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.
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.
14. Victoria Park, All Points East, London
Thursday, 17 August 2023
Great for: keeping an eye on things
This up-and-coming festival in London has already established itself as a must-attend event for fans of alternative music. APE's 2022 lineup at East London's Victoria Park featured veterans like the Gorillaz, Tame Impala, The Chemical Brothers, and Disclosure alongside rising stars like Michael Kiwanuka, FKJ, and The Blaze. Based on the results of 2022, the 2023 program will undoubtedly be successful.
The lineup for 2023: Stormzy
Batty Langley's, Spitalfields, is a place to stay.
As Victoria Park is enormous, be sure to locate the entrance before visiting to prevent having to climb the entire thing from the outside.
If you bring one thing, make sure it's a variety of ride-hailing apps so you have a backup in case the entire festival calls for an Uber when it's time to leave.
Internet address: allpointseastfestival.com
Address: Victoria Park, All Points East, London
15. Gottwood, Wales' Anglesey
Friday, May 31, to Sunday, June 11, 2023
Great for: flawless DJ lineups
Due to its intimate setting in a remote woodland on the stunning Welsh island of Anglesey, this small-scale event has more of a sense of a small gathering than a large festival. You'll be dancing all weekend to underground electronic rhythms created by a long list of influential DJs in the industry, including Seth Troxler, Margaret Dygas, Andrew Weatherall, and Josey Rebelle.
The lineup for 2023: TBC
Don't miss: the (hopefully) return of Ruffy's lab, hosted by Ruf Dug, the head of the Rüf Kutz label, where you can find anything from retro video gaming sessions to seminars and DJ performances, all with a house party vibe.
Where to eat: Reserve a table in advance at the floating pop-up restaurant Nest on the Lake.
Remember to verify the alcohol restrictions before packing; last year, it was eight beers or ciders and two bottles of wine, but no spirits were allowed.
If you bring nothing else, make sure to bring ACS earplugs to protect your hearing during the all-night raves.
URL: gottwood.co.uk
Wales addresses include Gottwood, Carreglwyd, Llanfaethlu, and Holyhead.
16. Wiltshire's End of the Road Festival
Thursday, August 31, to Sunday, September 3, 2023
Best for: Mystics of nature
End of the Road stands out as a real novelty in an era of commercial, carefully chosen events. It rises from the underbrush on a Dorset estate where peacocks wander and a feeling of magical realism falls over the countryside for a long weekend, possibly similar to Green Man Festival but a little livelier. It may be experimental and avant-garde while preserving a true feeling of community. It has been meticulously crafted with attention to detail and a bag full of surprises (the kids will love it as much as their forty-something parents). Fleet Foxes, Pixies, and Bright Eyes were among the top acts in 2022.
The lineup for 2023: TBC
Don't overlook the piano stage, which is concealed behind the wood. There is no advance announcement of acts; show up
Where to stay: If you can, get a bell tent in the fancy camping area. If you need to stay somewhere else, there are several inns in the neighboring area, such as the Fleur de Lys in Cranborne.
Insider advice: keep an ear out for the yearly secret performances by well-known and emerging musicians. Then unwind with a round of crazy golf, where one of the "holes" in 2019 was an abandoned automobile with its doors open.
If you take one item, have an open mind.
url: endoftheroadfestival.com
Larmer Tree Gardens in the vicinity of Blandford, Dorset
17. Noisey, Leicestershire
Friday, July 5, through Sunday, July 9, 2023
Most suitable for: psychedelic souls
If you've ever wanted to hear a set blasted out from a 10-meter-high laser-mapped pyramid surrounded by flame throwers, this is the place for you. The forest event will include different types of kaleidoscopic electronic sounds, including psytrance, techno, tribal house, dub, and drum'n'bass. The Mind Body Soul section provides more wonders, which may range from meditation and life-drawing classes to didgeridoo workshops and sound therapy. Among the 2022 acts were Regan, Ipcress, James Monro, and Henri Bergmann.
The lineup for 2023: TBC
Mind-bending artworks strewn around the woodland are not to be missed.
Accommodations include a luxurious bell tent or a yurt from Green Yurts.
Get a reservation for a woodland supper.
Study the schedule in advance since there are so many exciting seminars, performances, ceremonies, and other events that they may constitute a distinct festival.
If you only bring one thing, make sure it's a Chilly's reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and environmentally friendly.
Internet address: noisilyfestival.com
Address: Noseley Hall, Leicestershire, Noisily Festival
18. La Dorado in Herefordshire
Friday, July 5, through Sunday, July 9, 2023
Suitable for: wacky fun
El Dorado resembles and feels like a massive, utterly bizarre village fair. With games, antique markets, and theater, it also has activities to match. Contrary to a village festival, it includes a fantastic lineup of live performers and DJs that will start the party and keep the energy up all weekend. Keep an eye out for a 2023 line-up that's just as intriguing since 2022 included big-name bands like Earth, Wind & Fire, Luc Moody, and Groove Armada.
The lineup for 2023: TBC
Don't miss the sassçienda to spice things up with drag and burlesque performances and late-night DJ sets.
The opulent mega bell tents with genuine mattresses, electrical outlets, and cotton towels are just one of the upscale camping alternatives available.
It's a cashless event, so keep topping up a contactless wristband in that regard.
A few outrageous outfits are all you need to bring; trust us, you don't want to feel left out.
Internet address: eldoradofestival.com
Address: Eastnor Castle Deer Park, Herefordshire, El Dorado Festival
19. Cheshire's Bluedot Festival
July 20, 2023, to July 23, 2023
Best for: partying while studying.
The fact that this super-smart festival is held within the Jodrell Bank Observatory adds to its uniqueness as it merges music and science. As a result, there are several mind-expanding experiments (of the legal variety) to see and participate in, along with speeches and debates from scientists, art, and much more. Yet Bluedot hasn't abandoned music to advance science, and there will be a stellar, genre-defying lineup of performers in 2022, including Björk and Metronomy. A terrific choice for families, too.
The lineup for 2023: Max Richter
The Nebula stage, which features underground electronic music and nighttime events, is not to be missed.
A luxurious bedouin tent is available for rent at the colony boutique campsite.
To immerse yourself in exotic audiovisual artwork, come to the space section when another activity slows down.
Use the Olympus OM-D E-M10 III if you carry one thing: a quality but portable camera to record the amazing visual marvels occurring.
Visit the website at bluedot.com.
Address: Jodrell Bank Observatory, Bluedot Festival, Cheshire
20. The Isle of Wight Festival
Friday, June 1 to Sunday, June 18, 2023
Best for: performers that can fill stadiums
The Isle of Wight Festival, which has a rich musical history owing to performances by artists like Jimi Hendrix, Joni Mitchell, and The Doors in 1970, leans more toward well-known artists these days than counterculture icons, but it is still a huge event. A diverse group of musicians, including Lionel Richie, Lewis Capaldi, UB40, and Craig David, were on the 2022 lineup. In other locations, you may discover comedy, movie showings, theater productions, different food, and lots of activities to keep kids entertained.
Pulp, Robbie Williams, N-Dubz, and Blondie are on the 2023 lineup.
Where to stay: For some fantastic, hand-picked hotels, check out our Island of Wight travel guide.
Consider adding a few more days on either side of the festival to experience the island's culinary pleasures.
Pack a pair of Hunter wellington boots if you can only bring one thing. intelligent and ultimately practical if the location becomes muddy
Internet address: isleofwightfestival.com
Address: Seaclose Park, Newport, Island of Wight, Isle of Wight Festival
21. Hampshire's Boomtown Fair
Wednesday, August 9, to Sunday, August 13, 2023
Best for a hands-on adventure
There are celebrations with a theme here and there, and then there is Boomtown. After reveling in the joyously chaotic throngs for a few days, it might be impossible to distinguish where the tale ends and reality begins since this paradise of an event immerses you so deeply in its constantly expanding engrossing plot. The result is a fantastically imaginative experience that emphasizes music production, performers, and being a part of the many "districts" as much as it does beats & bass, dub, reggae, soul, disco, and some live punk performances.
Much of the 2023 lineup has been kept a mystery.
Don't miss: perhaps Area 404's comeback. This venue first debuted in 2019 and is modeled as a future industrial quarter with plenty of events.
A lavish Indian Shikar tent for a sumptuous retreat away from the crowds is the perfect place to stay.
Find the Boomtown Jobcentre, acquire "work," and earn Boomtown Dollars, which may be used to purchase a variety of entertainment.
A Lifesystems lightweight headlamp will not only help you locate your tent at night but will also be enjoyable to use when you're high.
Site: boomtownfair.co.uk
Postal Code: SO24 OHY Address: Boomtown, Matterley Estate, Ovington Down
22. Love Supreme, East Sussex
30 June to 2 July 2023, on Friday
Jazz discovery or rediscovery is best.
The notion of a jazz festival might not seem all that tempting if you don't enjoy jazz, but at Love Supreme, soul, funk, blues, reggae, and R&B are also in large quantities, and numerous exciting DJ sets to keep things going late into the night. Love Supreme is a no-brainer if you enjoy jazz, of course, since scene veterans and fascinating newcomers will be performing together. The event is held on the lush grounds of Glynde Place, an Elizabethan manor home in the South Downs that looks just lovely. Past lineups have featured Lauryn Hill, Jimmy Cliff, Gladys Knight, The Cinematic Orchestra, and Louie Vega. Also, there will be a wellness and yoga section, movie showings in the Jazz Lounge, a kids' area, a pop-up record store from Rough Trade, and the opportunity to swim in the Glynde Pool in the morning.
The lineup for 2023: TBC
For the finest afterparties, don't miss: secret woods bar blue in green.
Lazy Bird Kitchen offers gourmet dining banquets.
Where to stay: The pinnacle of glamping is a sleek, glossy Airstream trailer.
Make the best of the South Downs by trekking; a designated path has even been created just for festival guests.
Walking boots for wandering or just normal festival trekking should be your one item to take.
URL: lovesupremefestival.com
Address: Glynde Place, East Sussex, Love Supreme
23. Buckinghamshire's Bigfoot Festival
From Sunday, June 16, through Monday, June 19, 2023
Best for great DJs and craft beer
In 2021, Bigfoot boasted an even more spectacular lineup of headliners, outdoor activities, and world-class beer over three days in June, delaying its debut on the UK festival circuit from 2020. Maribou State, Franc Moody, and a megamix from Hot Chip were on the schedule, and in between sets festival-goers were invited to chow down on open-fire-roasted food from some of Britain's top chefs, including Rovi's Neil Campbell, Scully's Ramael Scully, Bristol-based BBQ legend Genevieve Taylor, and 10 Greek Street's Cam. Top beer producers Deya, The Kernel Brewery, and Northern Monk also made Happy Mondays and Caribou were the headliners in 2022, and there was also top-notch beer from Signature Brews and Two Tribes, as well as cuisine from Acme Fire Cult (Andrew Clarke & Daniel Watkins), Bone Daddies, Patty & Bun, and many more. Also, there are kid-friendly activities (arts and crafts, dance workshops), a wellness tent with morning yoga and meditation, massages, and restorative therapies, as well as other services.
The lineup for 2023: TBC
Take part in the games and activities including shuffleboard, tree climbing, and lake boating.
There are three primary camping areas: glamping octa pads, boutique bell tents, and pitch-your-own and reserved tents.
Get the exclusive advice of Clove Club sommelier Dominic Smith and visit the temporary wine bar.
If you only bring one thing, make it shorts and t-shirts; after all, it is summer in England.
Internet address: bigfootfestival.co.uk
Address: Middle Claydon, Buckinghamshire MK18 2EX, Claydon Estate, Bigfoot Festival
24. Manchester's Parklife
The weekend of June 10–11, 2023
Ideal for: park celebrations
Parklife, which is held in a big green area, has become a staple festival in the UK. Club sounds, pop, hip-hop, electronic, and alternative music are all mixed together in the music, along with well-known artists and up-and-coming musicians. It quickly sells out due to the big-name performers it attracts; in 2022, the stage was shared by 50 Cent, Chase and Status, Lewis Capaldi, Gorgon City, Bicep, and Megan Thee Stallion.
The lineup for 2023: TBC
Don't miss The Palm House, a tropical hideaway where DJs perform in person yet with plenty of enthusiasm. It even has a roof in case of rain.
Where to Stay: Choose your ideal hotel from our selection of top hotels in Manchester.
Remember that Heaton Park, where the event will be held, is around five miles north of Manchester's city center, so arrange your transportation there well in advance.
If you only bring one thing, make it a pair of vegan Dr. Martens. They are durable but moral, making them ideal for festival wear and tear.
The parklife.uk.com website
Address: Heaton Park, Parklife, Manchester
25. The Mighty Hoopla, Brockwell Park, London
The weekend of June 3–4, 2023
Games and nostalgia are ideal.
In 2022, Steps, Anastacia, and the Sugababes will provide a retro-pop soundtrack for this vibrant, deliciously wacky one-day celebration of inclusion. You may participate in different activities and mini-parties hosted by fun-oriented London club crews, such as Sink The Pink and Guilty Pleasures, in addition to the throwback music.
Years & Years, Jamelia, Kelis, Kelly Rowland, and the class of 2023
Don't miss massaoke, a wildly entertaining mass karaoke singalong.
Where to stay: Choose one of the top hotels in London from our list.
The neighborhood around Brockwell Park offers good restaurants and pubs for more leisurely dining and drinking before/after the event, however, there is food and drink available on-site.
If you only bring one thing, make it Eco Glitter Fun's Bioglitter PURE glitter, which is completely plastic- and biodegradable.
Online resource: mightyhoopla.com
Address: Brockwell Park, Norwood Road, London, Huge Hoopla
26. Brighton's The Great Escape
2023 on May 10, Saturday, and Wednesday
Hearing the newest big thing is the best.
The Great Escape becomes a must-attend event for anybody who enjoys finding new sounds, even though it began as an industry event and still draws many music industry insiders. The Great Escape included early performances by several of the biggest bands of the last few years, including Anna Calvi, Django Django, and King Krule. Being a multi-venue event, you may take advantage of the opportunity to enjoy everything that Brighton has to offer.
Artemas, Grove, Bambie Thug, Deyaz, and Jessica Winter make up the 2023 lineup.
Don't miss: the beachside pop-up mini-festival
Where to stay: For this one, you'll need to find your lodging, although our Brighton travel guide has some great options.
Where to eat: Because you're in a city with excellent vegan cuisine, you should visit one of Brighton's top vegan eateries.
Ask around to learn about covert performances by bigger bands.
If you only bring one thing, make it a spare case to fill with antiques from North Laine's hipster boutiques.
Internet address: greatescapefestival.com
Address: Brighton, East Sussex, The Great Escape
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