Music festivals are a great way to have fun, listen to great music, and socialise with friends and family. The South West is home to a plethora of music festivals, each offering something unique and special. Two of the most popular music festivals in the South West are Boardmasters in Cornwall and Beautiful Days in Devon. 

Both Boardmasters and Beautiful Days offer a great variety of music, food, and activities, but they have some distinct differences. Boardmasters is a massive event that attracts circa 50k attendees that takes place over five days and nights and is located on the top of a cliff overlooking a beach located just outside the nearby town of Newquay. It features live performances from world-renowned musicians and DJs, as well as a variety of food outlets and market stalls offering everything from clothing, hair braiding and silly hats. The main attraction is the huge stage positioned in the heart of the grounds which plays host to some of the best acts in the world. Boardmasters has become renowned for school leavers and students who have just completed their A-Level qualifications and it is something of a ‘rite of passage’ to attend with all your friends and enjoy a few days in the sunshine.

Beautiful Days is a much more family-friendly music festival located on the outskirts of Exeter in Devon. It offers a welcoming atmosphere, with plenty of activities to keep everyone amused. The music centres around the folk and indie genres but there is so much more on offer with plenty of local bands performing. There is also a huge selection of food to choose from, as well as activities such as face painting, art workshops, and circus skills. Being more family friendly, there is a huge area devoted to children’s activities, this is a great chance for families to keep their young ones entertained whilst Mum & Dad head off to enjoy the music and theatre events, knowing that their kids are safe and being well looked after.

In conclusion, both festivals have something special to offer and are definitely worth checking out. They both provide a unique experience, with a great range of music, food, and activities. Whether you’re looking for a beachside extravaganza or a family-oriented affair, there is something for everyone at Boardmasters and Beautiful Days.