The Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival is an annual music and arts festival held on the Belladrum Estate in Kiltarlity, a village near Inverness in the Scottish Highlands. The festival, affectionately known as ‘Bella’ by regulars, is a highlight of the Scottish summer festival season, known for its friendly, inclusive, and family-friendly atmosphere.

The festival was founded in 2004 by Joe Gibbs, a farmer and music lover, who initially envisioned a small, one-day event for 2,000 people. It was a massive success, and since then, it has grown significantly in both size and reputation. The festival has sold out in advance every year since 2008 and is now a three-day camping event, attracting around 24,000 attendees each day. Its unique setting, with stages nestled within the estate’s walled garden and woods, gives it an eccentric and enchanting feel.

The Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival is celebrated for its incredibly diverse musical lineup. While it has a strong reputation for featuring indie, folk, and Celtic music, it also hosts a wide range of other genres, including rock, pop, electronica, jazz, and even a bit of disco and ska. Previous headliners have included a mix of international and Scottish talent, from rock legends like Madness and Tom Jones to modern favourites like Primal Scream, Travis, and Deacon Blue. The festival also provides a platform for emerging local talent on its dedicated grassroots stages.

Beyond the music, Bella is a vibrant celebration of the arts, offering a variety of entertainment including comedy, theatre, poetry readings, and dance. There are also dedicated children’s areas with workshops, crafts, and circus skills, making it a truly welcoming event for all ages. The festival has consistently grown and evolved, earning accolades such as Best Large Festival at The Scottish E Awards in 2023.