Hektor Rous, who resides with his wife Sarah and their three children on the sprawling 4,200-acre Henham Park estate near Southwold, Suffolk, has reflected on two decades of hosting Latitude Festival. As the event marks its 20th anniversary this week, Rous describes the annual transformation of his home into a vibrant cultural hub as "heaven" and a fantastic experience that brings the entire place alive.
Since its inception in 2006, Latitude has evolved from a smaller gathering into one of the UK's most significant festivals, now attracting more than 40,000 daily visitors. Rous, who moved to Suffolk from Australia in 2004 to manage the estate owned by his father, Keith Rous, 6th Earl of Stradbroke, credits the festival organisers, Festival Republic, for putting both Suffolk and Henham Park firmly on the map. He expressed immense pride in the festival's continuous improvement and its enduring presence at the estate.
Founded by Melvin Benn, Latitude was conceived to offer more than just a music festival, placing equal emphasis on poets, writers, and comedians alongside musical acts. Over the years, it has hosted a diverse array of talent, including Ed Sheeran, Snow Patrol, Patti Smith, and Florence and the Machine. This year's line-up continues this tradition, featuring headliners David Byrne, Teddy Swims, and Lewis Capaldi, with comedy stalwarts such as Ross Noble, Sarah Pascoe, Lenny Henry, and Jack Dee also performing.
Rous, who initially had limited exposure to the festival culture prevalent in the UK, quickly recognised the unique magic of Latitude. He admitted he couldn't have predicted its immense growth and its status as an iconic event in the Suffolk calendar. Beyond the star-studded performances, Rous highlights the festival's distinct atmosphere, where attendees can find both quiet contemplation and lively entertainment, from swimming in the lake to enjoying a sauna in the woods or dancing until the early hours.
He further emphasised Latitude's family-orientated and Suffolk-centric vibe, setting it apart from other festivals. The event represents a significant highlight for the Rous family, who are reportedly "pumped" for this year's festivities. Looking ahead, Rous expressed excitement for the next two decades of Latitude, anticipating its continued success and unique contribution to the cultural landscape.