Camp Bestival is fast approaching and StyleNest’s writer and Dad-Up blogger, Frazer McGlinchey is on hand to bring us all the info on the UK’s greatest family-friendly festival.
The wash-out of our British summer of discontent has had an impact upon festival season thus far. Appropriately, though, it seems that the gulf stream is in gear to get its act together for arguably the ultimate family festival, Camp Bestival, while such is the range of fun on offer that it’s positively weather-proofed.
As with its bigger brother on the Isle of Wight, Bestival, the festival is lovingly curated by Josie and Rob da Bank. Distinct is the extent to which the wonder of Camp Bestival is programmed and planned meticulously to provide genuine family fun. Every effort is made to ensure that there will be antics and acts aplenty to captivate and amaze our offspring, with more than enough to ensure that still would-be hipster parents don’t feel alienated and despairing throughout the weekend.
For kids that means the likes of Mr Tumble, the cast of Shrek the Musical, Dick & Dom, The Fantastic Mr Fox Orchestra, The Gruffalo Live and the English National Ballet to engage and inspire all ages from tiny to teenager.
For us the likes of The Happy Mondays, Hot Chip, Chic featuring Nile Rodgers and Little Dragon will dispel any notion that the fun is just for the yoots.
Elsewhere, Stylenest faves The Cuban Brothers, Rolf Harris, Adam Ant and many more will provide inspiration and joy unbridled for the young, and young-at-heart alike. As if that weren’t enough comedy from the likes of Jimmy Carr, Andrew Maxwell and a raft of comedians, talks, and readings (including the intriguing concept of Howard Marks telling children’s stories) add to the remarkable amount of entertainment over the course of a unique event for all, with the friendly, thoughtful atmosphere which has seen Camp Bestival repeatedly crowned Best Family Festival.
Top that off with fancy dress, Silly Olympics, Boutique Camping, and a Fireworks Finale to leave all the family exhausted but awed at the end of a weekend you’ll cherish for many a year to come.
Camp Bestival @ Lulworth Castle, Dorset. 26/27/28/29 July 2012.
Limited Day Tickets are available from Lulworth Heritage Centre (01929 400587) and Ticketline (0844 888 4410).
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