Summer 2025 is set to ignite with the UK’s vibrant festival season, offering everything from iconic mega-festivals to boutique gems. Whether you’re chasing thumping beats, indie anthems, or soulful jazz, there’s a festival for every music lover. From Glastonbury’s legendary fields to London’s urban day parties, here’s your guide to the must-visit music festivals across the UK, complete with stellar lineups and unique vibes to make your summer unforgettable.
Glastonbury Festival
June 25–29, Pilton, Somerset
The crown jewel of music festivals, Glastonbury transforms Worthy Farm into a cultural phenomenon. Expect a genre-spanning lineup with The 1975, Charli XCX, and Neil Young headlining, alongside 600+ acts across countless stages. From rock to pop to electronic, this five-day spectacle offers art, activism, and a vibrant community spirit. Tickets are notoriously tough to snag at £378.50, but the experience—complete with mosh pits, comedy, and iconic moments—is priceless. Pack wellies and embrace the magic.
Wilderness
August 7–10, Cornbury Park, Oxfordshire
Blending music, wellness, and gourmet dining, Wilderness is a whimsical escape in Oxfordshire’s rolling hills. Dance to Basement Jaxx, Air, Orbital, Wet Leg, and Supergrass, then unwind with yoga or feast with celebrity chefs. Known for its liberated vibe (think frolicking in the woods), it attracts gurus, creatives, and free spirits. Bring flowing robes and ankle bells, but maybe skip the nudity during dinner. Tickets start at £250.
We Out Here
August 14–17, St Giles Park, Dorset
This Dorset festival, curated by Gilles Peterson, celebrates funk, jazz, soul, and electronic music. Michael Kiwanuka, Pa Salieu, Kokoroko, and Nala Sinephro lead the lineup, with more acts to be announced. Expect a family-friendly atmosphere, thought-provoking talks, and a platform for emerging artists. Pack a book for downtime and revel in the cultured, creative vibe. Tickets are around £200 for the weekend.
Meltdown Festival
June 12–22, Southbank Centre, London
Curated by Little Simz in 2025, this brainy urban festival redefines the concert experience with orchestral and grassroots performances. Catch Little Simz with Chineke! Orchestra, The Streets, Jon Batiste, Mahalia, and Lola Young. Held at the Southbank Centre, it’s perfect for Londoners who prefer brutalism over muddy fields. Bring your cool cousin to mingle with the arty crowd. Tickets vary by event, starting at £20.
Isle of Wight Festival
June 19–22, Seaclose Park, Newport
Steeped in history with past acts like The Doors and Bowie, this island festival blends classic rock with modern pop. Sting, Stereophonics, Justin Timberlake, English Teacher, and Supergrass headline, joined by Faithless and Jess Glynne. Expect Pimm’s, picnics, and a laid-back vibe for Gen X and first-time festival-goers. Weekend camping tickets cost around £289.95. Pack a classic rock T-shirt and Crocs.
Reading and Leeds Festivals
August 21–24, Reading and Leeds
A post-exam favorite, this dual-site festival has evolved from its rock roots to embrace pop and hip-hop. Chappell Roan, Travis Scott, Bring Me the Horizon, and Limp Bizkit headline, with a diverse lineup for teens, tattooed rockers, and beyond. Known for its raw energy, expect mosh pits and epic singalongs. Weekend tickets are £325, offering three days of high-octane music.
Mighty Hoopla
May 31–June 1, Brockwell Park, London
This pop-loving, queer-friendly festival in South London delivers unapologetic fun. Jade, Kesha, Ciara, Kate Nash, and Vengaboys top the bill, joined by DJs and drag queens. Expect glitter, PVC outfits, and a celebratory vibe. Perfect for a one-day dance party, tickets start at £60. Sing your heart out and embrace the sparkle.
Cross The Tracks
May 25, Brockwell Park, London
A soulful one-day festival in South London, Cross The Tracks brings funk, jazz, and soul to Brockwell Park. Michael Kiwanuka, Jordan Rakei, and more headline, with craft beer and street food adding to the vibe. Ideal for a laid-back summer day, tickets are around £50. Pack your hoop earrings and enjoy the grooves.
City Splash
May 26, Brockwell Park, London
Celebrating Caribbean and African musical heritage, this one-day festival features dub, roots, and dancehall. Tarrus Riley, Spice, and The Compozers lead the 2025 lineup, promising high-energy performances. Perfect for community vibes and dancing, tickets start at £45. Bring your friends and soak in the cultural celebration.
Boardmasters
August 6–10, Newquay, Cornwall
Set against Cornwall’s stunning coast, Boardmasters combines music with surf culture. RAYE, Central Cee, Wet Leg, and Nelly Furtado headline, with yoga, reiki, and an eco spa enhancing the experience. Funds support local causes through the Boardmasters Foundation. Weekend tickets start at £259. Pack your swimsuit for beachside vibes.
Parklife
June 14–15, Heaton Park, Manchester
Manchester’s essential festival, Parklife, delivers a high-energy mix of hip-hop, pop, and dance. Charli XCX, 50 Cent, Jorja Smith, Peggy Gou, and Rudimental headline, with smaller stages showcasing up-and-coming talent. Expect a vibrant crowd and non-stop dancing. Weekend passes are around £150. Dress for Brat summer energy.
Wireless Festival
July 11–13, Finsbury Park, London
A haven for R&B, hip-hop, and dancehall fans, Wireless boasts Drake headlining all three days, joined by PARTYNEXTDOOR, Burna Boy, and Vybz Kartel. Its urban music focus and electric atmosphere make it a standout. Weekend passes cost around £300. Bring your crew for a high-energy city festival.
Creamfields
August 21–24, Daresbury, Cheshire
A mecca for electronic music, Creamfields delivers world-class DJs across multiple stages. David Guetta, Sonny Fodera, and ANYMA headline, with a lineup packed with dance heavyweights. Known for its epic production, tickets start at £290 for a weekend camping pass. Prepare for hands-in-the-air bliss.
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