Summer of Music: Our Favourite UK Festivals

The UK plays host to some of the best music festivals on the planet; and though Glastonbury has been and gone, there are still plenty of opportunities to get your festival fix over the summer. Keep reading for our recommendations!

Latitude (18 – 21 July)

Latitude is often known as one of the ‘family-friendly’ festivals – but there’s plenty of attractions for all ages! Whilst music fans will bask in the line-up, which this year includes Lana Del Rey, George Ezra, Snow Patrol and more, children will delight in the beautiful surroundings of Suffolk’s Henham Park (including the famous multi-coloured sheep). Latitude also offers theatre, comedy, and outdoor pursuits (like lake swimming), making this festival a cool, cultured affair.

Standon Calling (25 – 28 July)

Standon Calling is not only a stone throw’s away from London in nearby Hertfordshire (making it perfect for a day trip), it’s also a festival with a special history. Believe it or not, Standon started in 2001 as a birthday barbecue for organiser Alex Trenchard.

This unique gathering has a village feel, but the big-name talent on show reflects its magnificent surroundings (it takes place in the grounds of a stately home). In 2019, revellers can expect to watch performances from Rag ‘N’ Bone Man, Wolf Alice, Echo & The Bunnymen, and many more. Come for the music, stay for the delicious barbecue, delightful dog show (seriously) and all-night dancing.

Wilderness Festival (1 – 4 August)

Take a trip into the heart of the Cotswolds with Wilderness, which is famous for its bohemian, chilled-out vibe. Fine food, intellectual speakers, and masked balls combine with fantastic live acts (from Robyn and Groove Armada to Bombay Bicycle Club). There’s even a non-mainstream beauty pageant, Alternative Miss Wilderness, to enjoy.

Wilderness melds cultural delights with some of the UK’s most stunning countryside: one of our favourite festivals and the perfect long-weekend getaway! Don’t forget to check out our partners, StayCotswold, if you’re looking for top-notch accommodation nearby…

Reading/Leeds (23 – 25 August)

Once known as the top pick for rock fans, Reading and Leeds (annual music festivals which take place across the same weekend and share the same line-up) have been lauded in recent years for expanding their horizons. This year, the trend continues, with an eclectic line-up that includes pop, dance, and hip-hop. Rock legends like the Foo Fighters will perform alongside grime artists like Headie One and electropop sensation Billie Eilish across a variety of stages.

Prepare for an altogether rowdier affair, with a young, energetic audience and a simple, crowd-pleasing menu (burgers, chips and pints of beer). Whichever of the two festivals you choose, amazing music and no-frills fun is guaranteed.

South West Four (24 – 25 August)

For the past 12 years, London’s own Clapham Common has been home to South West Four, one of the most exciting – and biggest – electronica festivals in the country. If you’re looking for a place to wave your hands in the air (like you just don’t care), dance until the small hours, and enjoy the finest club anthems, South London is the place to be over the August Bank Holiday.

The perfect alternative to an expensive trip to the clubs of Ibiza, South West Four offers the best in EDM, electro, trance, and other genres. If you’re in the mood for rap or grime, check out Tinie Tempah and Wiley; sing along to Plan B or Sigma; or, if you are looking for a high-concept combination of dance music and visuals, superstar Dutch DJ Martin Garrix’s Anima show is unmissable. Whether you go to both days or simply stop by to see one of your favourite acts, South West Four offers a truly unique, edgy festival experience in the heart of London!