regardless of the weather. Ethereal pop pioneer Duke Special will be bringing his unique singer-songwriter sound, and more mainstream acts Katy B and KT Tunstall are also set to perform. Bestival regulars The Rajasthan Heritage Brass Band will add regal Indian splendour into the already eclectic mix. In a rare break from the relaxed vibe Fatboy Slim will be bringing his dance music hits, and the genre-spanning DJ Yoda will be keeping the place lively.

To see the full lineup click here. 

However, being a family orientated festival, Camp Bestival’s appeal is not limited to music. Entertainment on offer includes art displays, extreme sports demos and even beard competitions mean that there is plenty to keep you (and your children) interested. Scroobius Pip will also be bringing the best in UK spoken word to his ‘Satin Lizard Lounge’ (and presumably obliterating the competition in the beard contest- c’mon, he has to win).

What to Bring and How to Get There

In keeping with Bestival tradition there is a theme for the weekend, with this year’s being ‘Outer Space’. Be sure to bring some fancy dress (the wackier the better) to avoid being the only terrestrial lifeform in sight!

As the name suggests, the emphasis for this festival is on camping and only a limited number of day tickets are available. Whilst a wide range of food stalls will be serving up top-notch festival fare, you are also welcome to bring your own BBQs and stoves, with the organisers keen to make the family camping element of the festival as convivial as possible.

Stunningly situated in the grounds of Ludlow Castle, Camp Bestival is accessible by car, rail and coach. This will surely be welcome news to anyone who has had to make the pilgrimage to the Isle of White for Camp Bestival’s big sister!

Visit http://www.campbestival.net/in fo/travel-info for more information.

 

Tom Horton