Having struggled through this thread:

My first Sidmouth: 2004 festival superbly professionally organised, nearly 1000 events, wild LNEs at the Dance House, and the likes of Bellowhead and Banditaliana.

Possible 2005 festival: dodgy organisation, dances in school halls, the Wurzels and Show Of Hands.

No contest: I'm off to see what festivals take place over in Europe around the beginning of August. Any recommendations?