Redefining Country Festivals: The Roadhouse Weekender Story

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CountryMusic.co.uk is thrilled to bring you an exclusive interview with Ren Slavin, Head of Marketing at the Roadhouse Group, about the much-anticipated Roadhouse Weekender Country Music Festival. Scheduled to take place from July 4th to 6th, 2025 at the picturesque Park Farm Camping in Bodiam, East Sussex, this brand new three-day festival promises to be a game-changer for UK country music fans, blending authentic country vibes with an immersive and inclusive experience. Join us as Ren shares the inspiration behind the festival, its unique features, and what attendees can look forward to at this spectacular event. Get ready to dive into the heart of the Roadhouse Weekender and discover what makes it a must-attend for country music enthusiasts!

A Festival Born from Passion

At the heart of the Roadhouse Weekender Country Music Festival is an unwavering dedication to the essence of country music and its passionate fans. The festival, lovingly envisioned by Jak, the founder, is a testament to what true country music aficionados yearn for in a festival experience. Ren Slavin, Head of Marketing at the Roadhouse Group, emphasises this sentiment, stating, “Our founder Jak had wanted to create something that really encapsulates what Country Fans want from a festival, from amazing authentic artists from both the UK and beyond, to a luxury camping experience for all.”

The Unique Origins of Roadhouse Weekender

ren slavin
Ren Slavin – Head of Marketing

The origins of this festival are as unique as its concept. Ren recalls meeting Jak at the Cat Cafe she runs with her partner, where their shared love for country music sparked the creation of the Roadhouse brand. Ren elaborates, “We poured our souls into creating Roadhouse,” highlighting the personal investment and passion driving the festival.

What Sets the Roadhouse Weekender Apart

What sets the Roadhouse Weekender apart from other country music festivals is its community-led approach. “As a community-led group, a lot of our artist choices have come from what UK country fans have requested,” Ren notes. This festival aims to create a legacy that feels like home to UK country fans, ensuring that every detail is designed with the attendees in mind. From luxury attended showers and toilets to a buggy service for setting up camp, the festival promises an unforgettable experience. Ren adds, “This just scratches the surface of what we’re doing to set us apart… We’re also looking to raise money and awareness for our partner charity, People’s Animal Welfare Society.”

roadhouse weekender headliners
Headliners Drake White and Sophia Scott

A Special Invitation to Country Music Fans

For country music fans, the Roadhouse Weekender promises an opportunity to be part of something truly special and inclusive. “Our founder Jak said that she wants to give the Country Music scene in the UK more of an independent platform,” Ren shares. The festival aims to challenge and break the mold of what’s expected as a standard in the UK, offering a minimal-stress, fully immersive, and authentic experience that supports an amazing cause.

An Impressive Lineup for Country Fans

roadhouse weekender wave 3 announcement
Third Wave announcement of artists – more to come!

The festival boasts an impressive lineup, featuring the biggest UK and USA Country Music artists, including Sophia Scott, Drake White, Blake Henderson, First Time Flyers, and Kezia Gill. Ren is particularly excited about the diversity of the lineup, which also includes elements of Americana. “We also still have another Wave announcement to come, so watch this space!” she teases.

Top-Tier Camping Experience for All

glamping
Glamping is available

The Roadhouse Weekender is designed with fans in mind, ensuring a top-tier camping experience for everyone, whether VIP or not. Ren highlights, “We’ve tried to be as affordable as possible, so our activities throughout the festival are all completely free.” VIP attendees can enjoy intimate secret set performances, exclusive goodie bags, and VIP buggy access, making the festival experience even more special.

Embracing Local Culture and Community

Set in the beautiful rolling hills of Sussex, the festival incorporates local culture and community elements. Ren explains, “A local brewery will be creating an exclusive Roadhouse Weekender beer,” adding a unique touch to the festival. Sustainability is also a key focus, with initiatives like composting food waste and encouraging travel by train to minimize traffic impact.

Family-Friendly Fun and Safety

family friendly festival
Family-Friendly Fun and Safety

Families are not forgotten at the Roadhouse Weekender. The festival features a multitude of activities for kids, with their safety and welfare in mind. “From booking food vendors that appeal to all dietary requirements to our country-themed activities, everything has been carefully curated to welcome everyone regardless of age,” Ren says.

Exclusive Opportunities for Die-Hard Fans

For die-hard country fans, the VIP package offers opportunities to meet their favorite artists, participate in exclusive Q&A sessions, and enjoy special performances. Ren assures, “Our VIP package grants access to exclusive VIP-only areas, the opportunity to get involved in artist meet n’ greets, and more.”

Inclusivity is a priority for the festival, ensuring accessibility for all attendees. “When booking, attendees can enter their accessibility requirements, so that one of our team can get in touch to ensure that they have everything they need for an enjoyable weekend,” Ren explains.

Delicious Culinary Offerings

And no country music event would be complete without mouth-watering BBQ food. The festival will feature multiple BBQ demos and a welcome BBQ on Friday, with a variety of food vendors catering to all dietary requirements throughout the weekend.

A Festival by Fans, for Fans

The Roadhouse Weekender
The Roadhouse Weekender

With a diverse lineup of artists, top-tier amenities, family-friendly activities, and a focus on sustainability and local culture, the Roadhouse Weekender offers something for every country music fan.

As Ren Slavin aptly puts it, “It’s a festival by country music fans, for country music fans.” Whether you’re a die-hard enthusiast or new to the scene, the Roadhouse Weekender is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the heart of country music, create lasting memories, and be part of a vibrant and welcoming community. Don’t miss out on this unique and exciting event that promises to be a highlight of the country music calendar – book your tickets now!

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