Overview

This was the first time I'd attended a very large gathering post-pandemic; it was being held outdoors and having been before, I knew that we could distance socially and still have a great experience. You can bring picnics and seats and I've even seen a dinner table one time. Van Morrison was brilliant! I've seen him here before and he was ok then but not very interactive with the audience, however, this time he was much more engaging and even played 'Madame George' for the first time in years! His band were also amazing and as it was the 25th anniversary of The Extravaganza, the fireworks at the end were even more spectacular if that's possible, especially against the stunning background of the Abbey, which was also lit up for the occasion.

Transport & Parking

Stewards directed us to disabled parking which was specifically allocated for disabled attendees and this small car park was close to the accessible entrance to the event. The surface was reasonably smooth in my powerchair and there were a few spaces left when I got there.

Access

For a very old venue, the accessibility was great for me, although if you had a problem walking longer distances from your car to the site, you might have found it a bit of a trek although I think there are benches dotted along the pathway. There was also quite a tight turn to enter through the Abbey walls in my powerchair but it was manageable. The pathways and gravel within the venue are smooth but you go onto the grass to see the performer which is also fairly smooth apart from the odd tree root etc. There was plenty of room for everyone to sit in their respective groups plus dancing room at the back where I was, having said that, it was more packed in down at the front. I had a really good view of Van the Man as there were two huge screens; there was a lovely atmosphere with lots of families gathering to celebrate being out again for the anniversary.

Toilets

I avoided toilets as I didn't want to get too close to people, so sorry, I can't comment on what they were like.

Staff

I only met security staff but they were helpful and welcoming.

Anything else you wish to tell us?

Going into the venue, there was hand sanitiser available and you were asked to do Lateral Flow tests within a timescale of 48 hours before entering; you were also advised to wear a mask in the crowd. As it was outdoors and restrictions have been lifted in England, I don't remember seeing anyone wearing one, although we did at first. I felt safe throughout the concert and although everyone spaced out in the queue to go in, it was different at the end when my party had to go in front of and behind me and my P.A. to ask for some distance. Most people were very obliging, although we did notice a few grumbles but this didn't impact on my enjoyment of this amazing night!

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