The Milntown Estate is set to not only welcome a gaggle of bicycle-lovers this spring, but will also provide a spectacular backdrop to what is set to become a real highlight in the Manx entertainment calendar.

The two-day festival at Milntown Estate on Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th May is the centrepiece of Isle of Man Cyclefest presented by Isle of Man Bank. The festival boasts a strong line up of local musicians, along with artisan food and drink from the Island’s best local producers, awe-inspiring stunts and plenty of fun for all the family.

The Cyclefest Main Stage will play host to the festival’s headline acts, with a high quality line up confirmed. Saturday’s headliners, the 11-piece soul band Retrospect, are guaranteed to fill any dance floor with their mix of classic Rhythm & Blues and funky soul sounds. Always ready to blast through a set of crowd-pleasing hits from the Motown and Stax stables - along with Northern Soul stompers and Mod cross-overs that are sure to delight any budding Bradley Wiggins – the Isle of Man’s very own ‘Commitments’ will ensure Saturday evening finishes on a really high note!

Saturday’s music bill also features one of the Island’s top talents in Matt Creer. A former student of the Royal College of Music, Matt has recently enjoyed a lot of airtime across BBC Radio, including the ‘Introducing’ series on BBC 6 Music. Merging folk traditions, with warm, rich layered arrangements, Matt has created a sound all of his own making – one that has taken him high up the iTunes singer songwriter chart.

Still on the main stage, Sunday’s ‘double header headliners’ are two Celtic super groups that are inextricably linked to the island that inspires their sound. In what is one of only a handful of appearances this spring, Isle of Man Cyclefest is delighted to play host to both Barrule and Mec Lir.

Firmly at the forefront of the Isle of Man’s music scene, Barrule are an award-winning trio who present a fresh take on traditional and contemporary Manx music, creating a powerful and wholly distinctive sound that is taking the Isle of Man’s music around the world. Since forming in 2012, Barrule’s three legs have taken them from Mann to Montreal to Melbourne. The trio’s festival appearances include Celtic Connections, WOMAD and the massive Festival Interceltique de Lorient, where Barrule won the prestigious competition for best act.

Like Barrule, Mec Lir forged a real following with their fresh approach to traditional music and they’re fast becoming festival favourites around the world. And it’s no wonder - their infectious and often atmospheric music is guaranteed to fill your soul with the sound of the Isle of Man. Indeed, their highly acclaimed appearance at Festival Interceltique de Lorient alone has attracted over a million views on social media sites. Returning to these shores after their rousing appearances at Celtic Colours in Canada and Scotland’s famous Celtic Connections, Mec Lir will guarantee a fitting finale to the festival come Sunday evening.

Away from the main stage, Manx arts and culture group Yn Chruinnaght will be delighting festival goers with their own mix of acoustic artists and groups – the perfect soundtrack for those sampling the fine local produce. And there’s plenty to choose from too, with cakes and tray bakes, delicious drinks and tasty artisan treats to please every palette.

There is more family entertainment planned for the dedicated children’s area, where local children’s hospice Rebecca House will be organising fun and games. Kids large and small can have a go at everything from Giant Jenga to face painting, meeting birds of prey and trying their hand in local crafts. And especially for the little ones, ‘Fair Play’ will be bringing their traditional Ferris Wheel and Carousel along for more time in the saddle!

Sure to entertain all the family is World Mountain Bike Trials rider Andrei Burton. Famous for his tricks on a Brompton Bike in the Berocca TV ad, the UK Ninja Warrior will be unveiling his latest stunt show over the two days in a specially constructed area in the Milntown Estate Gardens.

With official broadcaster Manx Radio coming live from the gardens, and yet more to see and do, the festival at Milntown is fast shaping up to be the must-see family event to welcome in the sunny days!

Wristband tickets are available to buy on-line now at www.iomcyclefest.com.  

Tickets for the Isle of Man Cyclefest Festival at Milntown Estate are subject to a discounted online price costing ?5 for single day entry (Saturday or Sunday), ?9 for a weekend ticket, ?15 for a family day pass and ?25 for a family weekend pass (2 adults and up to 2 children).

Isle of Man Cyclefest competitors receive 1 x free weekend pass per entry. Discounts are available for children under 16 and children under 5 go free.

Tickets also include free access to the Milntown Estate Gardens.