Wychwood Festival
When you hear the word “festival”, you may think of sweaty crowds, wellingtons and the biggest bands on the music scene. You may think of mud, alcohol, UV paint, rain… or anything else which reminds you of your fondest festival memories.
But Wychwood fest really deserves its title of “festival” as it is so much more than just music. Dubbed as Britain’s most popular family festival, there is enough happening that weekend to entertain -------------.
Coming back for its 12th weekend, Wychwood will return to Cheltenham Racecourse from the 3rd-5th June and is going to be more action packed than ever.
What’s on?
Staying true its traditional festival roots, Wychwood has got a huge musical line-up. This year the headline spots have gone to folk-rock band The Waterboys, English rockers 10cc and one of the most famous faces in British comedy, Bill Bailey. There will be over 100 music acts throughout the weekend, so you will also be able to catch the likes of Ms Dynamite, Stereo MC, From The Jam, Idlewide and folk star Kate Rusby.
But like we said, this fest is about so much more than just music. Over the three days there will be over 100 workshops for all ages, including things like yoga, circus classes, late night cabaret, puppet shows, samba, arts and crafts and so much more, Basically, anything you can think of, you’ll probably be able to do at Wychwood.
But that’s not all. There will also be a spoken word festival with everything from hip-hop to comedy to classic poetry, a kids literature festival with a Roahl Dahl party, a real ale festival AND a headphone disco. So many little fests in one big fest!
The arena & camping
What could be a more perfect end to the day than setting up your tent on an idyllic campsite right beneath the Prestbury Hills? Whilst you don’t have to camp at Wychwood, you can purchase a pass with your ticket which means you can sleep just a few mins walk away from the main arena and you won’t miss out on any of the action. The campsite has a shop, lockers for your valuables and hot showers and there’s even space for caravans, campervans and luxury camping options – anyone fancy a weekend in a tipi? If camping isn’t your thing then there is a range of hotels nearby where you will be able to rest your head (and feet).
Being so close to the arena means you will also be close to the range of stalls and food that will be on offer. Be sure to take a trip to the Inspired Earth and Gem Mania stalls, which will be offering the best hippie clothing from India, Nepal and Thailand or all the other arty stalls which fit in with the fests laid-back vibe. As for food, this weekend is all about trying new things – so why not pay a visit to the Portuguese BBQ or Pura Vida Mexican stalls? If you think you’ve had enough adventure already, there will still be plenty of pizza, burgers and standard festival munch.
Tickets and Travel
Getting to Wychwood could not have been made any easier, as the fest has partnered up with Grallo coaches for those who are looking to be dropped off right at the arena’s doorstep. There’s also the option to catch the National Express from a number of locations across the country, or catch a train to Cheltenham Spa. If you fancy driving, the folks at the fest are nice enough to let you park your car for free!
A weekend ticket costs £135 for adults with an extra £25 if you fancy camping for the weekend. Concession tickets are £110 and tickets for teens, children and toddlers cost even less than this. For all the information you could ever need, head to https://twitter.com/wychwoodfe st?lang=en-gb or if you like the sound of what you’ve heard, get your tickets now from here.
By Emily Thursfield