FITNESS fanatics will get the chance to pitch their tents at a historic venue when a brand-new festival comes to Essex.

Cressing Temple Barns will come to life next month when it hosts its very first yoga festival.

The inaugural one-day event, which will be run by Yoga Unites, will feature a mix of small classes and public sessions conducted from two open-air stages.

Numerous teachers will be attending the festival to help visitors try different styles of yoga and live music will also be provided by leading artists Shrinari - a duo who specialise in yoga music.

Those attending are being encouraged to bring their own tents and will have the chance to stay overnight to help add to the festival atmosphere.

Essex County Council will help organise the event, which takes place just weeks before the world yoga festival takes place in Reading.

Cllr Simon Walsh, Cabinet Member for Environment & Waste, said: “We are so thrilled to bring this wonderful new event to the beautiful grounds of Cressing Temple Barns. Yoga is a fantastic way to reduce stress and improve both mental and physical wellbeing.

"Whether you’re seeking calm from a hectic lifestyle or you simply want to try something new, this event offers a great opportunity to get active in a unique and historic location.”

Festival-goers will be able to drop in and out of classes or take time out to look around the Tudor walled garden.

Special guest Kwali Kumara will be transferring her London classes to Cressing for the day to share her top tips and offer a series of physical exercises, chanting and meditation.

Eco-friendly foodies Fig and Rye will provide food from their 'vintage horse box' and the ever-popular Tiptree Tearooms will also be on site.

The festival takes place on Saturday, June 8, between 10am-6pm.

Tickets cost £49 and includes all yoga sessions. One-night camping costs £85 or visitors can stay on both the Friday and Saturday nights for £115.

To purchase your tickets, ring 0345 603 7624.