The sun’s out (please, no torrential rain) and that means the world’s best bands and DJs will be landing in the UK to make the soundtrack to your summer.
But if traipsing through the mud, dodging guide ropes and queuing for a toilet reminiscent of that scene from Trainspotting doesn’t sound like your idea of fun, Manchester Parklife Festival is what you’re looking for.
Because there’s no camping, you can come for the music and leave for some much needed shuteye. Or carry on in the bars and clubs of town. So why not take a look at our guide and book your Manchester Travelodge today?
1. The venue
Taking place in Heaton Park over the weekend of 6-7 June, the setting for Manchester Parklife is one of Europe’s largest municipal parks: 600 acres of green space just north of the city centre.
Easy to get to, Heaton Park is just eight stops from Manchester Piccadilly and four stops from Manchester Victoria station on the Metrolink.
Heaton Park’s relationship with music stretches back to the early 1900s, when locals gathered for open-air gramophone concerts.
It’s a little different these days, but following in the footsteps of the likes of Happy Mondays and De La Soul, this year’s acts are sure to live up to expectations. Who are they? Read on.
2. The line-up
This year’s line-up is all about keeping everyone dancing through the night.
Headliners Disclosure and Rudimental will be bringing their unique brand of party tunes to Manchester while old favourites like Fatboy Slim and Caribou are sure to get your evening started off right.
For hip hop fans, the legendary Wu Tang Clan will take us back to the genre’s heyday as will Nas, who is performing his ground-breaking album Illmatic in full.
For contemporary dance acts look no further than golden boy of the genre Jamie XX. Or if funk’s more your thing, Kaytranada’s got your back.
This is just scratching the surface of the full line-up, so be sure to check it out and see which of your favourites are playing.
3. The afters
Heaton Park’s in a residential area, so the music stops at 11pm. Of course, details of the official after parties are on the Parklife website.
But if you want to do your own thing, we suggest you head to Salford to find speakeasy-style Under New Management (@unm_salford) on Barlow’s Croft. If you want somewhere more central, then Dogs n Dough (@dogsndough)off Cross Street on Bow Lane is a good bet for keeping the weekend going (and lining your stomach with US classics).
So, what are you waiting for? No need for a tent, leave your sleeping bag at home and enjoy the luxury of enjoying a good night’s sleep AND seeing some of the world’s greatest music acts! What more could you want?
Book your room in a Manchester Travelodge, put your dance tunes on and start rifling through those festival clothes.
