JULY

MANCHESTER INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL
Where: Various venues, Manchester
When: 2-19 July
What: A newbie which, when it debuted last year, entertained over 200k punters and saw critics declare it a rival to Edinburgh’s crown. Devoted to world premieres, 2007 was dominated by Damon Albarn and Jamie Hewlitt’s Chinese circus opera ‘Monkey: Journey To The West’. Line-up for this year remains tbc, but expect a highbrow programme of new music, theatre, art and dance, bolstered by a recent £1million Arts Council grant. Price: various, some free. Web: www.manchesterinternational festival.com

PURAVIDA LONG WEEKENDER
Where: Thorngrove House, Common Mead Lane, Gillingham, Dorset
When: 3-6 July
What: As Puravida Bank Holiday Weekender (see 2-5 May), but with the addition of outdoors acoustic bands. Price: tbc, c£95 w/e, concs, day tickets. Ffi: www.puravida.uk.com

ROYAL SHOW
Where: Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire
When: 3-6 July
What: Barbours and green wellies on, please, for this ‘Archers’ listener’s wet dream, a prestigious agriculture show devoted to farming, food and rural life. From horse whisperers to hedge trimmers, it’s all here. Masses of exhibits and pursuits, showing off the best of British livestock, all the latest business and technological innovations in the farming industry, as well as shopping, food, flowers, crafts, country pursuits, equestrian competitions and arena displays and a car park full of authentically muddied Landrovers. Price: £18 adult per day, under-5s free, concs. Tel: 0871 230 5590, web: www.royalshow.org.uk

LOCAL EVENT
TASTE OF BATH FESTIVAL
Where: Royal Victoria Park, Bath
When: 3-6 July
What: Bath’s Taste Festival launched last year and returns to the The Royal Crescent in 2008. Restaurants offering samples of their signature dishes include Chris Horridge’s Michelin-starred Bath Priory, The Dower House at The Royal Crescent, Hywel Jones and team from Lucknam Park and the Olive Tree. Plus Taste Kitchen where you will find top chefs and food writers running demonstrations and tastings; the Producers’ Market showcasing local produce; and hands-on cookery classes will be found in the Bertinet Kitchen. Price: from £12. Tel: 0870 060 3784, web: www.channel4.com/tastefestivals

WIRELESS FESTIVAL
Where: Hyde Park, London
When: 3-6 July
What: No Leeds leg this year, just four days of rock and pop in the heart of Ver Smoke. Morrissey makes his only UK festival appearance on the Fri (preceded by Beck and The National). Fatboy Slim and Underworld do the Sat shift while earnest US exchange students in cashmere sway to Counting Crows and Ben Harper on the Sun. Others tbc. Plus fairground, chill-out areas, street theatre, performance art, markets and VIP areas. No camping. Price: £139-£263 w/e, day tickets. Tel: 0871 230 9840, web: www.02wirelessfestival.co.uk

YORK EARLY MUSIC FESTIVAL
Where: Various venues, York
When: 3-12 July
What: ‘Exile’ is the theme of this year’s knees-up for those who know their sackbuts from their psalteries. One of the few events dedicated to music from the Middle Ages, YEMF - as it’s known to its friends - this year welcomes guest artists such as the Harp Consort, Yorkshire Baroque Soloists, the Choir of New College, Oxford, the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment and London Baroque with Emma Kirkby. Price: various. Tel: 01904 658338, web: www.ncem.co.uk/yemf.shtml

LLANFYLLIN MUSIC FESTIVAL
Where: St Myllin’s Church, High St, Llanfyllin, Powys
When: 4, 6, 9, 11, 12 & 13 July
What: Bach, Beethoven, Haydn, Bartok, Britten, Brahms and Schumann from The Allegri Quartet. Price: £40 season ticket or £12 for single events. Tel: 01938 500441, web: www.llanfyllinfestival.org.uk

BLISSFIELDS
Where: Matterley Bowl, nr Winchester, Hants
When: 4-6 July
What: Expect a carnival-like atmosphere at this family-friendly do which won the Best Small Festival 2007 category at the UK Festival Awards, with juggling, beatbox and DJ workshops, belly dancers, circus performances, storytelling and a mass birthday party for anybody celebrating their day while at the festival. The Wonder Stuff headline Fri, The Whip on Sat and Roni Size on Sun. Price: £60 adult w/e, day tickets. Web: www.blissfields.co.uk

GODIVA FESTIVAL
Where: War Memorial Park, Coventry
When: 4-6 July
What: Yep, lads, the centrepiece of this Midlands get-together is indeed a near-naked lass on a horse à la Lady Godiva. Huge free three-day festival attracting 60,000 people annually and proffering live acts in three music tents, covering pop/rock (Super Furry Animals, The Enemy and Ozomatli showed up last year), world music, circus, comedy, street entertainment and lots of family/kids’ activities. No camping. Price: free. Tel: 0247 629 4525, web: www.godivafestival.co.uk

LOCAL EVENT
SAUL CANAL FESTIVAL & FOLK ON THE WATER WEEKEND
Where: Saul Junction, nr Frampton-on-Severn, Glos
When: 4-6 July
What: Sadly cancelled last year due to the floods, this annual gathering on the Gloucester-Sharpness canal presents coracles, canoes, cruisers, barges and boats both narrow and wide, plus folk music from - as on last year’s planned bill - Oysterband, Show of Hands, Cave and many more. Plus trade market, real ale pub and family fun. All surplus proceeds from this festival will help to restore the waterway link between the rivers Severn and Thames. Price: £60 w/e with camping, day tickets. Tel: 01453 766751, web: www.junctionevents.org.uk

TWO RIVERS FOLK FESTIVAL
Where: Chepstow Racecourse and Castle, Chepstow, South Wales
When: 4-6 July
What: Friendly South Wales folk festival with performances from Oysterband, Baghdaddies, Steamchicken, Keith Donnelly, and loads more. There’s also family fun in the shape of Morris dancers, ceilidhs, street markets and - for the grown-ups - a beer festival. New for 2008: headline Friday concert at the racecourse campsite will be under cover; shuttle bus timetable with weekend season ticket; later start for Saturday headline concert at castle. Price: £50 adult w/e, concs, day tickets. Camping £5. Tel: 07870 611979; web: www.tworiversfolkfestival.com

WAKESTOCK (ABERSOCH)
Where: Abersoch, Cardigan Bay, North Wales
When: 4-6 July
What: See also 27-29 June. No under-16s. Price: £110 adult w/e with camping, day tickets. Tel: 01758 710000, web: www.wakestock.co.uk

WORKHOUSE FESTIVAL
Where: Llanfyllin, Powys, Wales
When: 4-6 July
What: Green, not-for-profit affair set in the grounds of a former workhouse and playing host to Celtic, world, indie, reggae, ska, dance and electronica, as well as DJs, cabaret, kids’ area, sauna and showers, alternative energy, stalls and cafes, bar, a healing area and green crafts. New for 2008: new area for green and environmental innovations. Price: £55 adult w/e, under-12s free. Web: www.workhousefestival.co.uk

LOCAL EVENT
FROME FESTIVAL
Where: Various venues, Frome
When: 4-13 July
What: Only eight years old, but the Frome Festival is now so much a part of the local calendar it’s impossible to imagine fabulous Frome without it. Now with a new creative director after the retirement of founder Martin Bax, it sallies forth once again with the usual high-calibre blend of rock, classical, folk, world, jazz, comedy, literature, film, dance, theatre, workshops and kids’ events. 10CC, Paul Merton, Ken Dodd, Jolly Jumps Dance Company from Prague, Glen Tilbrook, Courtney Pine, June Tabor, Clare Teal and Sheila Chandra are amongst the line-up this year. Price: various. Tel: 01373 453889, web: www.fromefestival.co.uk

LEDBURY POETRY FESTIVAL
Where: Various venues, Ledbury, Herefordshire
When: 4-13 July
What: The UK’s biggest poetry festival, this year with Jackie Kay as poet-in-residence and judge of the open poetry comp. Versifiers booked so far include Michael Rosen, Vicki Feaver, Luke Kennard, Martin Espada, Jon Anderson, Fred Voss and Luke Wright. As well as talks and readings, there are also workshops and music events. Price: various. Tel: 0845 458 1743, web: www.poetry-festival.com

LOCAL EVENT
CHELTENHAM INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF MUSIC
Where: Cheltenham Town Hall & various other venues, Cheltenham
When: 4-19 July
What: A new artistic director takes the helm this year at this internationally renowned classical knees-up. Meurig Bowen - hitherto chief sorter-outer at the esteemed Aldeburgh and Lichfield Festivals - promises plenty of contemporary, chamber and symphonic music, and alongside you can expect the usual fringe events, free outdoor concerts, kids’ stuff and more. Price: various. Tel: 01242 227979, web: www.cheltenhamfestivals.co.uk

IRON MAIDEN
Where: Twickenham Rugby Stadium
When: 5 July
What: First ever stadium show for the heavy metal heavyweights, and only UK date on their world tour. Temptation and Avenged Sevenfold support. Price: £37.50-£50. Web: www.ironmaiden.com

JACK JOHNSON
Where: Watergate Bay, Newquay
When: 5 July
What: Surf bummery’s chief poster boy heads for the West Country. G Love & Special Sauce support. Also: Hyde Park (2 July), Birmingham NIA (3 July) and Manchester’s MEN Arena (7 July). Price: £37.50. Web: www.jackjohnsonmusic.com

PRIDE FESTIVAL
Where: Various venues, London
When: 5 July
What: The UK’s LGBT Mardi Gras, this fun, flamboyant get-together is preceded by a fortnight of over 300 exhibitions, film screenings, sporting events, concerts, theatre, comedy and cabaret performances, as well as special galas and one-off parties across London, culminating in a massive parade from Selfridges to Victoria Embankment, followed by rally in Trafalgar Square, cabaret in Leicester Square and party in Soho Square. Price: various, main parade/rally/cabaret free. Email: info@pridelondon.org, web: www.pridelondon.org

LOCAL EVENT
PROM ON THE CLOSE
Where: Clifton College, Bristol
When: 5 July
What: Lovable Doncaster diva Lesley Garrett dons her best frock for a night of popular classics joined by tenor Paul Austin Kelly, conductor Philip Ellis, the Emerald Ensemble orchestra, and the choir and musicians from Clifton College. RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (fingers crossed), and fireworks. Picnicking encouraged. Price: £20-£115. Tel: 0870 774 05 77, web: www.promontheclose.com

LOCAL EVENT
ST PAULS CARNIVAL
Where: St Pauls, Bristol
When: 5 July
What: After last year’s postponement to Sept, and its total absence in 2006, it’s nice to see Bristol’s big street party back in its midsummer slot. Expect traditional carnival ingredients such as mass floats-‘n’-costumes procession, soundsystems and African and Caribbean food as well as live music and workshops on Grosvenor Green and Portland Square. Price: free. Tel: 0117 944 4176, web: www.stpaulscarnival.org.uk

WILD IN THE COUNTRY
Where: Knebworth Park, Herts
When: 5 July
What: Intimate, electronica-heavy boutique fest which is the proud host of Björk’s only UK festival appearance. Plus Pendulum, Sasha, 2ManyDJs, Foals, Late Of The Pier, Killa Kela, Metronomy and Norman Jay. Six marquees, one stage, fun fair, enchanted wood, tea room and more. Price: £54 adult w/e. Tel: 0871 230 7137, web: www.renaissance.com

CORNBURY MUSIC FESTIVAL
Where: Cornbury Park, Charlbury, Oxfordshire
When: 5-6 July
What: Crowded House, The Bangles, 10CC, Toots & The Maytals, Nick Lowe, The Beat, Half Man Half Biscuit, KT Tunstall, Beverley Knight, Tom Baxter, Imelda May and many more rock up to this admirably eclectic Oxfordshire music fest which leans just the right side of fogeyish. Improvements promised this year in camping and signage, as well as more bars and food. Expect fairground, theatre workshops, arts and crafts, and speciality shops, too. Price: £110 adult w/e with camping, day tickets, VIP tickets. Tel: 0207 229 2219, web: www.cornburyfestival.com

LOCAL EVENT
THE COTSWOLD SHOW & COUNTRY FAIR
Where: Cirencester Park, Cirencester, Glos
When: 5-6 July
What: Motorcycle stunts and dog displays, off-road racing, fairground, polo and falconry, farmers’ market, children’s events and demonstrations of olde country crafts are just some of the family-friendly attractions on offer at this annual country fair on 3,000 acres of greenbelt. Price: £10 adult per day, concs. Tel: 01749 813899, web: www.cotswoldshow.co.uk

LOCAL EVENT
TRUCKFEST SOUTH WEST
Where: Royal Bath & West Showground, Shepton Mallet, Somerset
When: 5-6 July
What: Loads of lorries, basically, and fat-necked, red-faced men and their kids staring at them. Europe’s largest (for Peterborough, South East, Yorkshire, Scotland and North West legs, see website). All manner of trade stands, funfair, excellent camping facilities and a Truckfest Party Night. Guest slebs of the Big Brother/boy band variety. Price: adult £12 per day, camping extra. Tel: 01775 768661, web: www.truckfest.co.uk

A DAY AT THE HOP FARM
Where: Hop Farm Country Park, Tonbridge, Kent
When: 6 July
What: A new “back to basics” one-day event from Mean Fiddler mogul Vince Power and promising absolutely no registration, VIP areas or branding. Neil Young headlines in his only UK festival performance; support acts include Supergrass. Price: £49.50. Web: www.seetickets.com

LOCAL EVENT
KEYNSHAM FESTIVAL
Where: Keynsham, nr Bristol
When: 6 July
What: Popular one-day community fest hosting four stages, creative workshops, stalls, food, child-friendly activities, and drawing an audience of 16,000 people every year. Emphasis on local performers. Price: free.

BUXTON FESTIVAL
Where: Various venues, Buxton, Derbyshire
When: 9-27 July
What: Over 120 highbrow classical concerts and literary talks in the delightful Derbyshire spa town. This year’s highlights include: Handel’s ‘Samson’, Purcell’s ‘Dido & Aeneas’, Weill’s ‘Street Scene’ and a recital by Sir Thomas Allen. Ticket prices are the most reasonable in the country for opera. Price: various. Tel: 01298 70395, web: www.buxtonfestival.co.uk

MUSIC FOR AFRICA
Where: Montacute House, nr Yeovil, Somerset
When: 11-12 July
What: Back for a fourth year, this charity event raises funds for children in Phokwane, South Africa to buy instruments, employ local music teachers and even help build new classrooms with. This year’s line-up includes tribute bands Sgt Peppers Only Dartboard Band and The Rolling Clones. Plus real ale beer tent and plenty of food. Price: £21 adult. Web: www.musicforafrica.org.uk

NEWT BEER FESTIVAL
Where: North Newton, nr Taunton, Somerset
When: 11-12 July
What: Somerset’s biggest beer fest, originally started as a fundraiser for the local primary school. Plenty of ale and a live music stage. Camping available. Price: tbc. Tel: 01278 663059, web: www.newtbeerfest.com

LOCAL EVENT
TWO THOUSAND TREES FESTIVAL
Where: Upcote Farm, Withington, Cheltenham, Glos
When: 11-12 July
What: Nominated for Best New Festival at last year’s UK Festival Awards, this green, ethical Cotswold-based event keeps things intimate with a maximum capacity of just 2,500. Two stages and a disco tent host a motley crew of underground types such as Art Brut, Reuben, The Duke Spirit, Frank Turner, Future of the Left and Flipron. No kids’ stuff as such, but a family-friendly atmosphere. Price: £39 adult w/e. Web: www.twothousandtreesfestival.co.uk

LOCAL EVENT
BRISTOL WINE & FOOD FAIR
Where: Harbourside, Bristol
When: 11-13 July
What: Three-day event celebrating fine wine, fine dining and fine food. Globally renowned wine merchants will be on hand throughout free tasting sessions (with over 600 wines available to buy by the case, bottle or glass), with local restaurants and chefs offering a range of signature dishes to nibble at and cheese experts offering masterclasses alongside a vibrant local produce market, a stylish bar area and plenty of live music and original entertainment to keep you occupied as you quaff. Price: £5; tutored wine and cheese tastings individually priced (full details published on website from 1 May). Web: www.bristolwineandfoodfair.co.uk

ELY FOLK WEEKEND
Where: Ely Outdoor Centre, Ely, Cambridgeshire
When: 11-13 July
What: All the usual suspects at this Fens-based foot-tapper: Show of Hands, Martin Simpson, Spiers & Boden, plus morris displays, real ale, trade stalls, workshops, dances, children’s entertainment and more. Price: £56 adult w/e with camping, concs, day tickets. Tel: 01353 614164, web: www.elyfolk.co.uk

FUSE: THE EVENT IN A TENT
Where: Beacon Park, Lichfield, Staffordshire
When: 11-13 July
What: Free community festival offering family entertainment including a carnival, over 15 live bands including Bad Medicine, Lazy Lizards and Zoot Suit Blues, theatre, dance, arts, crafts, bar and food. This year’s theme: ‘I didn’t know I could do that’.Price: free. Tel: 01543 262223, web: www.lichfieldarts.org.uk

LOUNGE ON THE FARM
Where: Merton Farm, Canterbury, Kent
When: 11-13 July
What: Lightspeed Champion, The Bees, Art Brut, Black Kids, Jon Carter, Dub Pistols Sound System, Sargasso Trio, Pete Molinari, Kevin Rowland (DJ Set) and many more kick off in the garden of England. Price: £85 adult w/e. Web: www.loungeonthefarm.co.uk

LOCAL EVENT
NAILSEA BEER AND CIDER FESTIVAL
Where: Nailsea & Backwell Rugby Club, nr Bristol
When: 11-13 July
What: Over 50 beers and ciders plus live music from local bands, plus side stalls and attractions for the whole family. Last year the event was drunk dry… twice! Share of profits goes to Nailsea MS Centre. Price: 3-day ticket £6 adv, £7.50 on gate, includes commemorative glass and free drink. Tel: 01275 810818, web: www.applefest.co.uk

LOCAL EVENT
PRIDDY FOLK FAYRE
Where: Priddy, Somerset
When: 11-13 July
What: Hey nonny no, high on the magnificent Mendip Hills. Friendly, impossibly pretty local folk fest with sets by Last Night’s Fun, Mike Silver & Johnny Coppin, Nancy Kerr & James Fagan, Lisa Knapp, Wizz Jones, Tom McConville, Isambarde and loads more, plus ceilidhs, Late Nite Bops, Meet The Artist events, dance festival, children’s festival, craft fayre, workshops, singarounds and so on. Price: £48 adult, day tickets, concs, camping extra. Tel: 01749 674080, web: www.priddyfolk.org

SMALL NATIONS FESTIVAL
Where: Glangwenlais Farm, Cilycwm, Llandovery, Carmarthenshire
When: 11-13 July
What: A celebration of the music of Wales and other small nations with a 1,500 capacity and - fact fans - close proximity to Little Britain’s Llandewi Brefi. This year’s line-up includes: Wales’s Sicknote, Yucatan and Ember; Mali’s Bassekou Kouyate & Ngoni Ma; Kurdistan’s Bamo; and Guinea’s N’Faly Kouyate. Price: £60 adult w/e. Tel: 01550 720321, web: www.smallnations.co.uk

T IN THE PARK
Where: Balado, Kinross, Scotland
When: 11-13 July
What: Scotland’s big, big, big one, which this year has secured signatures from The Verve, Stereophonics, KT Tunstall, Newton Faulkner and Chemical Brothers (Fri), Rage Against The Machine, The Fratellis, Kaiser Chiefs, The Raconteurs and The Kooks (Sat) and REM, Kings of Leon, Amy Winehouse (we’ll see), Counting Crows and The Prodigy (Sun). And many more. Plus ceilidh, funfair, silent disco. Sold out, as ever, in record-breaking time, but you can register online for competitions. Price: sold out. Tel: 0870 169 0100, web: www.tinthepark.com
WAYS WITH WORDS LITERATURE FESTIVAL
Where: Dartington Hall, Devon
When: 11-20 July
What: Tremendously high-calibre 10-day book bash set in the utterly charming medieval Dartington Hall and surrounding green acres. No names announced as yet but expect literary A-listers aplenty. Price: tbc, but will range from single event tickets to accommodation for the whole 10 days. Tel: 01803 867373, web: www.wayswithwords.co.uk

GUILFEST
Where: Stoke Park, Guildford, Surrey
When: 13-15 July
What: The Levellers, Blondie and The Australian Pink Floyd headline this eclectic and defiantly independent Surrey three-dayer. Plus comedy, theatre, arts & crafts and caterers from around the world, and a great KidZone featuring circus tent, street theatre, craft activities and fairground. Price: £100 adult w/e inc camping, day tickets. Tel: 01483 454159, web: www.guilfest.co.uk

MARLBOROUGH JAZZ FESTIVAL
Where: Various venues, Marlborough, Wilts
When: 13-15 July
What: Anyone who’s anyone in contemporary jazz seems to descend on this pretty market town once a year for three days of cheerful tootling and scatting: this year Clare Teal, and the Red Stripe Band are amongst the bookings. “A mini New Orleans,” quoth the Sunday Telegraph. Price: tbc. Tel: 01672 515095, web: www.marlboroughjazz.co.uk

HEBRIDEAN CELTIC FESTIVAL
Where: Lewis Castle and An Lanntair arts centre, Stornoway, Isle of Lewis, Scotland
When: 16-19 July
What: Aka ‘HebCelt’, this massive Hebridean ceilidh (non-camping) is now in its 12th year. The Saw Doctors, Shooglenifty, Seth Lakeman, Red Hot Chilli Pipers and Karine Polwart lead a heavily Celtic/folksy line-up. Stunning setting, family-friendly vibe and lots of informal after-parties. Price: tbc. Tel: 01851 621 234, web: www.hebceltfest.com

LARMER TREE FESTIVAL
Where: Larmer Tree Gardens, Tollard Royal, nr Salisbury
When: 16-20 July
What: Sedate and grown-up fest set within beautiful Victorian gardens boasting eastern temples, pagodas and peacocks. Jools Holland returns for the 4709th year running, along with The Levellers, Orchestra Baobab, Taraf De Haidouks, Tinariwen and loads more world/roots/festie types. Food, bars, global bazaar, therapies, panoramic views and hot showers, too. Stay one, two, three, four or the full five days. Price: £172 adult 5-day, concs, day tickets. Tel: 01725 552300, web: www.larmertreefestival.co.uk

LATITUDE FESTIVAL
Where: Henham Park, Southwold, Suffolk
When: 17-20 July
What: In its third year and now fully established as the dream festival for middle-class clever clogs. And it’s huge. Music across three stages: Franz Ferdinand, Sigur Ros, Interpol, amongst others. BAFTA and Mark Lamarr are involved in the film tent; Bill Bailey, Ross Noble and Rich Hall are on the comedy bill; writers Iain Banks, Hanif Kureishi, AL Kennedy and Irvine Welsh tussle in the Literary Arena; there’s drama from the Royal Court and Bush Theatres and ballet from Sadler’s Wells; and Guilty Pleasures do record playing. Plus cabaret, children’s stuff, gondola rides on the lake and - mercifully - deckchairs in which to snooze off the inevitable culture hangover. Price: £130 adult w/e with camping, day tickets. Tel: 0870 231 0821, web: www.latitudefestival.com

LOCAL EVENT
FOREST TOUR: JOOLS HOLLAND & HIS RHYTHM & BLUES ORCHESTRA
Where: National Arboretum, Westonbirt, nr Tetbury, Glos
When: 18 July
What: Jools owns it when it comes to the summer concert scene and returns to Westonbirt again this year with the reliability of a foot-and-mouth scare. This year the ubiquitous big band boss drags a collection of divas (including Gilson Lavis, Marc Almond, Ruby Turner and Louise Marshall) out to help him plug new album ‘Best Of Friends’. Price: £30. Tel: 01842 814612, web: www.forestry.gov.uk/music

BRAMPTON LIVE
Where: William Howard Centre, Brampton, Carlisle
When: 18-20 July
What: Cumbria-based folk, blues and world get-together with three stages starring such rootsy luminaries as Richard Thompson, Seth Lakeman, Bellowhead, Show Of Hands and Kila. Plus workshops, bars, food, market and kids’ stuff. Price: £65 adult w/e. Tel: 01228 618718, web: www.bramptonlive.net

LOCAL EVENT
THE BRISTOL DO
Where: Portland Sq, Circomedia church and St Pauls Park, Bristol
When: 18-20 July
What: A major, new, totally free outdoor arts event, including classic street acts, new shows by Bristol artists, inc Desperate Men, Invisible Circus and Pickled Image. Plus great new shows from around the UK, including a parkour theatre piece by Brighton’s Prodigal Theatre, a dance piece from Manchester’s Walk the Plank and Company Fierce, and the Royal Rarhi Chhou Dancers from Rajasthan. Food, drink, ambling bands and great family day on Sunday, too. Price: free. Tel: 0117 922 4665, email: Claire.Teasdale@Bristol.gov.uk, web: www.thebristoldo.com

CAMP BESTIVAL
Where: Lulworth Castle, Dorset
When: 18-20 July
What: Groovy new sister shebang of Rob and Josie Da Bank’s Bestival (see 5-7 Sept) set on Dorset’s dramatic Jurassic coast, and with a strong family slant. Giant kids’ area featuring a sports day, storytelling, campfires, insect circus, summer party, dressing-up antics and animal farm. Flaming Lips, Chuck Berry, Kate Nash, The Imagined Village, Suzanne Vega, King Creosote and more. Plus comedy, spoken word, theatre, films, cocktails and fireworks. Price: £120 adult w/e. Web: www.campbestival.co.uk

FESTIVAL AT THE EDGE
Where: Stokes Barn, Much Wenlock, Shropshire
When: 18-20 July
What: International storytellers spinning their yarns through performance, music, comedy, poetry and related arts. Join in with workshops, story rounds and sessions (some of them around a bonfire until dawn!). Plus new commissions, craft and food stalls and children’s entz. Price: £65 adult w/e b4 31 May, £70 after, concs, day tickets. Tel: 01939 236626, web: www.festivalattheedge.org

GLADE FESTIVAL
Where: Secret location revealed on purchase of tickets, Berkshire
When: 18-20 July
What: Glastonbury dance spin-off (and biggest UK festie without sponsorship), Glade raves on, bringing you techno, breaks, house, electronica, dub, ambient and more across 12 stages in three days. Line-up and location both secret until ticket purchase to cut down on gatecrashers and theft. No teens (ages 13-17) allowed. Price: £125 adult w/e. Email: 2008@gladefestival.com, web: www.gladefestival.com

GUILDTOWN BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL
Where: Guildtown, Perthshire, Scotland
When: 18-20 July
What: Founded in 1987 for and by local aficionados and practitioners of bluegrass, this is a real village affair sponsored by the village pub, with events in the village hall and camping on the village green. Top American and European names in the bluegrass world, including Special Consensus (USA) and Country Cocktail (CZ) plus more tbc. Price: £35 adult w/e inc camping. Tel: 01259 214908, web: www.scottishbluegrass.com

LOSSIEMOUTH FOLK WEEKEND
Where: The Beach Bar, Lossiemouth, Moray, Scotland
When: 18-20 July
What: 25th anniversary for this cheerful, unpretentious (and free) local folk fest at a pleasant waterside watering hole. “All the entertainment is provided by whoever wants to play, sing, tell stories, recite poetry and keep the tradition of music, song and story alive,” they say. Includes singarounds, sessions and children’s events. Campers must check in with the landlord of the Beach Bar on arrival. Price: free. Web: www.lossiefolkclub.co.uk

NOZSTOCK
Where: Bromyard, Herefordshire
When: 18-20 July
What: Hayseed Dixie and Utah Saints headline this three-stage community job, which also boasts acoustic area, theatre/jazz tent, and two dance arenas providing hip-hop, drum & bass and trance through to the early hours. Don’t miss the vintage tractor arena! Price: £40 adult w/e. Web: www.nozstock.com

CAMBRIDGE SUMMER MUSIC FESTIVAL
Where: Various venues, Cambridge
When: 18 July-9 Aug
What: Sedate series of classical concerts including Puccini’s ‘Gianni Schicchi’ and cellists Cellophany. Price: various. Tel: 01223 357851, web: www.cambridgesummermusic.com

LOCAL EVENT
FOREST TOUR: KATHERINE JENKINS
Where: National Arboretum, Westonbirt, nr Tetbury, Glos
When: 19 July
What: Comely Welsh classical crossover wench flexes her larynx in the open air. Support from operatic boy band Blake. Price: £28.50. Tel: 01842 814612, web: www.forestry.gov.uk/music

LOVEBOX WEEKENDER
Where: Victoria Park, London
When: 19-20 July
What: Brilliant boutique groove fest, started in 2003, set in 20 acres of mature London parkland and hosted by Groove Armada (who naturally also perform). Plus Flaming Lips, Goldfrapp, The Human League, Jack Penate, Roni Size and The Young Knives and tons more, as well as secondary stages dedicated to different genres, and loads of fun stuff on the sidelines. No camping. Price: £65 w/e adv. Web: www.loveboxlondon.com

TRUCK FESTIVAL
Where: Hill Farm, Steventon, Oxfordshire
When: 19-20 July
What: Postponed last year due to torrential rain, the admirable Truck started, quite literally, on the back of a farm truck in 1997 and is one of the fastest-growing festivals for yer earnest young muso. The full line-up is never announced in advance, although you can count on Camera Obscura, Ian Maclagan (Small Faces) And The Bump Band, Noah And The Whale, Emmy The Great, The Coal Porters and The Television Personalities. A few new stages this year and, as ever, food by the local Rotary Club. Price: £60 adult w/e. Web: www.thisistruck.com

LOCAL EVENT
T4 ON THE BEACH
Where: Weston-super-Mare, Somerset
When: 20 July
What: Fourth year at WSM, with T4 presenters introducing assorted flavours-of-the-month to 30,000 revellers plus a few more on Channel 4 and E4. Line-up tbc. Price: free. Web: www.channel4.com/t4

THE BRITISH INTERNATIONAL MOTOR SHOW
Where: ExCel, London
When: 23 July-3 Aug
What: Two weeks, 600 cars, 60 marquees and half a million expected visitors. Evening gigs from UB40 (23 July), Alice Cooper (24 July), Status Quo (25 July), Squeeze (26 July), Here & Now 80s Show (27 July), Deep Purple (30 July), Chicago (31 July), Jools Holland & Marc Almond (1 Aug) and Meat Loaf (2 Aug). Price: various. Web: www.britishmotorshow.co.uk

ROCK & BLUES CUSTOM SHOW
Where: Catton Hall, Walton-on-Trent, Derbyshire
When: 24-27 July
What: New venue for Europe’s number one motorcycle-and-music show. Park your Harley or Hotrod safely next to your tent and head off to enjoy live bands of the hairy variety (Glenn Hughes, Magnum, Hanoi Rocks, Blackfoot, Molly Hatchet et al), the custom bike show, stunt displays, tattoo competition, Miss Bikini Babe and Mr Beer Belly Contests and, new for 2008, ‘Axe Factor’ and The World’s Hottest Chilli Dog Eating Competition. “No imitation firearms.” You got that? Price: £35 adult w/e adv. Web: www.rockandblues.uk.com

LOCAL EVENT
TROWBRIDGE VILLAGE PUMP FESTIVAL
Where: Stowford Manor Farm, Wingfield, Trowbridge, Wilts
When: 24-27 July
What: One of the most picturesque festivals around these parts and a big hit with local families. Top-drawer folk line-up featuring Don McLean, Little Feat, Richard Thompson, Alabama 3, Andy Fairweather Low, Oysterband, Show Of Hands, Cara Dillon, Jackie Leven and gazillions more. Three stages, four tents (three of ’em beer), and one of the best children’s programmes in festivalworld. All this and a 14th-century castle and a river you can swim in. Price: £95 adult four-day ticket b4 1 July, £105 after, concs, day tickets. Tel: 01225 769132, web: www.trowbridgefestival.co.uk

EVOLVE
Where: Lodmoor Park, Weymouth, Dorset
When: 25-26 July
What: Newcomer aimed at families as well as music enthusiasts. Lou Rhodes, 3 Daft Monkeys, Pronghorn, Show of Hands and others perform, and there are also dance displays, workshops, demonstrations and market trade area. No camping. Price: £30 adult w/e. Web: www.evolvefestival.co.uk

GLOBAL GATHERING
Where: Long Marston Airfield, nr Stratford upon Avon, Warwickshire
When: 25-26 July
What: ’Ave it!! The world’s biggest dance festival sets up the state-of-the-art lighting rigs for another year. Kanye West takes the headline slot while Moby, Mark Ronson, Armin Van Buuren, Robyn, Felix Da Housecat, Eric Prydz et al join old timers like John Digweed and Sasha for an entire glorious weekend of big-fish-little-fish. There’s also Global (shopping), Adrenaline (rides) and Chill Out (massage etc) ‘villages’, an open-air cinema, fairground and loads more. Over-18s only, kids. New for 2008: whopping VIP area with own entertainment bill, artist signings and ‘golden circle’. Price: £115 adult w/e, VIP tickets. Tel: 0871 789 1010, web: www.globalgathering.co.uk

WICKERMAN FESTIVAL
Where: East Kirkcarswell, Dundrennan, Scotland
When: 25-26 July
What: Inspired by the classic 1973 film starring Edward Woodward, this cultish affair - a sort of Scottish Burning Man - culminates in the spectacular burning of a 30ft willow and straw effigy at midnight. Music on the ‘Summerisle’ main stage from Dodgy, Dub Pistols, The Cuban Brothers, Alabama 3, Damien Dempsey, Hugh Cornwell and others. Plus acoustic village, reggae tent, scooter tent, ska-punk, world and dance stages. Price: £75 adult w/e inc camping, day tickets. Tel: 01382 836816; web: www.thewickermanfestival.co.uk

LOCAL EVENT
INTERNATIONAL GYPSY GUITAR FESTIVAL
Where: Gossington, nr Slimbridge, Glos
When: 25-27 July
What: Take your guitar, fiddle or double bass and participate in this informal celebration of gypsy guitar music, now in its eighth year. Sets from leading exponents of traditional - and not so traditional - styles from across the world, Stochelo and Mozes Rosenberg and Feigeli Prisor amongst them. Plus masterclasses and jam sessions taking place throughout the weekend. Beer tent. Camping, but no showers. Very family-friendly. Prices: £28 adult w/e. Web: www.iggf.co.uk

LOCAL EVENT
PERFECT DAY FESTIVAL & GARDEN PARTY
Where: Bowood House, Calne, Wilts
When: 25-27 Jul
What: ‘Calne gets cool’ alert! Acts confirmed so far include The Feeling, Joan Armatrading, Cerys Matthews, Ben’s Brother, Joe Brown, Kate Rusby, Reverend And The Makers and The Blessing. Plus Big Top cabaret, circus, comedy club, fun fair, green fayre, traditional English garden party antics, sideshows, hot air balloon rides (weather permitting). Lovely stately home setting but seemingly no camping. Price: £119 adult w/e. Web: http://tinyurl.com/5pq25y

WARWICK FOLK FESTIVAL
Where: Warwick School, Warwick, Warwickshire
When: 25-27 July
What: Bellowhead, Oysterband, Bob Fox, Nizlopi, Roy Bailey and Tony Benn are amongst the acts appearing at this highly regarded folk event, which also features a percussion convention, workshops, dances, ceilidhs, free fringe events in the town centre and a diverse programme of children’s entertainment. Price: £62 adult w/e b4 16 June, £74 after, concs, day tickets. Tel: 01926 614932, web: www.warwickfolkfestival.co.uk

LOCAL EVENT
WOMAD
Where: Charlton Park, Malmesbury, Wilts
When: 25-27 July
What: Full name ‘World of Music, Arts and Dance’, founded by Peter Gabriel in 1982 and now a worldwide brand staging events as far away as Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, the Canary Islands and Sicily. Over 70 acts from more than 40 countries on indoor and outdoor stages. This year’s line-up includes ltai Kai (Altai Republic, Inner Mongolia), Bedouin Jerry Can Band (Egypt), Chic (USA), David D’Or (Israel), Eddy Grant (Guyana), Kasai All Stars (Congo), Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry (Jamaica), Little Feat (USA), Mavis Staples (USA), Squeeze (UK) and Toumani Diabate (Mali). There’s also an Irish ceilidh with Damien Dempsey and Shane MacGowan, Sufi Night, percussion and dance workshops and a Taste Café. Price: £125 w/e inc camping, day tickets (Sun only), under-13s free. Tel: 0845 146 1735 or www.womad.org/charltonpark

LOCAL EVENT
BATH INTERNATIONAL GUITAR FESTIVAL
Where: Bath Spa University, Newton St Loe, Bath
When: 25 July-9 Aug
What: Fasten your capos for Europe’s number one summer school for guitar, drums and voice. Workshops covering rock, pop, blues, funk, jazz, acoustic fingerstyle, classical and flamenco, run by various leading names, plus guest performances. Special rock camps for ages 11-18. Price: various. Tel: 01225 875522, web: www.igf.org.uk

LOCAL EVENT
BOOGIE FOR BRIZZLE
Where: Bristol Zoo Gardens, Clifton, Bristol
When: 26 July
What: Bristol Zoo’s annual summer extravaganza of exceptional entertainment and fun returns. A family-friendly event featuring live music from the local area and further afield. Price: tbc, c£10 (£6 kids) adv. Tel: 0117 974 7307. Web: www.bristolzoo.org.uk

INDIE TRACKS INDIEPOP FESTIVAL
Where: Butterley Station, Butterley Hill, Ripley, Derbyshire
When: 26-27 July
What: Cute idea. Old school C60-type indie flavours from The Wedding Present, Comet Gain, Darren Hayman, Milky Wimpshake, The Bobby McGees and more, all taking place in a heritage steam railway station. Indie pop disco to close! Campsite close by. Price: £45 adult w/e. Web: www.indietracks.co.uk

LOCAL EVENT
GLOUCESTER INTERNATIONAL RHYTHM & BLUES FESTIVAL
Where: Various venues, Gloucester
When: 26 July-3 Aug
What: Series of old-school R’n’B concerts from fantastically named and well-respected outfits like Jon Cleary And The Absolute Monster Gentlemen, Mike Sanchez And The Portions and The Big Blues Tribe taking place in pubs and various outdoor spaces across the city. Price: various. Tel: 01452 412828; web: www.gloucesterblues.co.uk
EDEN SESSIONS: KT TUNSTALL
Where: Eden Project, St Austell, Cornwall
When: 27 July
What: The Scottish rock diva heads south west to belt out ‘Suddenly I See’, ‘Black Horse And The Cherry Tree’ and songs from latest album ‘Drastic Fantastic’ amongst the exotic flora. Tickets include admission to Eden Project. Price: £28. Tel: 01726 811911, web: www.edenproject.com

CAMBRIDGE FOLK FESTIVAL
Where: Cherry Hinton Hall, Cambridge
When: 31 July-3 Aug
What: Broadcast on Radio 2, this is the folk festival all other folk festivals look up to - and always with a prestigious international line-up. This year such notables as KD Lang, Joan Armatrading, The Levellers, Billy Bragg, John Hiatt, Judy Collins, Martha Wainwright, The Waifs, Altan, Peatbog Faeries, Laura Marling and Tim O’Brien tiptoe through the falafel-strewn fields to the stage. Plus youth area, workshops, sessions, signing tent, creche, cafe, and children’s entz. Tickets go on sale 9am Sun 11 May. Price: £100 adult w/e, day tickets. Tel: 01223 357851, web: www.cambridgefolkfestival.co.uk

WICKHAM FESTIVAL/STOKES BAY FESTIVAL
Where: Wickham, nr Fareham, Hampshire
When: 31 July-3 Aug
What: Stunning views across the Solent and the English Channel to the Isle of Wight are just one of the draws at this folksy 5,000-capacity bash with a great reputation for safety and friendliness. This year you’ve got The Levellers, The Saw Doctors, Capercaillie, Bellowhead, Phill Jupitus & The Blockheads, Glenn Tilbrook & The Fluffers and more stepping up to the mic, plus children’s fun, theatre, cinema, and ‘Posh Wash’ showers. Price: £100 adult w/e, day tickets, concs. Tel: 01329 231942, web: www.wickhamfestival.co.uk

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