Camp Bestival is a family-oriented music festival held annually in England. If you’re new to it, this page is a quick way to understand what it’s like — from the music to the kids’ areas and the little details people love.

Festival basics

1. Camp Bestival was first launched in 2008 by DJ Rob da Bank and his wife Josie da Bank.
2. The festival takes place across two sites: the grounds of Lulworth Castle in Dorset, and Weston Park in Staffordshire (Midlands).
3. It’s designed as a family-friendly event, catering to all age groups.
4. The festival aims to provide a diverse range of entertainment for children and adults alike.

Music & stages

5. It features a mix of live music performances from various genres, including pop, rock, indie, and dance.
6. There are multiple stages, including the Main Stage, Big Top, and more, showcasing different artists throughout the event.
7. The festival features non-musical entertainment too, including comedy shows, theatre performances, and circus acts.
8. It has an on-site cinema, screening family-friendly films throughout the event.
9. It has its own radio station, broadcasting live from the festival grounds.
10. It features surprise performances and secret sets from artists not officially announced on the lineup.

Kids & family fun

11. The festival has a dedicated Kids Garden, hosting a wide range of activities and performances for children.
12. It features interactive workshops where kids can learn skills like circus tricks, arts and crafts, and dance.
13. It has a dedicated Science Tent, where kids can engage in interactive experiments and learn about scientific concepts.
14. It features a dedicated toddler area (“Soft Play”), offering a safe and stimulating space for young children.
15. The festival has partnered with the Scouts Association, providing scouting activities for children attending the festival.
16. It offers a dedicated teenage area (“The Den”), with entertainment and activities for older kids and teenagers.
17. The festival hosts a range of interactive games and competitions for attendees to participate in.
18. It provides baby-changing and nursing facilities for parents with infants.
19. It encourages creativity and self-expression, with face painting and arts and crafts activities.

Camping & facilities

20. It provides accessible facilities and services for attendees with disabilities.
21. It has its own dedicated campsite with various accommodation options, including tents, tipis, and campervan pitches.
22. The festival provides family camping areas, allowing families to camp together and create a community atmosphere.
23. It offers a range of glamping options, including luxury bell tents, yurts, and podpads.
24. It has a designated Quiet Camping area for those seeking a more peaceful atmosphere.
25. The festival offers a variety of food and drink options, including street food vendors, gourmet stalls, and family-friendly dining areas.
26. It has an on-site supermarket, making it convenient for attendees to purchase essentials during their stay.
27. The festival provides charging points for electronic devices, helping attendees stay connected.
28. The festival offers accommodation options outside the campsite too, such as nearby hotels and cottages.

Fancy dress & extra bits people love

29. It encourages attendees to dress up and join the annual fancy dress parade.
30. It features a fancy dress parade for kids, letting them show off their imaginative costumes.
31. It features a silent disco, where participants dance to music transmitted through wireless headphones.
32. The festival offers workshops for adults too, including yoga classes, wellness sessions, and craft workshops.
33. It features sports activities, including football, volleyball, and yoga sessions.
34. It features a Ferris wheel and other fairground rides for all ages.
35. It has run pop-up spa options, offering relaxing treatments and massages.
36. The festival has hosted author talks and discussions (including past Guardian-themed literary events).
37. The festival collaborates with local schools and organisations, giving young people opportunities to showcase their talents.
38. The festival collaborates with local charities, raising funds and awareness for important causes.
39. The festival promotes safety and security, implementing measures to ensure a positive experience for all attendees.
40. The festival promotes eco-friendly practices, such as recycling and reducing waste.
41. The festival collaborates with environmental organisations to promote sustainability and conservation.
42. It has used its own festival currency (“Bestival Bucks”), loadable to RFID wristbands for cashless transactions.
43. The festival offers themed areas, such as the Dingly Dell, an enchanting woodland area with storytelling and nature activities.
44. The festival often features a firework display to celebrate the grand finale of the event.
45. It has its own dedicated app, providing schedules, maps, and important updates.
46. It offers merchandise stalls, selling clothing, accessories, and souvenirs.
47. The festival offers a range of bars and lounges, giving adults a place to unwind.
48. At its heart, Camp Bestival celebrates togetherness and aims to create lasting memories for families.

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FAQs

Is Camp Bestival good for families?

Yes — it’s one of the most family-focused festivals in the UK, with big kids areas, workshops, and family-friendly facilities.

Is Camp Bestival good for first-timers?

Yes. It’s welcoming, there’s loads to do beyond the music, and the vibe is generally relaxed compared with many adult-only festivals.

Where is Camp Bestival held?

Traditionally it has been held at Lulworth Castle (Dorset) and also Weston Park (often described as Shropshire/Staffordshire area).

What age is Camp Bestival for?

All ages — you’ll see babies, toddlers, teens and adults. It’s set up so families can do the festival together.