JULY

SCOTTISH TRADITIONAL BOAT FESTIVAL
Where: Portsoy, Aberdeenshire, Scotland
When: 2-5 July
What: The largest collection of trad sailing boats in Scotland, but also plenty of live folk and ceilidh music, dance and drama, as well as crafts, food and kids’ activities. This year’s them is ‘Homecoming Scotland’ Price: various, many free. Tel: 01261 842951, web: www.stbf.bizland.com/2008/

MANCHESTER INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL
Where: Various venues, Manchester
When: 2-19 July
What: Illustrious newcomer to the British arts-fest scene, declared by some to be a rival to Edinburgh’s crown. This year’s reliably highbrow line-up includes the debut of Rufus Wainwright’s opera ‘Prima Donna’; a walk-through theatre/music/documentary show inspired by ‘Mad Men’-era America; a concert by Kraftwerk and Steve Reich in the Manchester Velodrome; live performance art from Marina Abramovic; Bach in a swooshy new (temporary) Zaha Hadid music hall; Antony & The Johnsons, De La Soul, and Laurie Anderson & Lou Reed; The Royal Exchange Theatre; an open-to-all ‘Mancunian procession’ lead by Turner-winner Jeremy Deller; and the thrilling prospect of Elbow live with the Hallé Orchestra. Phew. Price: various, some free. Web: www.mif.co.uk

BLUR
Where: Hyde Park, London
When: 3 July
What: Graham Coxon, Alex James, Dave Rowntree and Damon Albarn take time out from making cheese/Chinese operas to sing ‘Beetlebum’ and ‘Country House’ again. Hooray! Price: £45. Web: www.livenation.co.uk

MUSIC FOR AFRICA
Where: Montacute House, nr Yeovil, Somerset
When: 3-4 July
What: Back for a fifth 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 The (official) Blues Brothers Tribute from the West End, The Hamsters and Rob Koral & Zoe Schwarz. Plus real ale beer tent and plenty of food, crèche and bouncy castle. This year there’s a USA theme: “Dress as Elvis, Blues Bros or Barack Obama – if you dare”. Price: £30 three-night ticket, day tickets, concs. Tel: 01935 845946, web: www.musicforafrica.org.uk

BLISSFIELDS
Where: Bradley Farm, Alresford, Hampshire
When: 3-5 July
What: One of last summer’s rain casualties and now back in its original home, this friendly 1,000-capacity do boasts a carnival atmosphere which won it the Best Small Festival 2007 category at the UK Festival Awards. Super Furry Animals, Soweto Kinch, Laura Marling and The Men They Couldn’t Hang join a busy musical line-up and there are workshops, and children’s/family stuff including a shaded area with ropes and swings. Fun election for President of the United States of Blissfields and fancy dress on a ‘Nations Of The World’ theme. Price: £41 adult w/e, day tickets. Web: www.blissfields.co.uk

GODIVA FESTIVAL
Where: War Memorial Park, Coventry
When: 3-5 July
What: Free, ticketless affair attracting 60,000 people annually and always a few decent name bands (Idlewild are confirmed for this year) across three stages. As its name suggests, the centrepiece of this Midlands get-together is a girl in the buff on a horse à la Lady Godiva. Expect street entertainment and lots of family/kids activities too. No camping. Price: free. Tel: 024 76294525, web: www.godivafestival.co.uk

HOP FARM FESTIVAL
Where: Hop Farm Country Park, Tonbridge, Kent
When: 3-5 July
What: Launched last year (as A Day At The Hop Farm) by Mean Fiddler mogul Vince Power, this started life as a back-to-basics one-day affair with Neil Young in the headline slot. It’s grown inevitably bigger for 2009, but the “no sponsorship/VIP areas/branding” policy remains admirably unchanged. This year’s acts include Pigeon Detectives, Echo and The Bunnymen, Florence and The Machine, Noah and The Whale, Paul Weller, Editors, Doves, Super Furry Animals and more. Don’t miss the five-a-side celebrity football tournament. Price: £125 adult w/e, day tickets. Web: www.hopfarmfestival.com

TWO RIVERS FOLK FESTIVAL
Where: Chepstow Racecourse and Castle, Chepstow, South Wales
When: 3-5 July
What: Friendly South Wales folk festival with performances from Seth Lakeman, 3 Daft Monkeys, Moondance, The Fos Brothers, Allan Yn Y Fan 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. Price: £40 adult w/e, concs, day tickets. Camping £5. Tel: 07870 611 979; web: www.tworiversfolkfestival.com

LLANFYLLIN MUSIC FESTIVAL
Where: St Myllin’s Church, High St, Llanfyllin, Powys
When: 3, 4, 5, 8, 10 & 12 July
What: Haydn, Mozart, Debussy and more from The Allegri Quartet and Peny-Bont Fawr Male Voice Choir at this festival founded in 1971 by cellist Bruno Schrecker and taking place in a sweet mid-Wales market town. Price: £45 season ticket or £6-£15 for single events. Tel: 01938 500441, web: www.llanfyllinfestival.org.uk

LOCAL EVENT
FROME FESTIVAL
Where: Various venues, Frome
When: 3-12 July
What: The pride of fabulous Frome, and still only nine years old, this annual arts festival always offers a wide-ranging and high-quality blend of rock, classical, folk (look out for The Imagined Village and Levellers this year), world, jazz (for instance, Imelda May), comedy, literature, film, dance, theatre, workshops and kids’ events. Up to 150 events over ten days. Creative director Martin Dimery remains in place after his inauguration last year. Price: various. Tel: 01373 453889, web: www.fromefestival.co.uk

LEDBURY POETRY FESTIVAL
Where: Various venues, Ledbury, Herefordshire
When: 3-12 July
What: The UK’s biggest poetry festival, this year with Patience Agbabi, Widad Benmoussa, Paul Farley, Adam Foulds, Glyn Maxwell, Roger McGough, Ben Okri, Ruth Padel, Kathryn Simmonds, Hugo Williams and
Benjamin Zephaniah among the invited stanza-mongers. As well as talks and readings, there are also workshops, reading groups, one-on-ones, talks, walks, exhibitions and a slam. 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: 3-18 July
What: Internationally renowned classical jamboree. In addition to classical heavy hitters such as Nicola Benedetti (doing Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto), Emma Johnson (Mozart’s Clarinet Quintet) and Stephen Isserlis (Mendelssohn and Schumann), there’s also plenty to mark the 200th anniversary of Haydn’s death with no less than eight famous international string quartets (he invented ’em, y’know), as well as 12 premières, a Jewish music strand, films, talks, excellent family events plus the usual fringe events, free outdoor concerts (include Sat 4’s Fiesta In The Park, in Pittville Park), and more. Price: various. Tel: 01242 227979, web: www.cheltenhamfestivals.co.uk

DANCE ISLAND
Where: Ely, Cambridgeshire
When: 4 July
What: East Anglia’s biggest dance music festival returns with Pendulum topping the main stage plus arenas hosted by club brands and over 60 world-class DJs. Price: £42.50, VIP £67.50. Web: www.dance-island.com

EDEN SESSIONS: KASABIAN
Where: Eden Project, St Austell, Cornwall
When: 4 July
What: Leicester electro-rockers sweat it out in the tropical heat of Eden. Price: £35. Tel: 01726 811972, web: www.edenproject.com

MONARCHY LIVE
When: 4 July
Where: Ragley Hall, Warwickshire
What: Happy Mondays, Supergrass, Reverend & The Makers and more join the bill at this brand-new boutique festival on the Marquess and Marchioness of Hertford’s stately home. If you’re really posh, go for the VVIP tickets which get you access to the Great Hall and its fine wines, champagnes, canapés, sushi and fine foods. Wonder if they’ll let Shaun Ryder in? Price: £55 adult, VIP and VVIP tickets. Web: www.monarchy-live.co.uk

PROM ON THE CLOSE
Where: Clifton College, London
When: 4 July
What: Celeb soprano Natasha Marsh joins tenor Nicky Spence for this annual picnic concert at sunset against the stunning backdrop of Clifton College. They’re ably backed by the Emerald Concert Orchestra, under the baton of Jae Alexander. Fireworks to close. Price: £22.50-£85. Tel: 0870 774 05 77, web: www.promontheclose.com

LOCAL EVENT
ST PAULS CARNIVAL
Where: St Pauls, Bristol
When: 4 July
What: With artistic director Pax Nindi firmly installed at the helm, Bristol’s big street party – now in its 42nd year – settles back into its traditional midsummer slot. Expect traditional carnival ingredients such as massive, colourful floats-and-costumes procession, soundsystems and African and Caribbean food as well as live music and workshops on Grosvenor Green and Portland Square. Culturally speaking, it’s nothing less than a local, national and international treasure. See Venue closer to the date for further details. Price: free. Tel: 0117 944 4176, web:www.stpaulscarnival.co.uk

LOCAL EVENT
THE COTSWOLD SHOW & COUNTRY FAIR
Where: Cirencester Park, Cirencester, Gloucestershire
When: 4-5 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 814089, web: www.cotswoldshow.co.uk

LOCAL EVENT
TRUCKFEST SOUTH WEST
Where: Royal Bath & West Showground, Shepton Mallet, Somerset
When: 4-5 July
What: Loads of lorries, basically, and fat-necked, red-faced men and their kids staring at them. Europe’s largest (for Peterborough, North-East, 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 £14 per day, camping extra. Tel: 01775 768661, web: www.truckfest.co.uk

WIRELESS FESTIVAL
Where: Hyde Park, London
When: 4-5 July
What: Tidy, compact little weekender in the heart of Ver Smoke – great idea if you fancy seeing the fest season’s biggest names without having to listen to a ton of dreary Sunday leaguers first (or, indeed, sleep in a tent). Basement Jaxx, Dizzee Rascal, The Streets and Paul Oakenfold kick things off on the Sat while Sir Kanye Of West takes to the stage on the Sun (Q Tip and Flo Rida support). Plus nice bar areas, markets, games etc. No camping. Price: £40-£45 per day, VIP and ‘club experience’ tickets. Tel: 0871 230 9840, web: www.02wirelessfestival.co.uk

LOCAL EVENT
KEYNSHAM FESTIVAL
Where: Keynsham, nr Bristol
When: 5 July
What: Thanks to Keynsham Town Council’s number-crunchers, this popular one-day community fest marches on into another summer, as pocket-lovingly free as it ever was. 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. Web: www.keynshammusicfestival.co.uk

ROYAL SHOW
Where: Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire
When: 7-10 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: 02476 696969, web: www.royalshow.org.uk

EDEN SESSIONS: RAZORLIGHT
Where: Eden Project, St Austell, Cornwall
When: 9 July
What: Let’s hope cocksure rocker Johnny Borrell doesn’t get grass stains on his tight white jeans at this gig at the world’s biggest greenhouse. Price: £35. Tel: 01726 811972, web: www.edenproject.com

NEWT BEER FESTIVAL
Where: North Newton, nr Taunton, Somerset
When: 10-11 July
What: Country Bum, Piddle In The Wind, Cornish Blonde and Love Monkey – not bands but some of the real ales on offer at Somerset’s biggest beer fest, which originally started as a fundraiser for the local primary school. Plenty of drinking and a live music stage starring party bands like Zen Hussies, Gee Baby I Love You and Queen tribute Mercury. Camping available. Price: tbc. Tel: 01278 663059, web: www.newtbeerfest.com

LOCAL EVENT
BRISTOL WINE AND FOOD FAIR
Where: Harbourside, Bristol
When: 10-12 July
What: Over 11,000 people enjoyed this friendly gastro event last year. This year you’ll find ten-minute free wine tutorials, a wine tasting forum, kids’ cookery classes, children’s activity area, on-site restaurant, wine marquee, new covered seating/bar/restaurant areas. Price: £16.50 adult w/e, day/eve tickets. Web: www.bristolwineandfoodfair.co.uk

ELY FOLK WEEKEND
Where: Ely Outdoor Centre, Ely, Cambridgeshire
When: 10-12 July
What: All the usual suspects at this friendly Fens-based foot-tapper: Peatbog Faeries, Edward II, Eric Bogle & John Munro, Baka Beyond and Tanglefoot, plus workshops, concerts, displays, ceilidhs and children’s entertainment and more. New for 2009: chance to meet artists ‘unplugged’. 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: 10-12 July
What: Free community festival offering music of all types, an acoustic tent for local musicians, art and craft activities for all age, workshops and performances, arts fair and open art exhibition, bar, food and market stalls. This year’s theme: ‘Words & Voices’. Price: free. Tel: 01543 262223, web: www.fuselichfield.org.uk

GUILFEST
Where: Stoke Park, Guildford, Surrey
When: 10-12 July
What: Who said you can’t please all of the people all of the time? Jolly nice programming from this eclectic and defiantly independent Surrey three-dayer. Motörhead and Nouvelle Vague on Fri, Brian Wilson and The Charlatans on Sat, and Happy Mondays and The Wailers on Sun. 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: £110 adult w/e incl camping, day tickets. Tel: 0871 4240050, web: www.guilfest.co.uk

LOUNGE ON THE FARM
Where: Merton Farm, Canterbury, Kent
When: 10-12 July
What: Gong, James Taylor Quartet, Dan Le Sac Vs Scroobius Pip, The Steve Hillage Band and many more play across eight performance areas at this “heavyweight festival with a uniquely local twist” in the garden of England. £85 adult w/e. Web: www.loungeonthefarm.co.uk

MARLBOROUGH JAZZ FESTIVAL
Where: Various venues, Marlborough, Wilts
When: 10-12 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 Julie Felix, Eduardo Niebla and the Red Stripe Band are among the bookings. “A mini New Orleans,” quoth the Sunday Telegraph. Price: £55 adult w/e, day tickets. Tel: 01672 515095, web: www.marlboroughjazz.co.uk

LOCAL EVENT
NAILSEA BEER AND CIDER FESTIVAL
Where: Nailsea & Backwell Rugby club, nr Bristol
When: 10-12 July
What: Over 50 beers and ciders plus live music from local bands, side stalls and attractions for the whole family. Last year the event was nearly drunk dry. Share of profits goes to Children’s Hospice South West. Price: three-day ticket £6 adv, £7.50 on gate, includes commemorative glass and free drink. Tel: 01275 810818, web: www.applefest.co.uk

LOCAL EVENT
NASS (NATIONAL ACTION SPORTS SHOW)
Where: Bath & West Showground, Somerset
When: 10-12 July
What: Gnarly! Sick! Et cetera. Skate, BMX, FMX, inline, parkour and more at this action sports gathering. Over 200 exhibitors, live stage (NERD, Scratch Perverts, Chase & Status and the like this year), ‘adrenaline village’, food and drink and more. New for 2009: public street course and improved dirt course. Price: £64.99 adult w/e, concs, day tickets, under-8s free. Tel: 0844 847 2517, web: www.relentlessnass.com

LOCAL EVENT
PRIDDY FOLK FAYRE
Where: Priddy, Somerset
When: 10-12 July
What: Set in the beautiful Mendip countryside, this friendly folk gathering boasts nine main stage concerts (Lau, Dave Swarbrick’s Lazarus, Jez Lowe & The Bad Pennies, Sara Grey, Martha Tilston and more); two ceilidhs; a Late Nite Bop; two smaller stages; music workshops; traditional craft fair; morris, maypole and Appalachian dancing; and juggling, story telling, puppets, face painting and more for the kids. Or you could just recline with a real ale. Price: £47 adult w/e (until 1 June), day tickets, concs, camping extra. Tel: 01749 674080, web: www.priddyfolk.org

T IN THE PARK
Where: Balado, Kinross, Scotland
When: 10-12 July
What: Scotland’s whopper, this year signing up Kings Of Leon, Franz Ferdinand, Maximo Park, James Morrison and Nick Cave (Fri), The Killers, Rage Against The Machine, The Specials, Lady Gaga and Nine Inch Nails (Sat) and Blur, Snow Patrol, Elbow, Keane and Pet Shop Boys (Sun). And many more. Plus ceilidh, funfair, healthy food tent. Price: weekend camping sold out, day and two-day tickets remain. Tel: 0870 169 0100, web: www.tinthepark.com

WAKESTOCK (ABERSOCH)
Where: Abersoch, Cardigan Bay, Wales
When: 10-12 July
What: Tenth anniversary for the adrenaline-pumped wakeboarding (like waterskiing, but on a surfboard) festival. This year Moby, The Zutons, Chase & Status and Red Light Company perform at the stunning Cardigan Bay site and there are amateur and pro competitions at nearby Pwllheli Marina. Expect lots of fake tan, expensive shades and Gio Goi t-shirts. But 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: 10-12 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. Price: £69 adult w/e, under 12s free. Web: www.workhousefestival.co.uk

YORK EARLY MUSIC FESTIVAL
Where: Various venues, York
When: 10-18 July
What: Know your sackbuts from your psalteries? Then this event dedicated to music from the Middle Ages if for you. ‘Lifelines’ is the theme of this year’s YEMF, which welcomes guest artists such as the The Tallis Scholars, I Fagiolini, The Sixteen and The Academy of Ancient Music. Price: various. Tel: 01904 658338, web: www.ncem.co.uk/yemf.shtml

WAYS WITH WORDS LITERATURE FESTIVAL
Where: Dartington Hall, Devon
When: 10-19 July
What: Aesthetically lovely and generally high-calibre ten-day book bash set in the charming medieval Dartington Hall and surrounding green acres. No names announced as yet but expect literary A- & B-listers aplenty. Price: tbc, but will range from single event tickets to accommodation for the whole ten days. Tel: 01803 867373, web: www.wayswithwords.co.uk

BUXTON FESTIVAL
Where: Various venues, Buxton, Derbyshire
When: 10-28 July
What: Over 120 highbrow classical concerts and literary talks in the delightful Peak District. This year’s highlights include the Northern Chamber Orchestra, Freddy Kempf, Natalie Clein and the Amsterdam String Quartet. Ticket prices are the most reasonable in the country for opera. Joan Bakewell, Kate Atkinson and Fiona Millar talk about their latest books. Price: various. Tel: 01298 70395, web: www.buxtonfestival.co.uk

LOCAL EVENT
NORTH NIBLEY MUSIC FESTIVAL
Where: North Nibley, Gloucestershire
When: 11 July
What: Best line-up yet for this tiny village affair. John Otway, The Fancy Toys, The Roseville Band and many more play across two stages. There’s also a family zone (bouncy castle, workshops, crafts. stories, etc) and lashings of real ale. Price: £12 adult. Web: www.nibleyfestival.co.uk

LOCAL EVENT
SOUTHMEAD CARNIVAL
Where: Southmead, Bristol
When: 11 July
What: Colourful community event with a procession of floats drawn from local schools and much more.

LEONARD COHEN
Where: Mercedes-Benz World, Weybridge, Surrey
When: 11 July
What: First we take Weybridge…. In his only outdoor concert this year, the trilby-wearing legend performs hits like ‘Hallelujah’, ‘Bird On The Wire’ and ‘Suzanne’, in the incongruously boy-racery environs of Mercedes-Benz World. Prices: £65 and £55. Tel: 0844 847 2496, web: www.ticketmaster.co.uk

CORNBURY MUSIC FESTIVAL
Where: Cornbury Park, Charlbury, Oxfordshire
When: 11-12 July
What: Middlebrow yet impressively diverse music fest. This year Scouting For Girls, Sharleen Spiteri, Sugababes, The Pretenders, The Damned, The Magic Numbers, Joe Jackson and Teddy Thompson all rock the Cotswolds. There are also hot-air balloons, morris dancing, a farmers’ market with a dancefloor, fairground, theatre workshops, arts and crafts, and speciality shops, too. Free to OAPs! Insert own Scouting For Glasses gag here. Price: £90 adult w/e with camping, day tickets, VIP tickets. Tel: 07917 586 837, web: www.cornburyfestival.com

EDEN SESSIONS: OASIS
Where: Eden Project, St Austell, Cornwall
When: 14 July
What: Champagne supernovas Liam ‘n’ Noel shove the fookin’ agapanthus out of the way as part of the Dig Out Your Soul tour. Price: Sold out. Tel: 01726 811972, web: www.edenproject.com

HEBRIDEAN CELTIC FESTIVAL
Where: Lewis Castle and An Lanntair Arts Centre, Stornoway, Isle of Lewis, Scotland
When: 15-18 July
What: Aka ‘HebCelt’, this massive Hebridean ceilidh (non-camping) is now in its 13th year. La Bottine Souriante, Sharon Shannon Big Band, Karen Matheson, Michael McGoldrick Band, The Wilders and Fred Morrison lead a heavily Celtic/folksy line-up. Stunning setting, family-friendly vibe and lots of informal after parties. Price: £59 adult w/e, day tickets. Tel: 01851 621 234, web: www.hebceltfest.com

GLADE FESTIVAL
Where: Secret location nr Winchester, Hampshire
When: 16-19 July
What: Underworld, Booka Shade, Squarepusher, Femi Kuti, Nitin Sawhney and more converge on this successful Glastonbury dance area spin-off pumping with techno, breaks, house, electronica, dub, ambient and more. Location revealed with ticket purchase. New for 2009: new venue enabling later music curfew, and new music ‘villages’ Carmageddon and Avalon. Price: £125 adult w/e. Web: www.gladefestival.com

LATITUDE FESTIVAL
Where: Henham Park, Southwold, Suffolk
When: 16-19 July
What: Pioneering middle-class kultchah fest, now in its fourth year and brandishing top names in contemporary music, film, comedy, theatre, cabaret, dance, poetry, literature and art. Oldsters Pet Shop Boys, Grace Jones and Nick Cave head up the music bill, with an army of young cult sorts at their heels, while the Royal Shakespeare Company, National Theatre, Sadlers Wells and the Royal Opera House, Blake Morrison, Julie Myerson (put those doobies away, kids!), Andrew Motion and Brian Patten provide some sit-down time in which to eat your falafel wrap. Price: £150 adult w/e with camping, day tickets. Tel: 0870 231 0821, web: www.latitudefestival.com

LARMER TREE FESTIVAL
Where: Larmer Tree Gardens, Tollard Royal, Wiltshire/Dorset border
When: 14-18 July
What: Larmer Tree Festival once again returns to the beautiful Wiltshire/Dorset border to deliver world-class music, innovative street theatre, hilarious comedy, family-friendly workshops and so much more! This year will be the festival’s 20th anniversary, and to celebrate they have just announced some incredible musical talents for the 5 day celebration, including  Jools Holland and his Rhythm and Blues Orchestra with special guest Alison Moyet, acoustic innovator Newton Faulkner, reggae legends Toots and the Maytals and renowned blues guitarist Robert Cray.

Tickets for all five days are priced at just £184 for adults, £152 for 11-17 year olds and £124 for 5-10 year olds, with entrance for under fives free of charge. For more information please see www.larmertreefestival.co.uk.

LOCAL EVENT
FOREST TOUR: DAVID GRAY
Where: National Arboretum, Westonbirt, nr Tetbury, Gloucestershire
When: 17 July
What: If you want it, come and get it, for crying out loud. The voice of ‘Babylon’ and ‘Sail Away’ unfurls itself among the rare trees. Price: £31.50. Tel: 01842 814612, web: www.forestry.gov.uk/music

LOCAL EVENT
TWO THOUSAND TREES FESTIVAL
Where: Upcote Farm, Withington, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire
When: 17-18 July
What: Nominated for ‘Best Small Festival’ at last year’s UK Festival Awards (and highly rated by The Guardian to boot), this green, ethical Cotswold-based event was launched by a group of friends two years ago and 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 British Sea Power, Red Light Company, Frank Turner, Bristol’s own beautiful Let’s Tea Party and Babel and the brilliantly-named Danananackroyd. Family-friendly atmosphere. Price: £47 adult w/e. Web: www.twothousandtreesfestival.co.uk

BRAMPTON LIVE
Where: William Howard Centre, Brampton, Carlisle
When: 17-19 July
What: Cumbria-based folk, blues and world get-together, now under new, independent, not-for-profit management, starring such musicmakers as Barbara Dickson, Drever/McCusker/Woomble (with special guests Heidi Talbot & Boo Hewerdine), Andy Fairweather Low, Peatbog Faeries, Oysterband and Mary Gauthier. Plus workshops, bars, food, market and kids’ stuff. Price: £70 adult w/e. Tel: 01228 618718, web: www.bramptonlive.net

FESTIVAL AT THE EDGE
Where: Stokes Barn, Much Wenlock, Shropshire
When: 17-19 July
What: FATE is an international storytelling festival, 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 fair, food, CAMRA beer tent and children’s fun. Oh, and possibly the only Make Your Own Pentatonic Flute workshop in this entire guide. Price: £65 adult w/e b4 31 May, £70 after, concs, day tickets. Tel: 01939 236626, web: www.festivalattheedge.org

LOSSIEMOUTH FOLK WEEKEND
Where: The Beach Bar, Lossiemouth, Moray, Scotland
When: 17-19 July
What: 26th hurrah for this cheerful, unpretentious (and free) 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

CAMBRIDGE SUMMER MUSIC FESTIVAL
Where: Various venues, Cambridge
When: 17 July-8 Aug
What: Sedate series of classical concerts. Price: various. Tel: 01223 862297, web: www.cambridgesummermusic.com

LOCAL EVENT
BOOGIE FOR BRIZZLE
Where: Bristol Zoo Gardens, Clifton, Bristol
When: 18 July
What: Party with the animals at Bristol Zoo’s biggest family friendly festival. Back for another year, this event showcases some of the best local talent plus quality acts from further afield. Past years have seen fabulous live music, street theatre, dance, circus and plenty of kid’s activities including workshops and facepainting. The only night of the year that the entire Zoo stays open.
Proceeds to support of the Year of the Gorilla. Price: £11.50 adult adv, £13.50 gate, concs. Tel: 0117 974 7300. Web: www.bristolzoo.org.uk

EDEN SESSIONS: THE KOOKS
Where: Eden Project, St Austell, Cornwall
When: 18 July
What: ‘Ooh La’, it’s a corporate indie field trip, as Luke Pritchard’s artless mopheads throw their catchy choruses around the leafy biomes. Ladyhawke supports. Tickets include admission to Eden Project. Price: £35. Tel: 01726 811972, web: www.edenproject.com

LOCAL EVENT
FOREST TOUR: VANESSA-MAE
Where: National Arboretum, Westonbirt, nr Tetbury, Gloucestershire
When: 18 July
What: Comely violin superstar and pioneer of the whole classical crossover thang (not to mention the art of fiddling in a wet t-shirt) flies into the Gloucestershire countryside. Price: £29.50. Tel: 01842 814612, web: www.forestry.gov.uk/music

SMALL NATIONS FOREVER
Where: Castle Hotel, Llandovery, Carmarthenshire
When: 18 July
What: With the Small Nations Festival (celebrating the music of Wales and other little countries) taking a break this year, this fundraising event is being held to help ensure its return in 2010. Expect camping, stalls, workshops, and live music in the Castle ballroom. Price: tbc. Tel: 01550 720321, web: www.smallnations.co.uk

LOVEBOX WEEKENDER
Where: Victoria Park, London
When: 18-19 July
What: Voted Best Medium Sized Festival at last year’s UK Festival Awards, this brilliant boutique pop fest was set up in a Hackney park in 2003 to give festival-starved Londoners their own weekend in the beer-drenched grass. Hosts Groove Armada perform alongside Duran Duran, NERD, Florence & The Machine, Ladyhawke and tons more, and there are secondary stages dedicated to other fun stuff. No camping. Price: £75 w/e adv, day tickets. Web: www.lovebox.net

LOCAL EVENT
GREAT WESTERN MINI DAY
Where: Blaise Castle Estate, Bristol
When: 19 July
What: Trade stalls, auto-jumble, 15-Class ‘Great Western Concours’, club stands, live music, games and activities for the Mini fan. Price: £6 adult. Web: www.northavonminidrivers.co.uk/greatwesternminiday.aspx
 

LOCAL EVENT
T4 ON THE BEACH
Where: Weston-super-Mare
When: 19 July
What: Bumper beach party now in its fifth year at good old WsM, with arch-tongued T4 presenters introducing assorted flavours-of-the-month to 30,000 revellers plus a few more on Channel 4 and E4. Line-up tbc (it included Kelly Rowland, Ne-Yo, The Script, Duffy and Sugababes last year). Price: £35. Tel: 01934 888 849Web: www.channel4.com/t4

ROCK & BLUES CUSTOM SHOW
Where: Catton Hall, Walton-on-Trent, Derbyshire
When: 23-25 July
What: Europe’s number one motorcycle-and-music show returns. Park your Harley or Hotrod safely next to your tent and head off to enjoy live bands of the hairy variety, a custom bike show, stunt displays, tattoo competition, Miss Bikini Babe and Mr Beer Belly Contests and the like. Price: tbc, c£35 adult w/e adv. Web: www.rockandblues.uk.com

LOCAL EVENT
TROWBRIDGE VILLAGE PUMP FESTIVAL
Where: Stowford Manor Farm, Wingfield, Trowbridge, Wilts
When: 23-26 July
What: Nestling in the shadow of a 14th-century castle and with a river you can actually swim in, the TVPF is one of the most picturesque festivals, not just locally but nationally too. Internationally known folk/roots acts – including, this year, Shane MacGowan, Ade Edmondson & the Bad Shepherds, Seth Lakeman, Loudon Wainwright III, Alabama 3 and The Saw Doctors – across three marquee stages plus children’s tent, three beer tents and myriad trade stalls selling food and items from all over the world. Price: £105 adult four-day ticket b4 1 July, £115 after, concs, day tickets. Tel: 01225 769132, web: www.trowbridgefestival.co.uk

SECRET GARDEN PARTY
Where: Secret location nr Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire
When: 23-27 July
What: Relaxed not-for-profit four-day party where you’re as likely to find Shakespeare being performed around a fire, or a custard pie battle, or an artist bidding you to make your own sculpture as you are a musical megastar of tomorrow (they were early employers of KT Tunstall and Lily Allen). This year’s strong line-up includes Jarvis Cocker, Rodrigo Y Gabriela, Toots & The Maytals, Emiliana Torrini and Phoenix. Price: £137 adult w/e camping. Ffi: www.secretgardenparty.com

GLOBAL GATHERING
Where: Long Marston Airfield, nr Stratford upon Avon, Warwickshire
When: 24-25 July
What: The world’s biggest dance festival sets up the state-of-the-art lighting rigs for another year. The Prodigy, Orbital and Pendulum join cratediggers like David Guetta and John Digweed for an entire glorious weekend of losing the plot. Shopping, fairground rides and chill out areas and loads more. Over-18s only, kids. Price: £115 adult w/e, VIP and ‘Cloud 9’ tickets. Tel: 0844 847 1551, web: www.globalgathering.co.uk

WICKERMAN FESTIVAL
Where: East Kirkcarswell, Dundrennan, south-west Scotland
When: 24-25 July
What: ‘Kilts and camouflage’ is the fancy dress theme at this year’s Wickerman, a festie inspired – as you may have guessed – by the classic 1973 film. Music on the ‘Summerisle’ main stage comes from Human League, The Zutons, Billy Bragg, Dreadzone, Candi Staton, Utah Saints and others. Plus acoustic village, reggae tent, scooter tent, ska-punk, world and dance stages. All culminates in the spectacular burning of a 30-foot willow-and-straw effigy at midnight. Price: £80 adult w/e incl camping, day tickets. Tel: 01382 836816; web: www.thewickermanfestival.co.uk

PORT ELIOT FESTIVAL
Where: Port Eliot, Cornwall
When: 24-26 July
What: Set in the same spot as the legendary Elephant Fayre back in the ’70s and ’80s, this festival was resurrected six years ago and has built a reputation for being uniquely bohemian. Evan Dando, Noah And The Whale, Richard Strange, Murray Lachlan Young, Edwyn Collins, Gaz Mayall, Marcel Theroux and Simon Munnery are among the entertainers this year. Look out too for the House of Fairytales, set deep in the woodland rhododendron garden, and Hardeep Singh Kholi’s Indian takeaway. Plus literature, dance, fashion, family stuff and much more. Price: £105 adult w/e. www.porteliotfestival.com

CAMP BESTIVAL
Where: Lulworth Castle, Dorset
When: 24-26 July
What: Voted Best New Festival at last year’s UK Festival Awards, this groovy two-year-old little sister of Rob and Josie Da Bank’s Bestival (see 11-13 Sept) is set on Dorset’s dramatic Jurassic coast and has a strong family feel with 100 free activities for children including the Let’s Go Crazy Party Crew. PJ Harvey, Bon Iver, Mercury Rev, Chic and Candi Station play tunes, DJs Derek and Yoda spin discs, Frankie Boyle tells jokes, the English National Ballet pirouette and Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall cooks up a storm. More tbc. “Ooh ah say! In’t it exciting?” squeaks Sue Pollard on the ace Hi-De-Hi themed promo video (do see website). Price: £130 adult w/e with camping/under 12s free. Tel: 0844 8884410, web: www.campbestival.net

INDIE TRACKS
Where: Midland Railway, Butterley, Derbyshire
When: 24-26 July
What: Indie like what it used to be. Launched two years ago, this proudly fey event plays host to names such as The Frank & Walters, BMX Bandits, Camera Obscura, Emmy The Great, Au Revoir Simone and other gentle souls in a heritage steam railway station (train rides available). Outdoor stage given over to Elefant Records to help celebrate their 20th anniversary. Campsite close by. Price: £55 adult w/e, day tickets. Web: www.indietracks.co.uk

LOCAL EVENT
INTERNATIONAL GYPSY GUITAR FESTIVAL
Where: Gossington, nr Slimbridge, Gloucestershire
When: 24-26 July
What: Anyone for ‘Gypsy Idol’? This year’s celebration of gypsy guitar music will feature live auditions for a slot on next year’s main stage. So register via the website, grab your guitar, fiddle or double bass and chance your arm among leading exponents of traditional – and not so traditional – styles from across the world. Expect masterclasses and jam sessions taking place alongside the concerts. Beer tent. Very family-friendly. Prices: £28 adult w/e adv, £33 gate. Web: www.iggf.co.uk

WARWICK FOLK FESTIVAL
Where: Warwick School, Warwick, Warwickshire
When: 24-26 July
What: Kate Rusby, Eric Bogle, Spooky Men’s Chorale and Jim Moray are among 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 diverse programme of children’s entertainment. Price: £65 adult w/e b4 16 June, £74 after, concs, day tickets. Tel: 01926 776438, web: www.warwickfolkfestival.co.uk

LOCAL EVENT
WOMAD
Where: Charlton Park, Malmesbury, Wiltshire
When: 24-26 July
What: First-class world music event founded by Peter Gabriel in 1982, boasting over 70 acts from more than 40 countries. This year’s line-up includes Ethiopiques (Ethiopia), Fat Freddy’s Drop (New Zealand), Solomon Burke (US), Nneka (Nigeria), Oumou Sangaré (Mali), Dhoad Gypsies of Rajasthan (India) and Mad Professor (UK). Returning this year is the ‘Taste the World’ food tent, the Drum and Dance Tent with its yoga and salsa lessons, and superior scrubbing-up at the spa, complete with treatments, spa pools, great showers and a cocktail bar. Vast programme of workshops, entertainment and activities at The World Of Kids, including the magnificent Children’s Parade. Price: £125 w/e incl camping, 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: 24 July-8 Aug
What: Start tuning up 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. Price: various. Tel: 01225 875522, web: www.igf.org.uk

TRUCK FESTIVAL
Where: Hill Farm, Steventon, Oxfordshire
When: 25-26 July
What: Over 12 years, Truck – which started life literally on the back of a truck – has established itself as one of the best small festivals for yer earnest young muso. As usual, no full line-up announcement because “Truck is about discovering your new favourite band, and rediscovering those resident eccentrics on the fringes, while chewing a burger from the Rotary Club or an ice cream from the Vicar, before buying a few pints from those cross-dressing bar staff”. Supergrass and Ash, however, are definites. Price: £70 adult w/e. Tel: 01235 821262, web: www.thisistruck.com

LOCAL EVENT
GLOUCESTER INTERNATIONAL RHYTHM & BLUES FESTIVAL
Where: Various venues, Gloucester
When: 25 July-2 Aug
What: If your woman done gone left you, cheer yourself up with this series of old-school R&B concerts from well-respected names, taking place in pubs and various outdoor spaces across the city. Price: various. Tel: 01452 396755; web: www.gloucesterblues.co.uk

FOLK BY THE OAK
Where: Hatfield, Hertfordshire
When: 26 July
What: One-dayer of contemporary folk from the likes of Kate Rusby, Lau, Kathryn Tickell and Jim Moray in the lovely grounds of Hatfield House.
Price: £29 adult/£14 child/£78 family/under 5s free. Tel: 01432 355 416, web: www.folkbytheoak.com

LOCAL EVENT
BIG GREEN GATHERING
Where: Nr Cheddar
When: 29 July-2 Aug
What: Back after last year’s hiatus, this 20,000-capacity eco festival started life in the ’80s as part of Glastonbury. Offering music, dance, crafts, food and farming, healing, earth energies, permaculture, markets, tipis, fairground, campaigns, sustainable homes and more, everything is solar-, wind- and people-powered. “Unhealthy activities are not encouraged. The only things taken in excess should be love, peace, joy, and friendship.” Price: £125 adult w/e. Tel: 01458 834629, web:www.big-green-gathering.com

CAMBRIDGE FOLK FESTIVAL
Where: Cherry Hinton Hall, Cambridge
When: 30 July-2 Aug
What: The daddy of all folk festivals and now in its 45th year. 2009 brings Lucinda Williams, The Zutons, Los Lobos, The Saw Doctors, Booker T Jones, Paul Brady, Beth Nielsen Chapman, Bellowhead, Cara Dillon, Martin Simpson and more – all broadcast on Radio 2 if you can’t make it in person. Plus youth area, workshops, sessions, signing tent, creche, cafe, and children’s entz. Tickets go on sale 9am Sun 17 May. See website for the Considerate Folkie Guide. Price: £104 adult w/e, day tickets. Tel: 01223 357851, web: www.cambridgefolkfestival.co.uk

PURAVIDA LONG WEEKENDER
Where: Osho Leela, Thorngrove House, Common Mead Lane, Gillingham, Dorset
When: 30 July-2 Aug
What: The UK’s only “conscious clubbing” event. Bands, DJs plus “meditations from the world of Osho and Humaniversity”. Wide variety of workshops, too, including biodanza, bioenergetics, African dance, burlesque dance, Tibetan bowl healing, drumming, yoga and more. Price: £110 w/e incl accommodation and food, concs, day tickets. Ffi: www.puravida.uk.com

STOKES BAY FESTIVAL
Where: Stokes Bay, Hampshire
When: 30 July-2 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 (also sometimes known as Wickham Festival) with a great reputation for safety and friendliness. This year you’ve got The Proclaimers, Seth Lakeman, Oysterband, Edward II and more stepping up to the mic, plus children’s fun, theatre, cinema, and cream teas. Price: £100 adult w/e, day tickets, concs. Tel: 01329 231942, web: www.wickhamfestival.co.uk

LOCAL EVENT
BRISTOL HARBOUR FESTIVAL
Where: Bristol Harbourside
When: 31 July-2 Aug
What: Firmly established as one of the biggest and best free events in the South West and with a growing national profile, the Bristol Harbour Festival starts with a free Friday night concert in the Amphitheatre and continues through the weekend with loads of free entertainment, including music on five stages, dance performance, circus and street theatre, markets and a Saturday night fireworks display, all set against the backdrop of Bristol’s beautiful historic harbour, full with ships and boats of all sizes. Check Venue nearer the date for more details. Price: free. Web www.bristolharbourfestival.co.uk

GUILDTOWN BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL
Where: Guildtown, Perthshire, Scotland
When: 31 July-2 Aug
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 US acts The Midnight Ramblers and The Georgia Flatpickers plus more tbc. Price: £35 adult w/e incl camping. Tel: 01968 670 038, web: www.scottishbluegrass.com

NOZSTOCK
Where: Bromyard, Herefordshire
When: 31 July-2 Aug
What: Scratch Perverts and MC Dynamite join about 100 other performers on the bill of this bucolically cosy (400-capacity), mildly crusty get-together overlooking a lake. As well as three music stages, there’s also three dance tents providing hip-hop, drum & bass and trance through to the early hours. Don’t miss the vintage tractor arena! New for 2009: comedy and cabaret tent. For stewarding/ bar staff jobs (and accompanying free ticket), email work@nozstock.com Price: tbc. Web: www.nozstock.com

STANDON CALLING
Where: Standon, Hertfordshire
When: 31 July-2 Aug
What: Winner of the Innovation Award at last year’s UK Festival Awards, this bijou summer party has a ‘Space’ theme and will subsequently feature NASA space camps, tethered hot-air balloons, a fancy dress competition and Galileo’s Space Observatory. Also secret areas, music (last year they had Super Furry Animals and Dan Le Sac Vs Scroobius Pip), spoken-word performances, art installations, interactive theatre, swimming pool – with underwater dance area – boutique camping and a children’s area. Further details tbc. Price: £89 adult w/e. Web: www.standon-calling.com

Y-NOT FESTIVAL
Where: Pikehall, Matlock, Derbyshire
When: 31 July-2 Aug
What: Shortlisted for Best Festival Toilets at last year’s UK Festival Awards, this good value, non-corporate event in the Peak District started off very DIY-stylee in a quarry just a few years ago and is now the proud host of two stages and a dance tent. Acts like Young Knives, Nine Black Alps and Boxer Rebellion join an eclectic, underground bill. Price: £42. Web: www.ynotfestivals.com

SIDMOUTH FOLK WEEK
Where: Various venues, Sidmouth, Devon
When: 31 July-7 Aug
What: Folk festival and seaside holiday rolled into one. Music (Lau, Waterson Carthy, Oysterband, Jim Moray, John Kirkpatrick, Tom McConville and stacks else), singing, dancing, pub sessions, workshops, cream teas, crab sarnies, storytelling, lying on the beach, and more. New for 2009: As a result of changes in the interpretation of licensing regulations, children are now allowed at late-night events at the Bulverton Marquee. Price: £160 adult season ticket, some free, camping. Tel: 01395 578627, web: www.sidmouthfolkweek.co.uk

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