Photo: Richard Gray
Next weekend plays host to the third instalment of Beacons festival in Skipton, North Yorkshire. Although it is one of the youngest on Britain’s summer music calendar, it is fast gaining a reputation for being the best small festival around for those who want an experience that offers something a little different to the commercial big-hitters.
This year, the lin-eup is as eclectic as ever, spanning rock, pop, hip-hop, electronica, folk, comedy, arts and literature. Although the headliners might not jump off the page as those from much larger events - but what you have here is a truly quality, more charming and esoteric line-up. There really is something to satisfy every palate.
Highlights include Mercury Prize nominees and one of 2013’s biggest success stories, Daughter, who will headline on Friday 8 August. Other notable performances come from the likes of British Sea Power, who will be playing their soundtrack to the feature film ‘From the Sea to the land Beyond’, Action Bronson, TOY, Joan As Policewoman and East India Youth.
Saturday 9 August throws up a more beat-heavy bill, with the main stage being closed by trip-hopper Nightmares On Wax and the truly innovative headliner, Jon Hopkins. Looking a little further down bill reveals a host of acts ranging from psych-rock sensations like Hookworms and Traams, right down to those who have already crashed the mainstream such as Charli XCX and Glass Animals.
The closing day on Sunday 10 August is when the bona fide legends really come out to play. There’s the infectious R&B of Neneh Cherry with the backing of RocketNumberNine, and the snarling post-punk of Mark E Smith and The Fall - who can boast to not only to have been at the top of their game for four decades, but also that they were legendary DJ John Peel’s all time favourite band. To top it all off, DARKSIDE (aka Nicolas Jaar and Dave Harrington) will bring the main stage to a close - trust us when we say that this is going to be a performance to be remembered for all time.
It’s not all about the music though. Skipton’s Heslaker Farm is found nestled right in the centre of the Yorkshire Dales, making it one of the most picturesque festival locations in the country. Ticket holders will be treated to a full programme of gourmet street food and organisers will also be keeping things local, with a selection of real ales to impress even the most discerning of tastes. There’s also a family camping field with all the entertainment the kids could ever need.
And the best bit? This unique weekend of otherworldly and mind blowing goings on could be all yours to enjoy for a wallet-friendly price. So what are you waiting for? Let’s head for the Dales!
See the full Beacons line-up below. For more information visit the Beacons website here or visit Gigwise Tickets.
Below: 13 bands you need to see at this weekend's Beacons Festival
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