Upmarket festivals in the UK are a rare occurrence. Luxury usually consists of a plug socket and a teepee, but once you start to explore beyond the VIP camping the rest of the festival doesn’t really represent comfort and prestige, but the Henley Festival is one of the exceptions. Held annually in picturesque Henley-on-Thames, it combines a black-tie dress code with incredible art, music and cuisine, all from the riverbanks and setting of The River Thames.
Forget Glastonbury and Wilderness Festival, the Henley Festival is the unrivalled luxury festival and here is what you have to look forward to in July.
Black-tie glamour
The Henley Festival is the UK’s exclusive black-tie music and arts extravaganza. This sophisticated dress code sets the scene for a truly unique celebration, where festivalgoers don their most stunning evening gowns and dapper tuxedos. The sight of thousands of chic attendees creates an unforgettable atmosphere against an even more elegant backdrop.
A feast for the senses
The Moët Champagne sponsored festival holds culinary excellence as highly as the music and art. Featuring a range of dining options, from gourmet street food to fine dining experiences, including The Riverside Kitchen’s five-course tasting menu from Dish Catering, the emphasis on high-quality food and drink adds a layer of luxury to the festival, making it a feast for all the senses.
World-class performances
The Henley Festival boasts an impressive line-up of musical and artistic performances that cater to a wide range of tastes. Each year, the festival features renowned artists from various genres, including classical, jazz, opera, and contemporary music. Past performers have included legends like Elton John and Shirley Bassey, as well as contemporary stars such as Jessie J and Craig David. The festival’s iconic floating stage on the Thames provides a stunning backdrop for these performances, with 2024’s line up including performances from Trevor Nelson and Ministry and Sound Ibiza anthems with Ellie Sax.
Exquisite bars
The festival takes its commitment to luxury and sophistication to the next level with its array of exquisite bars and beverage options. Scattered throughout the festival grounds there’s almost too much choice from the Moët Champagne Bar to expertly crafted vodka and gin cocktails such as those provided by Ramsbury Spirits at their Farmhouse Event Bar. Each is thoughtfully designed to provide a stylish and comfortable environment where guests can relax and mingle, while soaking in the beautiful scenery.
Immersive art and culture
The festival grounds are adorned with contemporary art installations, sculpture gardens, and vibrant street theatre performances. These artistic displays are carefully curated to inspire and captivate attendees, offering a rich cultural experience that goes beyond the auditory. Whether you are an art aficionado or simply appreciate beauty and creativity, the festival provides numerous opportunities to immerse yourself in a world of artistic excellence.
Stunning riverside location
One of the most enchanting aspects of the Henley Festival is its location along the Thames. The picturesque riverside setting adds to the festival’s charm, providing stunning views and a sense of luxury that complements the festivities. Guests can enjoy performances on the floating stage, dine with a view of the river, and stroll along the beautifully lit walkways, making the setting itself a significant part of the experience. The combination of natural beauty and festival luxury creates a magical atmosphere that is hard to find elsewhere.
Philanthropy and social impact
Attending the Henley Festival also means contributing to a good cause. The festival has a strong tradition of supporting various charitable organisations, with proceeds benefiting local and national charities. This philanthropic aspect adds a sense of purpose to the festivities, aligning the enjoyment and luxury of the event with broader social good. 2024 marks the third year of RISE by Henley Festival and its objective hasn’t changed – to support talented, performers, artists and creative professionals who want to pursue a career in the arts industries, on and off stage.
For those seeking a luxurious and memorable festival experience, and a feel good factor, the Henley Festival is an unmissable highlight of the year.
This year the festival runs from 10th-14th July.
