Festival getaways Liverpool Sound City’s 28-30 April return signalled the start of 2023’s festival season. If you’re looking to combine a brimming bill of music, comedy, food and activities with a weekend getaway, you don’t have to venture far from Liverpool to find a field of fun no matter what you’re into. We’ve hand-picked four of the summer’s best festivals within easy reach of the city
BLUEDOT JODRELL BANK OBSERVATORY, CHESHIRE WHEN IS IT? 20-23 July WHAT’S HAPPENING? A small, family-friendly festival which more holds its own musically. Róisín Murphy, Pavement, Grace Jones, Young Fathers and Leftfield top the bill at this year’s edition. There’s much more to bluedot than the bands though, as the event promises a weekend of discovery against the backdrop of Jodrell Bank’s famous Lovell Telescope.
Science workshops, out of this world activities and prominent speakers including the Sky at Night’s Chris Lintott are also added to the mix, alongside other cultural features to be explored. Plus Nish Kumar, Adam Buxton and Matt Winning are just a few of the stellar acts announced for the comedy line-up. HOW TO GET THERE You won’t have to travel for lightyears as Jodrell Bank is a mere 50-minute drive from Liverpool city centre. Return National Express services from Liverpool can also be booked in advance, and
train users are advised to head to Macclesfield station to catch a coach to the site. ACCOMMODATION Take your tent or book in a live-in vehicle, but if star treatment is more your thing there are boutique camping and pre-pitched tent options too. Upgrade to the VIP Village for a more relaxed experience with access to exclusive food and drink concessions and a lounge area. PRICE Adult weekend camping tickets from £209 + booking fee, with day tickets starting at £39 + booking fee for the Thursday.
