In The Woods 2012

Unless you’ve been before, I can all but guarantee you’ve never been to a music festival like this. In the Woods - now in its sixth year - sees a bevy of hot up-and-coming indie acts take to the stage amidst the glorious foliage of some private woodland in Kent, about an hour’s train ride from London.

Meandering through the trees and into the secret space, it quickly becomes clear this is no ordinary festival experience. Art installations are everywhere. The Mad Hatter’s tea party is in full effect. Every other person is chomping on delicious homemade food and washing it down with locally brewed ale.



As sunset approaches, low-power light bulbs bathe the tree-lined pathways in a flickering glow and the whole place is given an almost magical aura.



Of course, what we’re really here for is the music. Headlining this year are Alt-J and Liverpool psychedelic pop trio Stealing Sheep, who turn in a wonderfully loose set and sound sort of like a girlier Twin Sister.



Further down the bill, honourable mentions go to one-woman sonic whirlwind Tanya Auclair and experimental three-piece Beaty Heart. Oh and of course Man Like Me, who were absolutely hilarious secret guests.



With only 1,000 or so places up for grabs and demand getting higher by the year, nabbing tickets is tricky. That said, do your damnedest to get some next time because In The Woods is simply the most beautiful music festival you’ll ever visit.