Rhythms of the World Festival 2010 – Logistics report.
The festival was held at the Priory Park in Hitchin, a green space near the centre of the town. Note that this is a day festival (2 days) and you can buy a ticket for either day, or both. There is no camping.
Parking is an issue here, and the organisers encourage attendees to come by public transport. Hitchin railway station is a mile from the site. There is no on-site parking, and even drop-off outside could be a problem, because of the narrow streets. The official parking was at Butt’s Close, another large green space in the town some 10 mins walk away. For your future reference, the vehicle entrance to Butt’s Close is from Fishponds Road. You will exit on foot from the far end of the parking area. Of course, there are also pay car parks around the town centre.
Before you get in, there is a bag check for excess alcohol, etc.
Once inside, there are at least five stages to choose from. The “World Music” acts all appeared on the main stage, and were generally of a high standard. I saw a Touraeg band from North Africa – wish I could have got a CD of them. Supporting acts on the other stages were a variety of rock, pop, folk, or unclassifiable, and mainly of local, i.e. home counties, origin. Only one of the stages (the church-sponsored one) had seating or cover for spectators.
Considering the quality World Music and the ticket price of under £10 per day, superb value for money. Toilet and catering facilities were adequate.