London Mums Magazine‘s reporters had the pleasure of attending the Uptown Festival at Blackheath Common, which was an extraordinary experience. The festival, known for showcasing some of London’s legendary acts, did not disappoint. From the moment we arrived, it was clear that this was going to be a day to remember as it took me back to my teens. With acts like Madness, DJ Luck, MC Neat, Aswad, Lightning Seeds and many more……..
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Uptown Festival at Blackheath Common
The setup was impeccable, with a main open stage for headlining acts and two additional large tents, reminiscent of a circus, which provided spacious and comfortable areas for other live performances and DJs. The entire area was thoughtfully laid out, ensuring there was something for everyone in the family.
We had the surreal experience of meeting Tony Gad from Aswad, and what an amazing guy he is. We had the opportunity to interview him ourselves, face-to-face with this iconic musician. Despite his legendary status, Tony was incredibly approachable and gracious, taking the time to chat with fans and share anecdotes from his career. His passion for music was evident in every word and his warm demeanour made the encounter feel genuinely special. This added an extra layer of magic to an already extraordinary day, making the festival experience even more memorable.
The festival catered to all age groups brilliantly. There were thrilling rides for all ages, from adrenaline-pumping attractions for teens to gentle, enjoyable rides for the younger children. An area dedicated to toddlers featured sing-alongs with friendly mascots, keeping the little ones entertained and engaged.
The musical lineup was stellar. We enjoyed performances from Omar, Madness, and Aswad, each bringing their unique sound and energy to the stage. The highlight for us was undoubtedly DJ Luck and MC Neat, who electrified the crowd with an array of Jungle Classics, creating an unforgettable atmosphere of nostalgia and excitement.
Food lovers were in for a treat with a wide variety of food stalls offering delicious options to suit every palate. From gourmet burgers to exotic street food, there was no shortage of culinary delights to enjoy while soaking in the festive atmosphere.
We had the goat curry and it was a culinary highlight. Richly aromatic and deeply flavourful, the tender goat meat, slow-cooked to perfection, absorbed a medley of spices that danced on the palate. Paired with fluffy rice, it provided a hearty and satisfying meal that perfectly complemented the vibrant festival atmosphere. Though on the pricey side at £20, the large portion was ample enough for two to share.
The Uptown Festival at Blackheath Common was a fantastic day out, offering an excellent blend of music, entertainment, and family-friendly activities. The atmosphere was vibrant and welcoming, making it a perfect event for all ages. Whether you were there for the music, the rides, or simply to enjoy a day out with family and friends, the festival delivered on all fronts.
For anyone considering attending next year, I highly recommend it. It’s a brilliant way to experience some of London’s best musical talent while enjoying a fun-filled day with loved ones. Uptown Festival has certainly earned its place as a highlight of the summer festival calendar.
London Mums Magazine gave it a big 10/10.
