You could say it is like going around the world without the hassle of passports, airports and security checks. And what’s better, it is only a 30-minute drive from Swindon!

It is not just the vast array of outstanding musicians from all corners of the globe that make WOMAD both a special annual event and an irresistible excuse to break out the tent and sleeping bags for the weekend.

It is the kaleidoscopic collision of cultures, colours and cuisine that, among all of the festivals taking place in Britain this summer, creates a truly unique atmosphere.

Now in its 28th year, the World of Music Arts and Dance (WOMAD) festival takes place at Charlton Park, two miles from Malmesbury, during the weekend of July 23-25.

It relocated from Reading to the sprawling, scenic grounds of the Earl of Suffolk’s hereditary home in 2007 – which could hardly be better for Swindon’s die-hard band of WOMAD supporters.

For many, WOMAD – founded to raise awareness of arts, culture and music around the world – is an annual experience which simply cannot be by-passed.

I know at least a dozen people in Swindon who – if you’ll pardon the pun – wouldn’t miss it for the world.

When the New Year sets in, the chatter among them inevitably turns to WOMAD; whether they’ve got their tickets yet, who’s confirmed for the bill, and if they’ll be going this year on the Thursday or the Friday.

In many ways, the line-up is immaterial. They go anyway. And however wonderful it is, the music, it is generally agreed, is second to the ultra-relaxed vibe.

For all some of them care – especially the kids – Salif Keita could be the goalkeeper for the Ivory Coast. In fact, he’s one Africa’s greatest singers who is making a welcome return to WOMAD next week.

Educational consultant Martin Jones, 52, who is returning with wife Ann and children Jake, 11, and Maya, six, says: “WOMAD is very family-orientated. There’s so much for the kids to do.

“There’s a traditional fairground, dance and cookery workshops, face painting and drama tents. Predominantly, it’s about music, but our kids have always liked music.”

Martin goes on: “It can be educational too. Last year my son asked me where a particular band we were watching was from. I said ‘Cameroon’ and he wanted to know where that was.

“Then he asked me whether we were playing them in the World Cup!”

Electrician Gary Bowles, 52, usually goes to the Glastonbury and WOMAD festivals – but enjoys the latter best.

He says: “It can get really crowded at Glastonbury. It can be like Christmas shopping sometimes. It’s really head-on, especially around the Pyramid Stage .

“WOMAD is more relaxed. It’s for people of all ages too, and there’s plenty for kids to do. WOMAD is more hassle-free and the music is always amazing. It’s a brilliant event.”

Royal Mail worker and world music aficionado Dave Webb, 54, says: “I’ve been going to WOMAD for more than 20 years. It’s the one event I wouldn’t want to miss.

“It’s very laid back and you can see some of the best bands in the world. You can bring your own beer, too. There are no restrictions on bringing in alcohol like there are at many events.”

Lorry driver Dennis Carey, 58, who hasn’t missed WOMAD since the mid-1990s, says: “It’s a really nice vibe. People of all ages go to WOMAD – from nought to seventies and eighties.”

Dennis reckons the event has even improved since shifting to Charlton Park. “It used to get horrendously crowded on a Saturday at Reading. Charlton Park is a bigger site, there’s more space. The atmosphere is even better now.”