The UK is bursting with music festivals, and we've chosen the top ones scheduled to take place in 2023, from London to Leicestershire via Cornwall.
Festivals in the UK have suffered a little in recent years. The epidemic made it impossible for large audiences to let their guard down for big-name concerts beneath starry summer nights, everything will be virtual, if feasible, in 2020. Some festivals, unfortunately, decided to end their operations owing to the uncertainty, while Glastonbury was one of the UK festivals to postpone its 2021 comebacks until 2022.
UK festivals 2023: 26 of the best https://t.co/zXqWhSqCS5 pic.twitter.com/XdfTqbLbZo
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Nonetheless, many people made it through the turbulence in the world, and this year's festival-goers had many options. Diana Ross and Billie Eilish performed on Glastonbury's Pyramid Stage, Creamfields returned with not one but two electronic festivals and up-and-coming performers got the opportunity to practice their vocal range in front of live audiences for the first time. The year 2023 is expected to be another fantastic one for entertainment, as the country will come alive in May, especially in London, where there will be enough festivals to occupy whole weekends.
1. Location, Suffolk
2023 Thursday, July 20, to Sunday, July 23
Ideal for: relaxed enjoyment
Latitude has a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere and is a terrific option for families and everyone else. Expect to encounter excellent comedy, poetry, and literary readings since performing arts make up a significant portion of the festival, in addition to the music. There will be something for every kind of festival-goer in 2023 when different award-winning artists perform on various stages. Also, remember to take advantage of the beautiful wooded surroundings, which are ideal for reconnecting with nature. Similar to 2022, food will play a significant role in the celebration, with different international delicacies available.
Pulp, Paolo Nutini, and George Ezra are on the 2023 lineup
Don't miss The opulent lounge area with film and art displays, delectable delicacies, and seats to unwind while watching DJ sets.
Where to eat: We're hoping the Theatre of Food makes a comeback with additional cooking classes, culinary demonstrations, barbecues, and even food discos.
Don't simply swim in the lake; take a stand-up paddleboarding instruction instead.
If you only bring one thing, make sure it's stylish swimwear for all your lakeside frolicking
Internet address: latitudefestival.com
Address: Henham Park, Suffolk, Latitude
2. Hertfordshire's Standon Calling
2023 Thursday, July 20, to Sunday, July 23
Best for independent children
This event is just about tiny enough to maintain a boutique vibe even though it is well-recognized for its energetic atmosphere. Primal Scream, a rock band, was one of the event's headliners in 2021, and in 2022, they returned with Madness, Anne-Marie, and Loyle Carner. Although the lineup for 2023 has not yet been revealed, there will undoubtedly be a wide-ranging arts, theater, and comedy program.
The lineup for 2023: TBC
Yoga brunch in the wild wellness area is a must-attend.
Spend money on a yurt suite to have a real bed, a duvet, and a hot shower.
Insider tip: For a change of scenery, visit the boogaloo woods stage. There, you can anticipate VR workshops, pub quizzes, and talks on the history of punk.
Swimwear if you could only bring one item.
Internet address: standon-calling.com
Location: Standon Lordship, Standon Calling, Standon, Hertfordshire
3. Dorset's Camp Bestival.
From July 27, 2023, until July 30, 2023
For: family-friendly entertainment
Camp Bestival is referred to as the younger sibling of the now sadly defunct Bestival. It was created by the same creative minds (DJ Rob da Bank and his wife Josie), and it forgoes some of the chaos of its older sibling in favor of a big focus on family-friendly vibes while still having a lot to offer festival-goers of all ages. The Human League, Sister Sledge, DJ Yoda, Jess Glynne, and others have performed in prior years. As there are so many activities accessible for kids, as you would have predicted, it is a definite family favorite. 2023's theme is "Animal Snap"! , putting on their wildest fancy dress and transforming the magnificent grounds of Lulworth Castle into a fantastic menagerie.
Grace Jones, Craig David, The Kooks, and Ella Henderson are on the 2023 lineup.
Don't miss: the outdoor theater
Where to stay: Gypsy belltop caravans and bell tents allow for a more enjoyable camping experience.
Insider tip: The Jurassic Coast and neighboring Lulworth Cove are stunning, so allow some time to visit and explore them.
During Camp Bestival, lavish fancy clothing is more essential than food or money, so bring enough of it.
url: campbestival.net
Address: Lulworth Castle, Dorset, Camp Bestival
4. Somerset's Glastonbury
From June 21, 2023, to June 25, 2023
Ideal for: checking off an über-festival from the wish list
The behemoth is never really a modest occasion, but the next full Glastonbury festival is set to be greater than the typical one, with millions hoping to get sought-after tickets after the festival was attended by owners of 2019 tickets provided by Covid in 2022. Diana Ross claimed a legendary position on the pyramid stage with superstars like Billie Eilish, Paul McCartney, and Kendrick Lamar in 2022, which served as a postponed 50th-anniversary celebration. The Glastonbury experience is about more than just music; there will be plenty of other enjoyable activities, such as all-night parties, gastronomic pop-ups, and lectures in the woods.
Elton John, Arctic Monkeys, and Guns 'n Roses will be the headliners in 2023. Lizzo and Lewis Capaldi will also perform.
Don't miss Shangri-La, a crazy, chaotic party environment complete with performance, art, comedy, and all-night DJ performances.
Where to eat: We hope the luxurious diner comes back. Renowned chef Andy Evans and the staff there have previously presented inventive cuisine, including vegetarian and vegan alternatives while being accompanied by a live jazz band.
Get oriented, but avoid making detailed plans. Instead, explore the area; you're sure to find something amazing.
If you only bring one item, make it the compact Fjällräven Abisko Hike 15 backpack to carry your necessities. It will save you from having to make several exhausting trips back to your tent every few hours.
Internet address: glastonburyfestivals.co.uk
Address: Pilton, Somerset, Worthy Farm, Glastonbury
5. Oxfordshire, Cornbury Park, and the wilderness
Aug. 3, 2023, until Aug. 6, 2023.
Pure boutique vibes are ideal.
It's not difficult to see why Wilderness has amassed a sizable fan base over the years once you visit its expansive, enchanted forest playground, located on the grounds of Cornbury Park. The culinary selection at Wilderness is truly unparalleled; chefs from last year include Skye Gyngell, Adam Handling, Robin Gill, and more. Big-name indie headliners share the stage with hip alternative performers, comedians, authors, and more than a few brilliant chefs.
The lineup for 2023: TBC
Don't miss the Juke Joint, a cozy space with world music, dancing, and a festive atmosphere.
Where to stay: Penthouse suites provide a touch of stately home flair to your camping trip.
Observer advice: it pays to stray from the crowd since festival artists could reward your curiosity by bringing you to off-menu events.
Yoga mats, whether for scheduled courses or simply a few morning sun salutations by the lake, should be your one item to take.
Internet address: wildernessfestival.com
Address: Cornbury Park, Oxfordshire, home of the Wilderness Festival
Weekend camping passes start at £230 + booking fees.
6. Cornwall's Boardmasters
August 2023, from Wednesday, August 9, to Sunday, August 13,
Great for: relaxing at the beach
Due to severe weather warnings, it was postponed until the very last minute in 2019 and, therefore, in 2020. But, in 2021 and 2022, the festival was once again held in its idyllic location on Cornwall's west coast. Kayaking, coastal runs, surf lessons, wellness workshops, and yoga classes are just a few of the outdoor activities available with the music (a blend of indie, rock, hip hop, and dance). Just relax in a secluded area of the beach when you need some peace.
The lineup for 2023: TBC
Don't miss the net loft, a working fisherman's hut that hosts small concerts and fun get-togethers.
The Keg & Pasty is a clifftop pub that serves top-notch Cornish pasties.
See the World Surf League qualification series at Fistral Beach if you get an opportunity; you could witness a future champion catching the ideal wave there.
If you only bring one item, make it a sturdy pair of sandals to enhance your comfort while spending time at the beach.
URL: boardmasters.com
Address: Boardmasters in Newquay, Cornwall, between Fistral Beach and Watergate Bay.
7. Norfolk's Houghton Festival
Thursday, August 10, to Sunday, August 13, 2023
Best for top-notch sound systems and matching DJ sets
For 2023, the Houghton team is back and prepared to continue where they left off. With a glittering lineup of DJs and producers spinning underground dance, techno, disco, and leftfield rhythms in a hidden woodland paradise, Houghton has a mood that is solidly electronic and was founded by Craig Richards of the famed London club Fabric and members of the crew behind Gottwood festival.
The lineup for 2023: TBC
The site's varied art, particularly the sculpture park, should not be overlooked.
There are several types of glamping accommodations available.
Secret tip: Since you have a 24-hour music license, you may work according to your schedule, whatever that may be.
If you only bring one item, make it a signal booster to help with the usually spotty phone coverage during the event. However, you could go dancing and not worry about phone service.
Site: houghtonfestival.com
Address: Kings Lynn, Norfolk, Houghton Hall, Houghton Festival
8. Green Man, Brecon Beacons, Wales
August 20, 2023, from Thursday through Sunday.
Ideal for: imaginative people
With its setting in the Welsh Brecon Beacons, Green Man is a strong candidate for "most gorgeous UK festival site," and it has maintained its autonomous, artistic spirit despite rising in popularity over time. There are a variety of activities to participate in, including sound therapy sessions, interesting discussions, science seminars, and a well-picked musical cast that will appeal to fans of indie, folk, and alternative rock. It's a family-friendly occasion with much to keep parents and children engaged.
The lineup for 2023: TBC
Don't miss natural nurturing, where you may get relaxing massages, contemplative drawing classes, and reviving hot baths.
The opulent yet cozy Gliffaes Country House Hotel is a great place to stay.
Go there early on Sunday evening to get a good place for the ceremonial burning of the Green Man, according to an insider tip.
If you only bring one thing, make it a portable instrument for campfire jam sessions (if you can play one, of course).
url: greenman.net
Location: Green Man in Crickhowell, Wales's Brecon Beacons.
9. Cambridgeshire, We Out Here
July 10 to August 14, 2023, on Thursday
Best for Getting in on the ground floor of perhaps the hottest new event in the Country.
We Out Here, which only debuted in 2019, has already received a ton of great comments and generated a sizable buzz, in part because Gilles Peterson, an internationally renowned DJ, and presenter, is in charge of the music. Peterson compiles an outstanding line-up that includes jazz, house, Afrobeat, disco, soul, drum'n'bass, and other cutting-edge sounds with the help of his Brownswood Records team and Global Radio. Also, the stunning rural environment served as the location of the renowned former festival Secret Garden Party.
Sun Ra Arkestra, Black Midi, and Cymande are the 2023 lineup
Don't forget to visit the enormous, beautiful swimming lake, which is ideal for cooling down if the weather cooperates.
Where to stay: To have a more comfortable camping experience, get an octo pad.
If you want to attend the finest parties, go deep into the forest at night.
Comfortable shoes for all the rambling in the forest should be your one item to pack.
Internet address: weoutherefestival.com
Postal Code: Cambridgeshire, Us Out Here, Abbots Ripton
10. Lincolnshire's Lost Village
August 25, 2023, until August 28, 2023
Exploratory raving is ideal.
There are several events where you may stroll through a forest, but none quite compare to Lost Village, where you'll come across abandoned homes and cars, former airports, creepy woodland pathways, and other enigmatic sights. There are also dinners, a robust fitness program, comedy, seminars, interviews, and free workshops if you'd rather unwind than explore. Expect great DJs and vivacious live performers since the goal of music at Lost Village is to get people moving.
The lineup for 2023: TBC
The energy garden, which has hot tubs, a Finnish sauna, massages, and yoga sessions, is a must-see.
Where to stay: The boutique hideaway offers a cocktail bar, luxurious baths, and charging stations for phones.
Places to eat: In the past, renowned chefs like Melissa Hemsley and Tim Siadatan have served up forest feasts as well as gourmet dining experiences in the woods at Kol, Da Terra, and Roberta Hall.
Go off-map; the more into the forest you go, the more you may lose yourself in a carefully constructed environment.
If you only bring one thing, make it an Ultimate Ears Boom 3 portable Bluetooth speaker so you can continue the party when you get back to your tent.
Internet address: lostvillagefestival.com
Address: Lincolnshire's Lost Village Festival
11. Cheshire's Creamfields
August 20, 2023, from Thursday through Sunday
Perfect for: blissful hand-in-air dancing
After twenty years, Creamfields is still going strong and is a must-attend event for fans of electronic music. Get ready for some crowds because it's billed as the largest dance event in the UK and draws 70,000 club-loving visitors to the venue (midway between Liverpool and Manchester). It should come as no surprise that this weekend will be dominated by DJs, with some of the biggest selectors in the world providing the music. The music will mostly be house, techno, and trance, but it will also include underground, disco, and drum'n'bass sounds. There aren't many classes or activities offered here because Creamfields is mostly a dance-focused party venue.
The lineup for 2023: Swedish House Mafia
Don't miss the incredible performances at several of the larger stages.
Where to stay: The Dreamfields area has magnificent tipis with all the modern conveniences.
To avoid becoming overwhelmed by the throng and to facilitate regrouping, bring a portable phone charger.
Alpine SleepSoft earplugs for when you want to leave the party should be the only item in your bag.
url: creamfields.com
Address: Daresbury Estate, Creamfields, Cheshire WA4 4AG
12. Northamptonshire, Shambala
August 20, 2023, from Thursday through Sunday
Ideal for: long-lasting dancing
Shambala celebrates the spiritual aspect of festival-going more than most while still providing a full-blown party scene for those who desire it. Shambala is still autonomous and proudly unsponsored. The festival has always placed a high priority on sustainability, eliminating meat and fish in 2016 and using only renewable energy and no single-use plastics. In addition to music from over 200 artists spread across 12 stages, other entertainment options include cabaret, circus performances, poetry readings, debate and discussion hubs, and workshops.
The lineup for 2023: TBC
Don't miss: the variety of vegetarian and vegan meals; Shambala puts a lot of attention into its menu, and it's a wonderful opportunity to sample cuisine from around the world.
Where to stay: at the family camping area in intent, an upcycled canvas tent from the 1970s.
Observer advice: dress appropriately for the Sunday festivities. The topic will be revealed, and participants are urged to create their costumes out of recyclable materials.
If you only bring one thing, utilize a rCup produced from recycled paper cups for your morning coffee to help Shambala's plastic-free program.
Internet address: shambalafestival.org
Address: Hidden Country Farm, Northamptonshire, Shambala Festival
13. The Reading and Leeds Festivals
August 25, 2023, until August 27, 2023
Best for young audiences
Reading debuted as the National Jazz Festival in 1961, making it one of the oldest festivals of popular music in existence. Since then, it has successfully changed to fit new musical trends and tastes, and it is now bigger than ever with a record-breaking 105,000 attendees in 2019. Leeds Festival, the younger sibling of Reading Festival, debuted in 1999 with various days featuring the same bands. Before it was postponed in 2020, Rage Against the Machine was scheduled to perform at Reading and Leeds for their first UK concert in ten years. Halsey, Bring Me The Horizon, Joy Crookes, Bastille, Wolf Alice, Little Simz, and PinkPantheress were all on the 2022 lineup, while Artic Monkeys, Dave, and Megan Thee Stallion served as the event's official headliners.
The lineup for 2023: TBC
Don't miss The lock-up stage, which frequently hosts some of the festival's great performances by underground punk artists.
Where to stay: anywhere there is room.
Camping near a marking will make it easier for you to locate your tent at all times.
If you bring one item, make it a top-notch raincoat.
Internet address: readingfestival.com
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