Houghton Festival returned for its seventh instalment this month, and once again proved why it's becoming one of the most in-demand events of the summer.

This year, those wanting to return to the grounds of Houghton Hall and revel in one of the only UK festivals with a licence to blast music round the clock had to be quick. 

Considering the event has previously entertained Kate Middleton, it's hard to imagine it growing any more exclusive. But somehow, it is.

Around 14,000 attended the festival (Image: Ross Nagel)

This year tickets sold out in under four hours, every one of them flogged as part of a pre-sale exclusively offered to those who had been before.

The festival has become something of a yearly pilgrimage for hardy ravers wholly invested in experiencing the very best in house and techno music, that simply doesn't stop. 

And you can see why. This year, with Glastonbury sitting out its fallow year, Houghton ascended even further in the UK's ultimate festival rankings.

The light show is something to behold (Image: Henry Durand)

No wellies were needed either. Instead of the all-too-familiar West Country mud, attendees found themselves battling clouds of dust, which saw many don stylish face masks while they danced the night away. But it did little to smother the spirits.

As the dust settles on the event a few weeks on, I'm able to reflect on what is one of the most unique, and beautiful, festivals I've ever been lucky enough to........

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