Inside the UK festival that transports Texas to a VERY unexpected corner of England – and there are still tickets left
A HOST of legendary music acts are descending on the beautiful Kent countryside this weekend as prim and proper Tunbridge Wells turns into a turbo-charged version of Texas for the Black Deer Festival – and there are still a few tickets available.
There will be more cowboy boots than wellies at this “Festival of Americana” as The Pretenders, Bonnie Rait and actor-turned-singer Damian Lewis come to England’s ‘deep south’ – well, Eridge Park in Kent.
This fast-growing festival punches well above its weight due not only to the incredible music lineup but also in the way it completely immerses festival-goers in the cultural heritage of America and a bygone rural era.
Authentic BBQ cooking is very much on the menu, with live displays and a mouthwatering choice of the finest southern-style street food traders the UK has to offer.
It’s also a mecca for motorbike fans – especially keen followers of Harley Davidson.
Celebrating its 120th birthday at the festival, the makers of the ultimate US chopper is giving revellers the chance to ride a high-speed simulator.
Add to that custom bike builders, vintage vehicles and exclusive merchandise it’s fair to say that ‘The Roadhouse’ zone will be keenly sought out by all good bikers.
And Black Deer is where the kids have as much fun as the adults. This year there’s a vintage Ferris wheel, a Helter Skelter and of course the bucking bronco, along with more traditional experiences like tree climbing and arts and crafts.
So, if you’re a fan of bluegrass, folk, blues, and country; if you yearn for the great-outdoors and crave the smoky tastes of the best barbecue cooking.
And if you’re after authentic good-times, with a family friendly vibe – then Black Deer is very much a festival for you.