Lumley Castle to host historic first music festival in September

Lumley Castle in Chester-le-Street will host 'Opulence' on September 4 and 5, promising two nights of live entertainment in a unique setting.

The full artist line-up has yet to be announced, but organisers have promised a star-studded weekend.

Daz Flatman, operations manager at ATA Events, said: "We didn’t want to do something that was just another show in a field, we wanted a spectacular location where we could stage something unique."

Friday will feature '80s and '90s superstars, while Saturday will be dedicated to house music.

It would be the first music festival in the castle's 600-year history. (Image: LUMLEY CASTLE)

ATA Events is a company more than 20 years old and has helped to develop major shows across the UK, previously working with acts like Sister Sledge, Razorlight, Armand Van Helden, Ella Henderson, and Scouting for Girls.

Mr Flatman said it "took a lot of persuading. The combination of our experience and the vision of what we wanted to do convinced them that would be really special".

Lumley Castle staff say they are eagerly preparing for the festival.

Jeff Hodgson, general manager at the castle, said: "My team and I are looking forward to seeing everyone come together to enjoy this amazing festival at Lumley Castle.

"The preparations are underway and we can’t wait to welcome the local community, and visitors from further afield, too."

Lindsey Clarke, event manager at Lumley Castle, said: "I’m delighted to be working alongside ATA Events to help organise a music festival this autumn.

"It’s great to create an event that will bring the local community together."

Two stages will be set up in the castle grounds to host performances, with the Lawn stage hosting the Friday line-up, followed by the Saturday line-up alongside the additional Monument stage.