10 UK Festivals in 2025 You Can't Afford to Miss
The UK festival scene is vibrant and diverse, offering something for every music lover beyond the well-known giants like Glastonbury. As we look forward to the warmer months, here are ten incredible festivals in 2025 that promise unforgettable experiences, showcasing a variety of genres and atmospheres.
1. 2000 Trees
Where: Cheltenham
When: 9th-12th July 2025
Nestled in the picturesque Cotswolds, 2000 Trees is a celebration of alternative, indie, emo, metal, and punk music. With a lineup featuring Kneecap, Pvris, Taking Back Sunday, and Coheed and Cambria, this festival offers a unique experience with forest stages, yoga sessions, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
2. Outbreak Festival
Where: Manchester / London
When: London 13th May, Manchester 14-15th May 2025
Outbreak Festival is a hardcore, punk, and hip-hop celebration that encourages crowd participation. With acts like Turnstile, Denzel Curry, and Knocked Loose, this festival promises high-energy performances and an inclusive vibe. The London event will take place in Victoria Park, while Manchester will feature a barrier-free experience.
3. Field Day
Where: London
When: 24th May 2025
Field Day is a must for dance music enthusiasts, featuring a mix of live bands and DJ sets. This year, the festival moves to Brockwell Park and boasts a lineup including Peggy Gou, James Blake, and Jungle, making it a perfect way to kick off the summer.
4. The Great Escape
Where: Brighton
When: 14-17th May 2025
Taking place entirely indoors, The Great Escape is the ultimate festival for discovering emerging talent across various genres. With over 450 artists performing in Brighton’s venues, this festival is a hotspot for music industry insiders and fans alike.
5. Boomtown
Where: Winchester
When: 6-10th August 2025
Boomtown is known for its immersive theatre experience, featuring themed districts and a diverse lineup. With acts like The Sex Pistols and Sean Paul, attendees can enjoy a unique blend of music and theatrical performances in a vibrant setting.
6. Slamdunk
Where: Hertfordshire / Leeds
When: 24-25th May 2025
Slamdunk is the go-to festival for pop-punk fans, featuring a lineup of emo heavyweights like The Used and A Day To Remember. Taking place over the May Bank Holiday weekend, this festival promises singalongs and nostalgic vibes.
7. Wide Awake
Where: London
When: 23rd May 2025
Wide Awake is a one-day festival in Brockwell Park, showcasing the best in indie and alternative music. With a lineup that includes Kneecap and Daniel Avery, this festival offers a genre-fluid experience in a relaxed atmosphere.
8. Arctangent
Where: Bristol
When: 13th-16th August 2025
Arctangent is perfect for fans of heavier music, featuring shoegaze, math rock, and progressive metal. Set in the serene Fernhill Farm, this intimate festival focuses on quality performances and a DIY spirit, with Karnivool confirmed as a headliner.
9. Cross The Tracks
Where: London
When: 25th May 2025
Cross The Tracks is a jazz, soul, and hip-hop festival that offers a laid-back vibe. With performances from Michael Kiwanuka and Bilal, this festival is a great way to enjoy live music while relaxing in the city.
10. Boardmasters
Where: Cornwall
When: 6th-10th August 2025
Set against the stunning backdrop of Cornwall’s coastline, Boardmasters combines music with beach activities. With headliners like The Prodigy and a diverse lineup ranging from hip-hop to indie, this festival is perfect for those looking to enjoy music by the sea.
These ten festivals represent just a glimpse of the vibrant UK festival scene in 2025. Whether you’re into indie, punk, dance, or hip-hop, there’s something for everyone. As the festival season approaches, gather your friends and get ready to make unforgettable memories at these incredible events.