In recent years, Houghton festival has been one of the most in demand events in the summer calendar. This year’s edition is no different with tickets immediately selling out. Set to take place in the idyllic grounds of Houghton Hall in Norfolk across 6th-10th August, the hype is really building. Founded and curated by legendary Fabric resident DJ Craig Richards, the event brings in some of the worlds most respected DJ’s, each with the approval of the head honcho himself. Embracing longer slots for artists – with many playing sets of three hours – Houghton is designed to get the best out of those playing, making the dancefloor a truly special place
Such is the nature of Houghton, a core family of artists return each year who understand and promote the festival’s philosophy. It’s a sentiment that’s reciprocated by many revellers who never miss an edition knowing there’s no other place quite like it. Up until this year, Houghton was known for being the only event on the festival calendar with a 24 hour license. It makes for a truly unique experience, where the possibilities to get lost are endless. Set across 14 uniquely designed stages, each with sound curated by d&b audiotechnik, the event shows an unrivalled attention to detail.
Noctis has been to the last four editions of Houghton, and we’ve got some top tips for making the most of the special weekend.
It’s a marathon, not a sprint
First of all, no matter what the person next to you says at 6am on the dancefloor, sleep is vital. The programme is relentless and to make the most of it, you need all the energy you can muster. Whether it be a few hours in a hammock, or in an uncomfortable sweaty tent, get all the hours you can. Sometimes you have to be tactical, knowing your favourite artist starts at 7am, getting a couple of hours extra during the day can make all the difference. Also recommended is electrolyte tablets for a little burst of energy and a gracious helping hand with the hangover.
Take time away from the music
Houghton may well bring the best of electronic music to Norfolk, but it also excels at so much more. Art and design as well as wellness play vital roles in the identity of the festival. The beautiful setting in and around the forest allows you to take the event at your speed. Last year installations within trees and strobe light by … encouraged people to slow down and absorb their surroundings. So why not take in the Orchard , with its programme of yoga, gong baths, as well as a sauna close by. Each day a Sculpture tour at Houghton Hall is offered for free – two years ago we saw Antony Gormley work on show and this year Lynn Chadwick is the focussed artist. The Armadillo hosts panel talks featuring Craig Richards, Jane Fitz and Shanti Celeste.
Make sure you experience Terminus
The ever infamous Terminus stage is one not to miss each year at Houghton. Running 24 hours each day with a totally unannounced lineup, it’s a great place to be surprised. It’s now a lot easier to find than when we first went to the festival, but expect to queue, sometimes for a couple of hours. Perhaps there’s a slot on the lineup where
Remember to bring a face covering
An unavoidable Houghton guarantee each year is a dusty forest. We’ve made the mistake in years past of forgetting a face covering and the aftermath is brutal. Nobody wants to be sick after an amazing festival weekend, but inhaling that dust does some damage. Whether it’s a repurposed scarf or a mask, be sure to wear a covering when it’s at its driest.
Make the most of it!
Finally, and above all, make sure you make the most of it. A weekend like Houghton is only on offer once a year so make sure it’s memorable. Wear your most eccentric outfits, make new friends, explore new activities and discover new artists. Enjoy the lack of phone signal and welcome the escape from everyday life!
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Words: Jake Wright
Photography: Khali Ackford, Jake Davis