Festivals with a difference

For those of us who are a little beyond our Reading or Glastonbury days, we suggest combining your week-end escape or family holiday this year with one of the many cultural events taking place across the Cotswolds arts scene. The stunning backdrop of Blenheim Palace hosts one of the countrys premier picnic concerts in July with the annual Battle Proms, expected to be particularly stirring this year as we commemorate the 50^th anniversary of Churchills death. Just down the road from Woodstock on the Great Tew estate, is The Cornbury Music Festival, very much an affair for the whole family to enjoy designed for stressed out mum and dads to chill and an ideal introduction to the music festival phenomenon for younger members of the family. Just a cock stride away at the end of August, Alex James farm hosts another Big Feastival music & food, talk about dream team! Now in its fifth year, its no surprise to us that this is a winning combination and with several cosy cottages nearby, were ideally placed for anyone wishing to attend. Check out Little Garth, Grooms Cottage, The Old Smithy and Dairy Cottage. Kicking it all off at the end of April is The Cheltenham Jazz festival. According to Jamie Cullum its one of the best jazz festivals in the world and you can enjoy it in comfort whilst staying at The Granary or Elgin Cottage. Time for some serious chilling, enjoy!