Bournemouth Sevens Festival

previous winners

Forget all the 'big' festivals in Britain, there's just something so humbling about your local mash up of music and sport which unites festival lovers from all over the country, to your little town. Whether it's the friendly yet competitive nature of the rugby tournament, or the array of music and entertainment, Bournemouth Sevens gives its visitors a party to remember at this Dorset weekend venue. 

The festival welcomes rugby teams from across the globe, including players from Fiji and New Zealand, and the countries best premiership players, to play in 16 different competitions. So if you love your rugby this is definitely a treat not to be missed, and if you love your rugby players, well ...

As well as rugby, Sevens plays host to the largest netball competition in Europe, with 144 teams taking part in this Champagne Cup. Whether you want to join in, or you'd prefer to watch, the weekend promises to fulfil your sporting needs. 

And a festival wouldn't be a good festival without a spot of music, and sevens attracts around 20,000 attendees who can be entertained by live bands and party DJ's throughout the day. The Nintendo Festival stage plays host to a number of bands, and in the Carling beer tent you can find live music, chart music, classics and dubstep later on in the evening when things start to turn a bit wild (think drunk rugby men celebrating the days events). 

photo lounge fun

Don't let the party atmosphere put you off if that's not your thing, this weekend is also great for the kids (and big kids alike). The Wii Fit marquee has many Wii games to be enjoyed and there are fair rides for all thrill seekers. As well as that face painting is on offer and a stunt parachute team keep the crowds wowed with a spectacle of tricks. And from burgers to organic grub, there is a wide selection of food outlets in the 'catering village.'

If you want to stay the night, bring a tent as there is a camp site, but if you're lucky enough to live near by like me you can go home to your own bed and come back the next day on a free shuttle bus from Bournemouth coach station. And, if you've got the money to splash you can buy a VIP ticket which gives you access to the celebrity lounge with a private bar and DJ, luxury atmosphere, and Pimms on arrival. Ooh la la.

If you're anything like me you'll be quite content with a student ticket for £20, which gives you access to the whole site. I spent the weekend watching and learning about rugby, drooling over the players, running around a field wishing I could play netball and drinking the day away whilst playing games and dancing with friends and randoms! 

The official website describes Bournemouth Sevens as a 'sporting Glastonbury'. Well, if it's good enough for the likes of Austin Healey, it's good enough for me. 

Lois x