HOORAY HENLEY

The Henley Festival is easily the Chilterns’ most famous, having morphed from a small yet special occasion into a major black-tie event. It encompasses a vibrant programme from pop to world music, classical to jazz, and is where art and gastronomy share equal billing with the music.

“The key elements which make it so special are still the same: the stunning river location, the dining, classical music,” says Stewart Collins, Henley’s Artistic Director for the past 29 years and on whose shoulders rests the responsibility of booking all the entertainment.

“Henley is so diverse in its audience, attracting people of all ages, and some have been coming every year since the very first festival, so it has an incredibly loyal following.”

Alongside the headline acts such as James Blunt and Sophie Ellis-Bextor, next year will see The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Stephen Bell take to the stage as well as Stewart’s top pick, folk and blues guitarist Martin Harley.

Due to the coronavirus crisis, this year’s festival is delayed until

7-11 July 2021. henley-festival.co.uk