Our first visit to Beat Herder was very much a last minute decision and to be honest if the thunder storms we experienced while we were there had been predicted we probably wouldn’t have bothered. But despite the fact that we only actually spent a little over 24 hours on the site it gave us enough of a flavour to pencil this event in for future years. The setting in the Ribble Valley is certainly spectacular with the imposing shape of Pendle Hill making an impressive backdrop.

As the name might suggest Beat Herder is predominantly a dance music festival although there is certainly enough in the way of music from other genres to keep the non-dance orientated punter happy. The main stage is of the Saddlespan variety and there are also smaller stages in the Stumblefunk Big Top and the Trailer Trash & Working Men’s Club Tents. Additionally DJ’s played in the dub/reggae orientated Bushrocker Hi Fi Tent and the more psy-trance geared “Toiltrees” which was to be found along a secluded woodland path. Everywhere there were quirky and amusing little touches, including the free and handily pocket sized programme.

There was plenty of variety in the food options available for both vegetarians & carnivores alike. You can take your own alcohol into the arena but there were additionally 2 very acceptable festival ales priced at a reasonable £2:50 and available at an assortment of bars around the site. Additional stalls had an unusual selection of clothing, jewellery & art. Toilets were plentiful & clean and litter was minimal.

Beat Herder is only a relatively small event with probably no more than 3,000 people in attendance but plenty of them entered into the spirit of dressing up on the Saturday night and despite the rather squelchy conditions underfoot the vibe was happy & friendly.