Summer in the UK is a time where vibrant music festivals draw crowds from all over the country, and often overseas. From iconic events to hidden gems, the UK festival scene offers a diverse range of options, and there’s something for everyone.
The renowned Glastonbury Festival in Somerset is a must-visit featuring top artists across multiple genres from Elton John to the Windrush Choir. Other popular festivals include Reading and Leeds Festival, the Isle of Wight Festival, and Bestival. End of the Road, Geronimo and Wynchwood are good for families, and for a more intimate experience, try Boomtown Fair or Green Man Festival. These are just a few examples; there are literally countless others catering to different tastes and age groups, all taking place throughout the summer, across the country.
Making your adventure
Many festivals provide shuttle buses from nearby cities or have designated parking areas. If you prefer public transport, trains or coaches often offer direct routes to festival sites. It’s advisable to plan your journey in advance and check for any disruptions or delays, and if you book to travel with a trainline, remember to book a seat! Your legs will appreciate the break. Carpooling with friends is another great option, reducing both costs and carbon footprint.
Parking etiquette and safety
When it comes to parking at festivals, it’s crucial to follow guidelines to ensure a hassle-free experience. Most festivals have designated parking areas where you can leave your vehicle. Be sure to arrive early as parking spots can fill up quickly. Follow the instructions of the parking attendants and park in designated spaces only. Remember to lock your car and keep valuables out of sight to prevent theft.
One common hazard in festival car parks is mud, especially after rainfall. Heavy foot traffic can turn parking areas into muddy quagmires. Prepare for this by wearing suitable footwear, such as wellies or sturdy boots, to keep your feet dry and prevent slips. Keep a clean pair of shoes in the car, and a carrier bag for soiled shoes to minimise how much mud you take home! If it’s a huge parking field, make sure you write down the coordinates of the row or tie a flag or balloon on the top to help with identification after the gig.
What to pack?
To fully enjoy your festival experience, it’s important to pack several essential items. Start with the basics: a tent, sleeping bag, and camping mat for overnight stays. Don’t forget toiletries, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Wet wipes and dry shampoo are a godsend where showers are limited. And festivals are a great opportunity to use up all those old bottles of hand sanitiser.
Solar-powered mobile phone battery chargers are useful if you can’t bear to be off radar for a few days. Take enough clothes for the duration of the festival, including warm layers for chilly nights, and always take a water-proof coat or poncho. You can never trust the UK weather! Pack a reusable water bottle, especially as single-use plastic is discouraged at many larger events, snacks if you’re on a budget, and cash for food vendors who may not accept card payments.
Have fun in the sun
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day, especially if alcohol is involved. Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen with a high SPF. Seek shade during the hottest hours and take regular breaks to avoid overheating. Explore the festival grounds, discover new artists, and immerse yourself in the atmosphere. Most importantly, be respectful of fellow festival-goers and the environment by cleaning up after yourself. Remember, the mud washes off but the memories stay forever! Happy festivalling!
If you are looking for a way to transport your friends to your festivals this summer, consider minibus hire. Here at CVS Van Hire, we are on hand to provide our vehicles, allowing you to travel on the road in a group, reducing your carbon footprint and allowing you to make memories from the get go. Get in touch with our team by giving us a call on 020 8003 1184 or sending us an email at info@cvsvanhire.co.uk – we will be happy to help.
