Latest news with #WildernessFestival
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
8 of the best UK summer festivals for families
This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK). Music festivals are doing more than ever to cater to all interests and ages. Younger audiences are often won over purely by the fact that attendance typically involves camping, glamping or pitching up in a caravan — an opportunity to sleep out in the wild. But the UK's best festivals also provide an endless roster of activities, workshops and experiences to help families bond and create lasting memories. From chilled countryside escapes to adrenaline-sparking coastal adventures. Here are the golden tickets for summer 2025. Best for: big music actsSet in the grounds of Lulworth Castle, Dorset's award-winning festival always has a solid line-up, from Tom Jones to the Sugababes and Mr Tumble. Away from the main stages, there's the world's biggest bouncy castle, mud kitchens and activities such as kids' talent shows, bucket-hat sewing camps and sensory gardens. At the Orchestra of Objects, children can even invent their own musical instruments from junk. 31 July to 3 August. From £733 for a family of four camping. Highlight: Dressing down for the world's largest pyjama party on the Saturday evening. Best for: connecting with natureBackdropped by Bannau Brycheiniog (the Brecon Beacons National Park), the campsite at Green Man opens three days before the action starts, giving families the opportunity to enjoy a week-long break in rural Wales. After evenings spent dancing to the likes of Brit Award winners Wet Leg and dance legends Underworld, welcome each new day with a family sunrise yoga session before wandering over to Einstein's Garden for scientific installations, art and wildlife walks. Older kids can try their hand at film-making, crafting and mastering circus skills in the 'Somewhere' zone. 14 to 17 August. From £650 for a family of four camping. Highlight: The closing fireworks display and ritual burning of the Green Man sculpture to symbolise rebirth in the natural world. Best for: sparking creativitySet within the 5,000-acre Cornbury Park in Oxfordshire, Wilderness Festival has a suitably retro music line-up for parents this year, including Basement Jaxx, Supergrass and Orbital. There's also a dedicated Family Field packed with activities to spark the imagination and inspire creativity. Younger ravers can attend the regular storytelling sessions or 'Treemendously Wild' craft workshop to build masterpieces out of natural materials; for older kids, there are slime-making and circus workshops, comic-drawing sessions and poetry classes, plus woodland theatre. And when parents want to attend a gig solo or visit the Lakeside Spa & Sauna, there's a popular nanny service for the little ones. 31 July-3 August; From £610 for a family of four camping. Highlight: Hands-on radio and podcasting tutorials with experienced producers for budding broadcasters. Best for: bonding adventuresExclusively for families, this Kent favourite prides itself on being more like a summer camp than a festival. Over 100 adventurous activities are on offer throughout the ancient woodland setting. For a quieter moment away from the zorbing, raft-building and beekeeping, grown-ups can take advantage of on-site childcare and nip to the adults-only wellness sanctuary. 15 to 18 August. From £520 for a family of four camping. Highlight: Join a patrol — the Kindling version of a house at school — and work with new friends to compete for the Kindling Cup. Best for: inspiring young mindsSheep are a regular sight on the landscaped fields of Deer Shed — set on part of a working farm close to Ripon in North Yorkshire. There's no designated kids' area — the whole event, dedicated to discovery and expanding younger children's minds, is accessible. Children can see where imagination leads through storytelling workshops and learn about creepy-crawlies through song in The Bug Hotel. Kae Tempest is headlining on Saturday this year; for the smallest ravers, there's the blackout tent hosting a toddler 'nightclub'. 25 to 28 July. From £534 for a family of four camping. Highlight: DJing classes, to help aspiring kids on their journey towards festival headlining. Best for: brave Celtic warriors'Celebrating Scotland' is the theme of this three-day event in the grounds of Perthshire's Tullibole Castle. Aimed primarily at children aged 12 and under, Wildhood plays on local folklore and Scottish traditions with tartan workshops, a woodland haggis hunt, even searching for Nessie in the castle moat. Local bands are complemented by pipers, and street food stalls serve up Caledonian classics. 6 to 8 June. From £509 for a family of four camping. Highlight: Competing in a junior version of the Highland Games. Best for: water babiesMaking the most of its Cornish coastal location, just a rock's throw from Padstow, Rock Oyster offers an armada of water-based activities, from surfing lessons to a pirate school. This year's impressive musical line-up includes Rag'n'Bone Man and UB40. Food plays a major role here, too, with celebrity chef masterclasses and a cookery school for kids. 24-27 July. From £418 for a family of four camping. Highlight: A model-making workshop with Aardman, the creative brains behind Wallace and Gromit Best for: funfair fansTaking its title from the Roman name for nearby Chester, this festival is set in fields overlooked by Cholmondeley Castle. It gives older children a glimpse of life 2,000 years ago with archery, axe-throwing and bushcraft sessions. Younger revellers will enjoy the games and shows led by a team from Chester Zoo, covering topics such as the science behind animal poo. Deva Fest is friendly on the wallet, too, with free fairground rides hoovering up the daylight hours, before Happy Mondays and Gloria Gaynor take to the main stage. 8 to 10 August. From £431 for a family of four camping. Highlight: The Grand Cavalcade troupe of performers leading explosive science experiments, madcap storytelling and interactive workshops. Published in the June 2025 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK).To subscribe to National Geographic Traveller (UK) magazine click here. (Available in select countries only).
National Geographic
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- National Geographic
8 of the best UK summer festivals for families
This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK). Music festivals are doing more than ever to cater to all interests and ages. Younger audiences are often won over purely by the fact that attendance typically involves camping, glamping or pitching up in a caravan — an opportunity to sleep out in the wild. But the UK's best festivals also provide an endless roster of activities, workshops and experiences to help families bond and create lasting memories. From chilled countryside escapes to adrenaline-sparking coastal adventures. Here are the golden tickets for summer 2025. 1. Camp Bestival Best for: big music acts Set in the grounds of Lulworth Castle, Dorset's award-winning festival always has a solid line-up, from Tom Jones to the Sugababes and Mr Tumble. Away from the main stages, there's the world's biggest bouncy castle, mud kitchens and activities such as kids' talent shows, bucket-hat sewing camps and sensory gardens. At the Orchestra of Objects, children can even invent their own musical instruments from junk. 31 July to 3 August. From £733 for a family of four camping. Highlight: Dressing down for the world's largest pyjama party on the Saturday evening. 2. Green Man Best for: connecting with nature Backdropped by Bannau Brycheiniog (the Brecon Beacons National Park), the campsite at Green Man opens three days before the action starts, giving families the opportunity to enjoy a week-long break in rural Wales. After evenings spent dancing to the likes of Brit Award winners Wet Leg and dance legends Underworld, welcome each new day with a family sunrise yoga session before wandering over to Einstein's Garden for scientific installations, art and wildlife walks. Older kids can try their hand at film-making, crafting and mastering circus skills in the 'Somewhere' zone. 14 to 17 August. From £650 for a family of four camping. Highlight: The closing fireworks display and ritual burning of the Green Man sculpture to symbolise rebirth in the natural world. At the Wilderness Festival in Oxfordshire, the Family Field is full of games, theatre and workshops for all ages. Photograph by Sarah Louise Bennett 3. Wilderness Festival Best for: sparking creativity Set within the 5,000-acre Cornbury Park in Oxfordshire, Wilderness Festival has a suitably retro music line-up for parents this year, including Basement Jaxx, Supergrass and Orbital. There's also a dedicated Family Field packed with activities to spark the imagination and inspire creativity. Younger ravers can attend the regular storytelling sessions or 'Treemendously Wild' craft workshop to build masterpieces out of natural materials; for older kids, there are slime-making and circus workshops, comic-drawing sessions and poetry classes, plus woodland theatre. And when parents want to attend a gig solo or visit the Lakeside Spa & Sauna, there's a popular nanny service for the little ones. 31 July-3 August; From £610 for a family of four camping. Highlight: Hands-on radio and podcasting tutorials with experienced producers for budding broadcasters. 4. Camp Kindling Best for: bonding adventures Exclusively for families, this Kent favourite prides itself on being more like a summer camp than a festival. Over 100 adventurous activities are on offer throughout the ancient woodland setting. For a quieter moment away from the zorbing, raft-building and beekeeping, grown-ups can take advantage of on-site childcare and nip to the adults-only wellness sanctuary. 15 to 18 August. From £520 for a family of four camping. Highlight: Join a patrol — the Kindling version of a house at school — and work with new friends to compete for the Kindling Cup. At Deer Shed music festival, there's no designated kids' area — the whole event, dedicated to discovery and expanding younger children's minds, is accessible. Photograph by James Drury 5. Deer Shed Best for: inspiring young minds Sheep are a regular sight on the landscaped fields of Deer Shed — set on part of a working farm close to Ripon in North Yorkshire. There's no designated kids' area — the whole event, dedicated to discovery and expanding younger children's minds, is accessible. Children can see where imagination leads through storytelling workshops and learn about creepy-crawlies through song in The Bug Hotel. Kae Tempest is headlining on Saturday this year; for the smallest ravers, there's the blackout tent hosting a toddler 'nightclub'. 25 to 28 July. From £534 for a family of four camping. Highlight: DJing classes, to help aspiring kids on their journey towards festival headlining. 6. Wildhood Festival Best for: brave Celtic warriors 'Celebrating Scotland' is the theme of this three-day event in the grounds of Perthshire's Tullibole Castle. Aimed primarily at children aged 12 and under, Wildhood plays on local folklore and Scottish traditions with tartan workshops, a woodland haggis hunt, even searching for Nessie in the castle moat. Local bands are complemented by pipers, and street food stalls serve up Caledonian classics. 6 to 8 June. From £509 for a family of four camping. Highlight: Competing in a junior version of the Highland Games. Food is the main attraction at Cornwall's Rock Oyster Festival. Photograph by the Rock Oyster Festival, Caitlin Mogridge 7. Rock Oyster Festival Best for: water babies Making the most of its Cornish coastal location, just a rock's throw from Padstow, Rock Oyster offers an armada of water-based activities, from surfing lessons to a pirate school. This year's impressive musical line-up includes Rag'n'Bone Man and UB40. Food plays a major role here, too, with celebrity chef masterclasses and a cookery school for kids. 24-27 July. From £418 for a family of four camping. Highlight: A model-making workshop with Aardman, the creative brains behind Wallace and Gromit 8. Deva Fest Best for: funfair fans Taking its title from the Roman name for nearby Chester, this festival is set in fields overlooked by Cholmondeley Castle. It gives older children a glimpse of life 2,000 years ago with archery, axe-throwing and bushcraft sessions. Younger revellers will enjoy the games and shows led by a team from Chester Zoo, covering topics such as the science behind animal poo. Deva Fest is friendly on the wallet, too, with free fairground rides hoovering up the daylight hours, before Happy Mondays and Gloria Gaynor take to the main stage. 8 to 10 August. From £431 for a family of four camping. Highlight: The Grand Cavalcade troupe of performers leading explosive science experiments, madcap storytelling and interactive workshops. Published in the June 2025 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK). To subscribe to National Geographic Traveller (UK) magazine click here. (Available in select countries only).
Scottish Sun
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Come for Jeremy Clarkson and stay for the rest: the best pubs, attractions and pretty villages in the Cotswolds
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) JEREMEY Clarkson's popular farming show, which is launching a new series on May 23, has made the Cotswolds a go-to destination. And whilst many fans flock to the 'celebrity playground' and spend hours in a queue to see Diddly Squat Farm Shop, there are several picturesque villages and attractions to explore nearby. 7 The Cotswolds are home to a number of different quaint villages Credit: Alamy 7 In Chipping Norton, there is a lido, theatre and cinema Credit: Alamy Just five minutes from the farm is the village of Churchill. A slightly further drive away, are Kingham, Charlbury, Shipton-under-Wychwood, Milton-under-Wychwood and Bledington. Tracy Archer, owner director at StayCotswold, said: "The scenery [of the Cotswolds] is gorgeous - with walks for everyone from those after a gentle weekend stroll to a serious hike. "Our towns and villages are absolute gems too, packed with lovely shops, great pubs, cosy cafés, and restaurants full of artisan treats and local produce." And there are more pubs to explore than just Jeremy's, such as Chequers at Churchill, The Fox at Broadwell, The Plough in Prestbury, The Chequers in Chipping Norton, The Kings Head in Bedington, The Fox at Great Barrington, The Feathered Nest at Nether Westcote. As for things to do, Tracey said: "The Model Village at Bourton is always a hit, and Cotswold Motoring Museum is great for mini petrol heads. "Try Cotswold Distillery for a fascinating tour with a refreshing tipple or relax at Cotswold Country Park and Beach." "Quirky traditions also make this place unique. "Where else can you watch football being played in an actual river like the team local to Bourton-on-the-Water do on a Bank Holiday Monday? "Or people hurling themselves down a hill chasing cheese as happens every second May Bank Holiday at Coopers Hill in Cheltenham." Jeremy Clarkson shares FIRST glimpse inside his new £1M Cotswolds pub The regional calendar is packed with events too , including The Big Feastival, Cheltenham Races, Forest Live at Westonbirt, Wilderness Festival and many events at Blenheim Palace. For food, Tracey claimed the Cotswolds has some of the best spots in the UK. "The Bull at Charlbury, The Wild Rabbit in Kingham, and The Old Butchers in Stow are just a few local favourites. "For something really special, check out Michelin-starred places like The Royal Oak at Whatcote, Lumiere or Le Champignon Sauvage in Cheltenham." One specific village that Tracey says is a must to see, is Chipping Norton. The village is home to a theatre, a lido and Soho Farmhouse. 7 The Cotswolds are also home to a number of great walks Credit: Alamy 7 And some unusual traditions... Credit: Alamy Tracey said: "Chippy theatre is not only a place to watch a fabulous show, it is also an arthouse cinema, gallery and concert hall. "They pride themselves on bringing the local community together to experience art and entertainment, producing and co-producing their own work whilst also touring other venues across the country." As for Chipping Norton's Lido, it features scenic surroundings and offers a great spot to refresh. "If you're fortunate enough to be a member of the Soho House group, don't miss the chance to experience the luxurious Soho Farmhouse," Tracey added. "Set in the tranquil Oxfordshire countryside, it's a haven of relaxation, offering spa treatments, restaurants, and a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life." Nearby, at Larksworld, two best friends - Melinda and Emma - host crafting workshops. Tracey shared: "From willow sculpture to basket weaving, silversmith and scented candle making workshops their studio overlooks a wild meadow so makes for the perfect place to get your craft on." 7 For history lovers, there is even a neolithic stone circle Credit: Alamy For a spot of history, visitors can head to the Great Rollright Stones - a neolithic stone circle with a fascinating history, located on the Oxfordshire and Warwickshire border. "Wander among the ancient stones – the Whispering Knights, the King's Men and the King Stone – and soak in the mystique of this prehistoric site. "Visit in the evening for incredible stargazing under the clear sky," suggested Tracey. The village is also home to Hook Norton Brewery, which is a family business that offer visitors the chance to discover the art of traditional brewing through a tour. Guest get to sample some of the award-winning ales at the brewery, which has been operating since 1849. Alternatively, head to the Farmers Market, which takes place every Wednesday and third Saturday of the month. 7 A local brewery, dating back to 1849, also offers tours Credit: Alamy Tracey revealed: "It's a delightful opportunity to sample and purchase locally sourced produce to stock your holiday cottage cupboards, or take away artisanal goods and handcrafted gifts as a memento of your Cotswold holiday." For a cosy evening experience, head to the Living Room Cinema. "Housed in a historic building, this independent cinema screens a mix of mainstream and indie films, providing a unique cinematic experience," concluded Tracey. StayCotswold offers several properties in the Cotswolds including cottages, barns, shepherds' huts and houses full of history - both near and away from the former Top Gear presenter's farm. The Sun's Kara Godfrey grew up in the Cotswolds and even had a favourite town to visit. Plus, the pretty Cotswolds village tourists often forget about with cosy cottages and hilarious pub locals.
The Irish Sun
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
Come for Jeremy Clarkson and stay for the rest: the best pubs, attractions and pretty villages in the Cotswolds
JEREMEY Clarkson's popular farming show, which is launching a new series on May 23, has made the Cotswolds a go-to destination. And whilst many fans flock to the ' celebrity playground' and spend hours in a queue to see Diddly Squat Farm Shop, there are several 7 The Cotswolds are home to a number of different quaint villages Credit: Alamy 7 In Chipping Norton, there is a lido, theatre and cinema Credit: Alamy Just five minutes from the farm is the village of Churchill. A slightly further drive away, are Kingham, Charlbury, Shipton-under-Wychwood, Milton-under-Wychwood and Bledington. Tracy Archer, owner director at StayCotswold, said: "The scenery [of the Cotswolds] is gorgeous - with walks for everyone from those after a gentle weekend stroll to a serious hike. "Our towns and villages are absolute gems too, packed with lovely shops, great pubs, cosy cafés, and restaurants full of artisan treats and local produce." Read more on the Cotswolds And there are more pubs to explore than just Jeremy's, such as Chequers at Churchill, The Fox at Broadwell, The Plough in Prestbury, The Chequers in Chipping Norton, The Kings Head in Bedington, The Fox at Great Barrington, The Feathered Nest at Nether Westcote. As for things to do, Tracey said: "The Model Village at Bourton is always a hit, and mini petrol heads. "Try Cotswold Distillery for a fascinating tour with a refreshing tipple or relax at Cotswold Country Park and Beach." "Quirky traditions also make this place unique. Most read in News Travel "Where else can you watch football being played in an actual river like the team local to "Or people hurling themselves down a hill chasing cheese as happens every second May Bank Holiday at Coopers Hill in Jeremy Clarkson shares FIRST glimpse inside his new £1M Cotswolds pub The regional calendar is packed with events too , including The Big Feastival, Cheltenham Races, Forest Live at Westonbirt, Wilderness Festival and many events at For food, Tracey claimed the Cotswolds has some of the best spots in the UK. "The Bull at Charlbury, The Wild Rabbit in Kingham, and The Old Butchers in Stow are just a few local favourites. "For something really special, check out Michelin-starred places like The Royal Oak at Whatcote, Lumiere or Le Champignon Sauvage in Cheltenham." One specific village that Tracey says is a must to see, is Chipping Norton. The village is home to a theatre, a lido and Soho Farmhouse. 7 The Cotswolds are also home to a number of great walks Credit: Alamy 7 And some unusual traditions... Credit: Alamy Tracey said: "Chippy theatre is not only a place to watch a fabulous show, it is also an arthouse cinema, gallery and concert hall. "They pride themselves on bringing the local community together to experience art and entertainment, producing and co-producing their own work whilst also touring other venues across the country." As for Chipping Norton's features scenic surroundings and offers a great spot to refresh. "If you're fortunate enough to be a member of the "Set in the tranquil Oxfordshire countryside, it's a haven of relaxation, offering spa treatments, restaurants, and a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life." Nearby, at Larksworld, two best friends - Melinda and Emma - host crafting workshops. Tracey shared: "From willow sculpture to basket weaving, silversmith and scented candle making workshops their studio overlooks a wild meadow so makes for the perfect place to get your craft on." 7 For history lovers, there is even a neolithic stone circle Credit: Alamy For a spot of history , visitors can head to the Great Rollright Stones - a neolithic stone circle with a fascinating history, located on the Oxfordshire and Warwickshire border. "Wander among the ancient stones – the Whispering Knights, the King's Men and the King Stone – and soak in the mystique of this "Visit in the evening for incredible stargazing under the clear sky ," suggested Tracey. The village is also home to Hook Norton Brewery, which is a family business that offer visitors the chance to discover the art of traditional Guest get to sample some of the award-winning ales at the brewery, which has been operating since 1849. Alternatively, head to the Farmers Market, which takes place every Wednesday and third Saturday of the month. 7 A local brewery, dating back to 1849, also offers tours Credit: Alamy Tracey revealed: "It's a delightful opportunity to sample and purchase locally sourced produce to stock your For a cosy evening experience, head to the Living Room Cinema. "Housed in a The Sun's Plus, the 7 All of this is within a close distance of some great places to stay Credit: Alamy
The Independent
14-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Independent
Singer-songwriter Clara Mann is spellbinding in Music Box performance of ‘Doubled Over'
Singer-songwriter Clara Mann almost brought us to tears with her stunning, pared-back Music Box performance. The Franco-British musician, 23, released her debut album Rift in March, and performed two of its songs for Music Box: 'Doubled Over' and 'Driving Home the Long Way'. She's currently on tour with scheduled performances including The Great Escape (14 May) and Wilderness Festival (31 July to 3 August). Stay tuned to Independent TV for more Music Box featuring the latest acts breaking through, available across desktop, mobile and connected TV, as well as our YouTube channel.
