Forget the beach towels and build sandcastles. The UK summer ignites with vibrant family festivals, where music meets joy and adventure unfurls at every turn. Picture sprawling landscapes echoing with toe-tapping tunes, from indie folk to global beats. Imagine little ones enthralled by storytelling, circus antics, and craft workshops spun from magic. Gourmet street food tempts taste buds, while open-air cinemas and late-night bonfires paint memories under starry skies. From whimsical wonderlands in the Cotswolds to coastal escapes with salty singalongs, these top UK festivals hold the key to unforgettable summer adventures for all ages. Buckle up, little explorers, and let the rhythm guide you!

Here are our top 5 family festivals for 2024.

1. Wychwood Festival 31st May - 2nd June, Cheltenham Racecourse

Adult tickets from £157.50 including booking fees, children under 10 go free

Wychwood Festival enchants families with a vibrant blend of music, activities, and a relaxed atmosphere. It boasts an eclectic music line-up, over 3 stages. A dedicated Children's Literature Festival sparks imaginations, while over 100 workshops range from dance to circus skills. With its family-friendly vibe and commitment to sustainability, Wychwood promises an unforgettable summer escape. 

2. Camp Bestival (Dorset) 25th - 18th July, Lulworth Castle

Adult tickets from £210.00 including booking fees, babies under 2 go free

Camp Bestival transforms Dorset into a wonderland of music, theatre, and circus artistry. Sing along to chart-toppers and family-friendly bands, while little ones get lost in Cbeebies Land and a dedicated Kiddies Kingdom. Craft workshops, storytelling, and a magical forest add to the enchanting atmosphere, making it a joyous summer adventure for all ages.

3. Deershed Festival 26th - 29th July, Baldersby Park

Adult tickets from £177.45 including booking fees, children under 3 go free

Nestled in North Yorkshire, Deer Shed charms families with indie tunes, quirky workshops, and eco-conscious vibes. Groove to electronica, folk gems, and rising stars. Kids frolic in the Big Top and craft zones, while adults savor gourmet bites and revel in open-air cinema. Sustainability shines, making Deer Shed a joyful, mindful escape for all ages.

4. Beautiful Days 16th - 18th August, Escot Park

Adult tickets from £200.00 including booking fees

Park pulsates with the spirit of Beautiful Days. This family-friendly haven blends independent music (Levellers!), world beats, and rising stars. Kids rule in a dedicated wonderland, while workshops and circus magic ignite imaginations. Eco-conscious vibes, real ale bars, and gourmet delights complete the picture. Revel in carefree dancing, community spirit, and a touch of nostalgia – it's Beautiful Days, in every sense.

5. Gone Wild with Bear Grylls 22nd - 25th August, Powderham Castle

Adult tickets from £222.38, babies under 2 go free

Unleash your inner adventurer at Gone Wild with Bear Grylls! This family festival in the UK blends music, wild activities, and survival skills led by the legend himself. Conquer the Commando Course, learn fire-making secrets, and jam to live music under the stars. Embrace nature, push your limits, and create unforgettable memories - in the wild, with Bear!

Other great family festivals include: Camp Bestival Shropshire, Gone Wild Norfolk, Shambala Northamptonshire, Knockengorroch Dumfries and Galloway and Nozstock Hidden Valley, lets all enjoy summer 24.