Whether you’re a regular or a first timer, nothing beats the freedom and colourful chaos of spending a few nights under canvas
BEST FOR FAMILIES
Camp Bestival, Dorset
28-31 July, Lulworth Castle
This epic festival has grown over 15 years to become the ultimate playground for kids and grown-ups alike. Organisers Rob and Josie Da Bank know how to throw a party and from the moment you arrive on site you’ll be swept up by the colour and carnival. Stick around for the fireworks on the last night when Rob takes to the decks for an epic DJ finale.
Who’s playing? Grace Jones, Craig David, Mel C, Horrible Histories, Hip Hop Karaoke and The Cuban Brothers.
How much? Adult weekend camping tickets cost £237.60 each from Dorset.campbestival.net.
DOG FRIENDLY
Standon Calling, Hertfordshire
20-23 July, Standon Lordship
If you’re catering for young, old and teens in between, this festival manages to tick every box. It’s dog friendly too! There are different areas to cater for everyone, from a kids activity area, a DJ workshop for teens and dance vibes at the Electric Willows stage, big family favourites at the main stage and comedy and workshops on site too. You can even book a session in the swimming pool. The highlights are the dog show and fancy dress parade, which are fun for everyone.
Who’s playing? Years & Years, Self Esteem, Bloc Party and The Human League.
How much: Adult camping is currently £215 from Standon-calling.com.
CREATIVE KIDS
Deer Shed, North Yorkshire
28-31 July, Baldesby Park
Science meets indie music at this fun-loving festival where kids are just as important as grown-ups. There are science workshops, sports activities, top comedians, a good music line-up and a brilliant atmosphere.
Who’s playing? The Comet Is Coming, Gaz Coombes and Phil Wang.
How much? Adult weekend tickets are currently £190 at Deershedfestival.com.
BEST FOR FOODIES
Big Feastival, Cotswolds
25-27 August, Kingham
Blur bassist Alex James opens the gates to his cheese farm for a weekend of eats and beats. The line-up is outstanding, but the real star act is the food. DJ BBQ’s delicious burgers are well worth the inevitable queues and there are cookalongs and chefs tables from the likes of Nathan Outlaw and Big Zuu. Little ones will enjoy loads of fun with interactive food demos, circus school and a nightly silent disco. Also, forget the gritty Glasto vibes, this has an M&S pop- up in the campsite, so it’s extremely civilised.
Who’s playing? Tom Grennan, Sigrid, Blossoms and Justin Fletcher.
How much? Adult weekend camping starts at £217.95 per person at Thebigfeastival.com.
WELLNESS PARADISE
CarFest, Hampshire
25-27 August, Laverstock Park Farm
Radio legend Chris Evans’ charity event (15 per cent of ticket sales is donated to children’s charities) has everything from celebrity talks and high-octane outdoor adventures to food and retro celebrations. But this year they’re putting wellness at the forefront with top names from the industry such as Kirsty Gallagher, Dr Rangan Chatterjee and menopause expert Dr Louise Newman. The studio will host workshops in laughing therapy and yoga – and a zero-alcohol bar will be serving up some delicious virgin cocktails.
Who’s playing? McFly, Texas, Craig David, Rick Astley, The Bootleg Beatles and The Dolly Parton Experience.
How much? Adult camping tickets start at £209 via Carfest.org.
Words: Louise Bennett