Located in the stunning setting of Whitebottom Farm is Etherow Country Park, with 3 stages – the main stage situated in the barn (with hay bales for seats), the Meadow stage and the paddock stage which is hosted by Mr Peeps and showcases some of the best emerging bands – Blackthorn Music Festival markets itself as Manchester’s first credible music festival with camping.

As well as top music, there are also a variety of other arts showcased at Blackthorn. Northern Soul photographer, Nicola Jaye, spent time snapping brilliant images at the festival which included dedicated areas for, live art, acoustic acts and spontaneous live art installations appear throughout the festival, so if you go for a wander away from the main stage you never know what you might come across.

The site included some great independent food and drink stalls and the festival had a friendly vibe about it with many families attending (including their dogs). It’s a real hidden gem of a music festival.

(Main image: The Blinders by Nicola Jaye)