Summer festivals

For many people the word ‘festival’; conjures up images of loud music, dirty toilets and thousands of mud-soaked teenagers. But it doesn’t have to be like that - there are a number of festivals that are organised with a more discerning audience in mind. Here’s our pick of this summer’s festivals for those of us who prefer to avoid waist-deep mud and a leaky tent.

Wychwood Festival, 8-10 June

Taking place on Cheltenham Racecourse, the Wychwood Festival is now in its eighth year. With a focus on creating an intimate but diverse festival experience, Wychwood has been described as a 'bijou Glastonbury'. With plenty of space for camping and a huge variety of music, Wychwood would make a great first festival experience.

Green Man, 17-19 August

One of the few festivals to avoid any big corporate affiliation, Green Man is a rare thing - an independent festival with an ethical approach. This also impacts the general vibe of the festival, which features big name acts, such as Van Morrison this year, alongside film, literature and comedy events. Green Man is a bit like how festivals used to be, before they became too popular!

Henley Festival, 4-8 July

Quite possibly the exact opposite of a typical festival experience, Henley resembles the free-living, mud and cider ethos of festivals like Glastonbury only in name. Instead of wellies you should be looking to dig out your finest shoes; waterproofs can be replaced with your black tie finest. There are some 'festival' features though - music, art, comedy, theatre and even fireworks. As far as UK summer festivals go, it's certainly unique.

Whitehaven Festival, 1-3 June

A summer festival doesn't have to be about music, of course, and the Whitehaven Festival is a great example of bringing together a whole host of experiences. From cooking demonstrations to fairground rides, tall ships, markets and aerial displays, this year's festival is being held in celebration of the Queen's Diamond Jubilee.

Date: 26/04/2012