There’s no denying that Glastonbury is A LOT of fun. Thousands of people wouldn’t be having a meltdown at their computer screens when tickets go on sale each year if it wasn’t!
But sometimes it’s nice to be able to enjoy a festival without the huge crowds and endless queues. Not to mention, being able to watch a band without them looking like ants on the horizon!
So if you’re looking for something a little more intimate this summer, or kinder on the bank balance, why not try one of these smaller and lesser known festivals?
2000 Trees
Set in the rolling Cotswold Hills, this intimate 5,000 capacity festival prides itself on showcasing the best new and underground acts from the world of rock and indie. Headlining the festival are a few more established bands to end the night on a high.
Where: Upcote Farm, Withington, Cheltenham
When: 7-9th July 2016
Who’s playing: Twin Atlantic, Refused, Mallory Knox, While She Sleeps, Moose Blood & more!
How much: £95 + booking fee for 3 day weekend with camping
Website: www.twothousandtreesfestival.co.uk
Brownstock
Since launching in 2005 with just 150 guests, Brownstock is now one of the UK’s most popular small festivals, now seeing over 6,000 visitors. The three day event will be taking place at Morris Farm in Chelmsford, with dozens of acts spread out across 6 stages. If dance music is your thing, it’s not one to miss!
Where: Morris Farm, Essex
When: 8-10th July 2016
Who’s playing: Annie Mac, Mark Ronson, Tinie Tempah, Kelis, Netsky & many more!
How much: £89 for weekend with camping
Website: www.brownstock.co.uk
Y-Not Festival
Enjoy some of the best indie and rock acts surrounded by the beautiful landscape of the peak district. Y-Not bill their line up on the basis of getting who they know will put on a great show and their audience will love, from widely known bands, to emerging new talent.
Where: Pikehall, Derbyshire
When: 29-31 July
Who’s playing: Editors, Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, Madness, The Cribs, The Hives, Catfish and the Bottlemen & many more!
How much: £94.50 + booking fee for the weekend with camping
Website: www.ynotfestivals.co.uk
Secret Garden Party
Secret Garden Party is a hippy hedonist’s dream. Nestled away in the woodland, you can find bands, DJ’s and artists tucked into every space possible, whether it be a tree house or an island! There’s so much to do, from mud wrestling and paint fights, to dancing the night away. This year’s theme is ‘The Gardeners Guide to the Galaxy’ so be prepared for a galactic twist.
Where: Mill Hill Field, Cambridgeshire
When: 21st- 24th July
Who’s playing: Air, Caribou, Primal Scream, The Temper Trap, Rae Morris, Swim Deep & more!
How much: £180+ booking fee for the weekend with camping
Website: www.secretgardenparty.com
Kendal Calling
The perfect opportunity to catch some of the best chart-topping artists and up and coming musicians, while taking in the beautiful setting in the Lake District. The festival is great for families and in addition to the music there’s a huge variety of other acts and activities, including comedy, theatre and kids entertainment.
When: 28th – 31st July: Lowther Deer Park, Lake District
When: 28th – 31st July
Who’s playing: Rudimental, The Charlatans, Noel Gallagher and the High Flying Birds, Madness & more!
How much: £135 for the weekend with camping
Website: www.kendalcalling.co.uk
