What’s it about? The Isle of Wight has become synonymous with big messy rock fests over the past few years but only down the road is one of the finest alternatives that the summer’s festival calendar can offer. The IOW International Jazz Festival caters for both well-versed jazz aficionados and interested newcomers, and offers some of the biggest names in new jazz in the rolling downlands of Ventnor.

The UK’s ‘deep south’ has been hosting the festival since 2002 and there’s been a steady push in numbers each year with the latest progressive and trad acts from Europe and across the Atlantic making a big impression. There is a lively tented Jazz Village right on the high cliffs of Ventnor, and this acts as the hub of the festival, with a custom built jazz bar, Deep South Diner and continual acts playing throughout the weekend. There’s also the world famous Messin’ Around club night on the Saturday and a Swing Era Big Band Concert on Sunday.

This year’s festival sees the event extended to three days for the first time and you can tailor you’re ticket to whatever you want to see. Some names to check out this year include headliner Macaeo Parker and his band (featuring amongst others Dennis Rollins), The Jazzcotech Dancers, Pete Long of Ronnie Scott’s Band, Aydenne Simone and the Jazz Culture Band.

Fancy a budget festival that’s different and got an edge? Check it out…

Book now if you love: skipping all the crowds and high prices. Love of jazz isn’t a must, but it helps...

Don’t miss: Messin’ Around on Saturday night, it’s actually a loud jazz party that works

Want to go? All kinds of slightly complicated options of how much you can pay. Check out www.jazzdivas.freeuk.com for details

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