Larmer Tree Festival is back this weekend. And the fun starts TODAY when the gates open on the 2018 extravaganza.

With a stellar Larmer Tree line-up (as usual), we've managed to channel our excitement into the five things we're most looking forward to this year.

In no particular order, they are:

1) The line-up. Jake Bugg, Public Service Broadcasting and First Aid Kit are listed as top bill but there is SO much to enjoy. And that's not just the music. The comedy stage for 2018 is looking like a must-see with Sara Pascoe and Mark Watson both appearing alongside a jam-packed schedule of talks, poetry and theatre across the site. We're really looking forward to sampling the late-night fireside stories (if we're not too exhausted).

2) Having sampled the Bollywood dance workshops at Larmer Tree in the past, this year's selection of experiences won't leave us much time for anything else. And they are varied. AND without sounding too much like a cliche, there is something for everyone. From bird ringing with Birds of Poole Harbour and Stour Ringing Group, to a pop-up hula disco, slacklining, drumming, screen printing and sign writing. Basically, if you want to be busy, you can. Otherwise, see our next point for a tasty alternative.

3) Food. And drink. Lets face it, we can all come off the calorie counting for a festival. And with the array of tasty treats on offer this weekend, those belts are going to need to be loosened. Here's what's on our list to try: Barnaby Sykes Piemaker, Cafe Dish, The Curry Shed, Mac n Cheese (obvs) and Seacow for tasty fish and chips. For some liquid refreshment, you'll find us at either the 6 O'Clock Gin Bar or the Garden Bar. Or in the queue for a STRONG morning coffee.

Plus, the wonderful Dorset Farmers' Market will be back if you're still peckish.

4) Once you've exhausted yourself dancing/creating/hula dancing, take yourself off to Larmer Tree's Larmer Spa. Hot tubs, therapies and holistic workshops are on offer. From body re-alignment, cranial sacral therapy and holistic facials to massages and treatments, mindfulness meditation, warm bamboo massage, try your hand at something new. You can also enjoy a gong bath workshop, laughter yoga and Shamanic spirit trance dance - if it takes your fancy.

5) Let's not forget the beauty of Larmer Tree's stunning setting. You can escape the hustle of the main stage by escaping to the artist's sector, or Lostwood. This year, organisers have delved even deeper into the woods with The Wilds, which will be home to the Larmer Spa and Discotheque and is accessed through a secret tunnel in Lostwood. It seems a LOT of thought has gone into the different areas and how to make them even more magical than before. And frankly we can't wait to get there.

The Daily Echo will be covering the festival all weekend. Check out our Instagram (bournemouthecho) for posts over the weekend.