Music Festivals in the UK

The UK is famous for its vibrant and eclectic music festival scene, where there’s something for everyone—from indie lovers to electronic dance enthusiasts to fans of good old rock and roll.

Whether you’re into discovering the hottest new acts or rocking out to legendary headliners, you’ll find it here!

This guide highlights some of the UK’s most exciting festivals and why they’re a must for your summer (or autumn) calendar.

So, pack your wellies, get your festival outfits ready, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure!

1. The Great Escape

Location: Brighton
Date: Early May

If discovering fresh talent before they hit the mainstream sounds exciting, then The Great Escape is your dream festival.

This event transforms the beautiful seaside city of Brighton into a sprawling live music venue, hosting more than 450 emerging artists across numerous locations.

It’s not just the line-up that’s impressive—there’s a buzz in the air as music fans wander from gig to gig, hoping to catch the next big thing.

The Great Escape also features industry talks, making it a hotbed of networking for those working in music.

Expect diverse sounds ranging from indie rock to cutting-edge electronic beats.

Visit the festival’s official website to discover the latest line-up and get your tickets: www.greatescapefestival.com

2. Download Festival

Location: Donington Park, Leicestershire
Date: Early June

If headbanging to the sound of screaming guitars, pounding drums, and thunderous basslines is your idea of a good time, then Download Festival is where you need to be.

Held in the iconic Donington Park—practically hallowed ground for rock and metal fans—Download brings together a line-up of heavy metal legends, from Metallica to Iron Maiden, and the finest new talent from the world of rock.

It’s not just the music that makes this festival stand out; the camaraderie of the fans creates an unrivalled atmosphere.

Whether you’re moshing in the pit or relaxing in the (rare) sunshine with a cold drink, this is a festival you’ll never forget.

Secure your spot and find out more about the event on their website: www.downloadfestival.co.uk

3. Isle of Wight Festival

Location: Isle of Wight
Date: Mid-June

Steeped in history, Isle of Wight Festival has been bringing good vibes and legendary performances since the 1960s.

Originally a counter-culture event, it has evolved into a multi-generational experience where the whole family can enjoy top-tier music in a relaxed, friendly setting.

What makes this festival special is its mix of the old and new—where rock icons share the bill with chart-topping pop and indie acts.

Plus, the festival’s island location means you can soak up the natural beauty as you dance to hits from the likes of The Rolling Stones or Fleetwood Mac (previous headliners) and the stars of tomorrow.

Ready to book your tickets? Head to the official website for more details: www.isleofwightfestival.com

4. Glastonbury Festival

Location: Worthy Farm, Somerset
Date: Late June

There’s no festival quite like Glastonbury. With its larger-than-life line-up, fields as far as the eye can see, and a mind-blowing variety of entertainment, it’s no wonder Glastonbury is the UK’s most iconic festival.

It’s not just about the music, either—Glastonbury is a sensory overload, from the famous Pyramid Stage hosting the biggest global superstars, to hidden, intimate venues where you might stumble upon the next big thing.

Between performances, lose yourself in art installations, get lost in the festival’s creative markets, or indulge in global cuisine.

If you’re a festival enthusiast, Glastonbury is a pilgrimage you must make at least once in your life.

Find out everything you need to know, including how to get tickets, by visiting: www.glastonburyfestivals.co.uk

5. Wireless Festival

Location: Finsbury Park, London
Date: Early July

For fans of urban music, Wireless Festival is the crown jewel of the UK festival season.

Taking over London’s Finsbury Park each July, this festival is a playground for hip-hop, grime, R&B, and rap lovers.

Whether it’s global superstars like Drake and Cardi B or UK favourites like Stormzy and Dave, Wireless delivers a line-up packed with chart-toppers.

The crowd is buzzing, the beats are infectious, and there’s never a dull moment.

Wireless perfectly captures the energy and excitement of the urban music scene, making it one of the summer’s hottest tickets.

Make sure you don’t miss out! For all the latest info, visit: www.wirelessfestival.co.uk

6. Latitude Festival

Location: Henham Park, Suffolk
Date: Mid-July

Combining music, art, comedy, and nature, Latitude Festival is a festival like no other.

Set in the picturesque countryside of Suffolk, it’s an escape from everyday life, filled with culture and creativity.

Latitude’s line-up is always eclectic, featuring everything from indie favourites like Snow Patrol to genre-bending performances by experimental artists.

Families love the festival’s laid-back vibe, with plenty of kid-friendly activities, while festival-goers of all ages can enjoy theatre shows, comedy acts, poetry readings, and even wild swimming.

And let’s not forget the famous pink sheep that roam the grounds!

Plan your visit to this whimsical wonderland by heading to: www.latitudefestival.com

7. Camp Bestival

Location: Lulworth Castle, Dorset
Date: End of July

Looking for a festival where both kids and adults can have a blast? Camp Bestival is the ultimate family-friendly event.

Set in the stunning grounds of Lulworth Castle, this festival combines world-class music with a range of activities and workshops designed to entertain all ages.

Whether you’re dancing to headline acts, watching circus performances, or crafting with the kids, there’s something for everyone.

Camp Bestival is all about creating memories—so pack up the family, pitch your tent, and get ready for a weekend of fun.

Find out how to join the party at: https://dorset.campbestival.net

8. Boomtown Fair

Location: Matterley Estate, Hampshire
Date: Second week of August

Boomtown Fair is not just a music festival—it’s an immersive, theatrical experience unlike anything else.

Imagine a sprawling city come to life, with themed districts that transport you into different worlds, all while top-notch acts from reggae, ska, punk, and electronic music play across various stages.

The festival’s attention to detail is mind-blowing, with elaborate sets and a storyline that unfolds throughout the weekend.

Boomtown isn’t just about the music—it’s about becoming part of a community and diving into a world of creativity, music, and performance art.
Get ready for a wild adventure.

Check out all the details at: www.boomtownfair.co.uk

9. Reading and Leeds Festivals

Location: Reading and Leeds
Date: August Bank Holiday weekend

If you’re looking for a classic rock and alternative festival, Reading and Leeds is where it’s at.

These two sister festivals, held simultaneously over the August Bank Holiday, are a rite of passage for rock and indie fans.

With a history dating back to the 1970s, these festivals have seen everyone from Nirvana to Arctic Monkeys take to the stage.

But it’s not all about guitars—recent years have seen hip-hop, electronic, and pop acts like Kendrick Lamar and The 1975 join the bill.

With an unbeatable atmosphere and some of the best line-ups around, it’s no wonder these festivals are festival-goers’ favourites.

Find out how to join the fun at: www.readingandleedsfestival.com

10. Creamfields

Location: Daresbury, Cheshire
Date: August Bank Holiday weekend

Creamfields is the ultimate destination for electronic dance music fans.

For four days, this festival transforms the Cheshire countryside into a playground for ravers, with world-class DJs and producers delivering non-stop beats across multiple stages.

Expect dazzling light shows, explosive pyrotechnics, and a crowd that’s there to dance until the sun comes up.

With DJs like Calvin Harris, Tiësto, and Carl Cox at the helm, Creamfields is a bucket-list festival for anyone who loves electronic music.

Ready to rave? Get all the info at: www.creamfields.com

11. End of the Road Festival

Location: Larmer Tree Gardens, Dorset
Date: End of August / Early September

Looking for something more intimate and alternative?

End of the Road is the perfect indie festival, offering a serene setting in the beautiful Dorset woodlands.

The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, with a line-up that champions indie, folk, and alternative acts.

Past line-ups have featured the likes of Fleet Foxes and Vampire Weekend, alongside exciting up-and-coming artists.

The festival also has a creative side, with art installations, film screenings, and even literature talks—so there’s plenty to explore in between sets.

Check out this charming festival at: www.endoftheroadfestival.com

12. Hospitality in the Park

Location: Finsbury Park, London
Date: Mid-September

Hospitality in the Park is the festival every drum and bass fan needs to attend.

Set in the heart of London’s Finsbury Park, this one-day event is packed with high-energy performances from the biggest names in the scene.

With top DJs and producers hitting the decks, expect the best beats, bass drops, and an atmosphere that’ll keep you dancing all day long.

Whether you’re a seasoned raver or just dipping your toes into the world of drum and bass, Hospitality in the Park promises an unforgettable experience.

Get all the details and tickets here: www.hospitalityinthewoods.com

13. Simple Things Festival

Location: Bristol
Date: October

If you’re into underground and experimental music, Simple Things is the festival for you.

Held across multiple venues in Bristol, this unique event is a journey through some of the best electronic, indie, and alternative music around.

From intimate gigs to full-on raves, Simple Things delivers a fresh and forward-thinking line-up year after year.

Plus, with Bristol’s vibrant music scene as the backdrop, the festival offers a blend of day and night programming that showcases cutting-edge talent from around the world.

Learn more and grab your tickets here: www.simplethingsfestival.co.uk

14. London Jazz Festival

Location: Various venues in London
Date: Mid-November

The EFG London Jazz Festival is a treat for jazz lovers, offering everything from smooth classics to boundary-pushing modern jazz.

Taking place across some of London’s most iconic venues, including the Royal Festival Hall and intimate jazz clubs, this festival is the ultimate celebration of jazz in all its forms.

Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or a curious newcomer, the London Jazz Festival is a chance to immerse yourself in the beauty and diversity of this timeless genre.

Explore the full programme and book tickets at: www.efglondonjazzfestival.org.uk

Your Music Festival Adventure Awaits

There you have it—the UK’s best music festivals, each with its unique vibe and an incredible line-up.

Whether you’re a seasoned festival-goer or a first-timer, these events promise unforgettable experiences filled with amazing music, fantastic atmospheres, and plenty of fun.

So why wait? Start planning your festival season now!