UK’s Swingathon sex festival organiser rejects ‘loud moaning’ complaints from nearby residents

The organiser of one of the UK’s most notorious adult festivals has hit back at local complaints, denying claims that “hours-long moaning” could be heard from kilometres away during the three-day Swingathon event.

Now in its fifth year, Swingathon drew nearly 1000 people last weekend — more than the entire population of the sleepy rural town.

The event bills itself as “Glastonbury with orgies,” but Matt Cole, the founder of the sexually-liberated Lincolnshire festival, says the focus is much broader than just sex.

Mr Cole said reports of noise drifting into the nearby village of Allington were “basically a lie” — and physically implausible.

“Yes, we had (moaning), but the complaints are basically a lie,” he said on news.com.au’s From the Newsroom podcast.

“We are three miles from the nearest village, so if anyone can scream that loud … that’s a scream.”

“It’s got live music and entertainment, but it’s for people in the lifestyle,” he explained, referring to ethical non-monogamy and swinging.

Behind the gates, festivalgoers, many in lingerie, costumes, or nothing at all, take part in workshops and themed events, ranging from pole dancing and burlesque to kink demonstrations like wax play, flogging, and rope bondage.

There are foam parties, hot tubs, and massage classes, where adult toys are awarded as prizes.

There are also sanctioned tents for those wanting to explore more intimate connections, but Mr Cole is quick to point out that the festival is consent-based, community-oriented, and far less scandalous than outsiders assume.

“It’s not what people think. You don’t just turn up and start swinging,” he said.

“Many people come for the confidence, the body positivity, and the friendships.”

Tickets cost around $470 AUD for couples and $400 for singles, and attendees this year ranged from age 21 to 69, with an average age of 37.

Mr Cole said most of the backlash comes from local discomfort with the concept of the festival, not its actual impact.

“It’s a lot of stigma,” he said.

“We’re just offering a safe, fun, open-minded space — and doing it far away from anyone else’s backyard.”

While complaints may continue to bubble up, Mr Cole and his crew appear undeterred.

If anything, Swingathon is only getting louder — figuratively, at least.