60 Family Friendly Festivals - Our Top Picks

Looking for a different kind of holiday in 2017? Why not try a festival?

Finding a festival that’s suitable for you and your children to attend can be a challenge, not to mention expensive. So we’ve taken the hard work out of searching and provided 60 of our top picks and best of all they’re all family friendly!

If you’re planning on attending a festival this year then be sure to read out our Festival Checklist

This list is in date order:

Cosmic Puffin

When: 28 – 30 April 2017
Where: Mersea Island Colchester
Kids Activities: With discounted ticket prices for teenagers and those booking in advance, the Cosmic Puffin festival is one of the first major family-friendly festivals on the calendar. With 6 stages hosting a number of popular and up and coming bands the festival is great for music lovers and there is plenty to keep the rest of the family entertained too. From craft stalls and workshops to kids areas and plenty to eat, get your tickets for a great weekend in Mersea Island now
Find out more: http://www.cosmicpuffin.org.uk/

Magical Festivals

When: 19 – 21 May 2017
Where: Alfriston, East Sussex
Kids Activities: As the name suggests, the Faerie Festival is a magical event filled with music, craft and even its own market area where exhibitors will be showcasing their homemade clothing, accessories, artwork and more. Located in Alfriston in East Sussex, it’s a magical weekend event with something for the whole family to get involved in and thoroughly enjoy. With food stalls galore, circus tent, fire shows and a sheltered live music arena you can find something to do on the site from the moment you arrive until the magic starts to fade
Find out more: http://www.magicalfestivals.co.uk/

Wood Festival

When: 19 – 21 May 2017
Where: Braziers Park, Oxfordshire
Kids Activities: Billed as a festival for music and nature, Wood Festival 2017 is celebrating the year of the Hedgehog with fantastic traditional crafts and activities to get involved in as well as listening to a number of great bands and up and coming artists. You can try something new in one of the numerous workshops taking place over the course of the weekend and tuck into some gorgeous food cooked on the site by people passionate about their delicious creations. Get yourself down to Braziers Park in Oxfordshire this May to see what it’s all about
Find out more: http://www.woodfestival.com/

Bearded Theory

When: 25 – 28 May 2017
Where: South Derbyshire
Kids Activities: The Bearded Theory Spring Gathering 2017 takes place at Catton Hall in South Derbyshire over the May Bank Holiday weekend in what has become one of the best family friendly festivals taking place in the UK. In fact, the event picked up the coveted Best Family Festival award in 2016, and it has become one of the most popular independent music events around with this year’s acts including Madness, Skunk Anansie and Seasick Steve. Tickets are available to buy in advance with a limited time discount. For kids not into their music there are a number of rides to have a go on or visit the bearded school to learn some new skills
Find out more: http://www.beardedtheory.co.uk/

Knockengorroch

When: 25 – 28 May 2017
Where: Scottish Highlands
Kids Activities: By the Water of Deugh in the Scottish Highlands you’ll find the perfect setting for one of the most popular family festivals north of the border. Knockengorroch celebrates everything Celtic over four days with plenty for everyone to see and do. The Tigtri children’s tent runs over the weekend with a wealth of exciting, creative and environmental activities for children. Just some of what’s on offer includes lego, nail painting bar, glitter tattoos, face painting, jewellery making, parachute games, Yoga, bubble games, toddler assault course, singing, music-making, stories, paper aeroplane racing, puppet making, river dipping and bushcraft for older children. On Sunday afternoon there’s a children’s procession led by drums and music where the creations of the weekend can be shown off. Knockengorroch’s theme for 2017, our 20th year of festival production, is unicorns, Scotland’s national animal so we’ll be seeing lots of folk dressed as unicorns. Knockengorroch is also planning to break the Guinness world record for the most people wearing unicorn horns at the World Ceilidh festival. Early bird tickets are selling fast so be sure to get your family ticket now!
Find out more: http://www.knockengorroch.org.uk/

Festival on the Moor

When: 26 – 29 May 2017
Where: North York Moors
Kids Activities: The Great North Folk Festival returns with a new name in the wonderful location of Botton Village in the North York Moors Country Park for its 16th year. Early bird tickets are available but selling quickly, so if you’re a fan of folk music and you love the Moors then this is an event that you cannot miss out on this May Bank Holiday weekend. The guest list has already started to be announced with more names to be added between now and the event kicking off, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled. Weekend and day tickets are available for families, adults and children
Find out more: http://www.festivalonthemoor.co.uk/

Elderflower Fields

When: 26 – 29 May 2017
Where: Sussex
Kids Activities: Now entering its sixth year, Elderflower Fields builds upon the award winning formula of a festival designed especially for families. It’s an exciting and unique experience that opens children and their parents’ minds to new opportunities in sport, music, the arts, the environment and food in the great outdoors. Escape to an enchanting Sussex woodland and dip your toes into a wealth of activities, the delights of nature, eclectic music and the best local food and drink around. Elderflower Fields is a wild weekend of discovery and inspiration for adventurous families. Explore six unique zones with their own focus and atmosphere. From Leaping Meadows to Lazy Glades, Elderflower Fields offers children and adults a chance to delve into sports, crafts, music, cooking, science, nature, spoken word and so much more. Indulge in a quiet corner of the festival and visit the Woodland Spa or try some early morning yoga before starting the day’s adventure. Elderflower Fields showcases some of the finest food and drink from across Sussex, and on Sunday all guests are invited to join the famous So Sussex family taster picnic with its legendary chocolate cake and local eats.
Find out more: http://www.elderflowerfields.co.uk/

Geronimo

When: 27 – 29 May 2017
Where: Arley Hall Cheshire
Kids Activities: The largest children’s festival in the UK – Geronimo – goes to Arley Hall this May with all kinds of entertainment to keep the kids happy over the course of this Bank Holiday weekend. This year’s theme is Princesses, Knights and dragons meaning that they can dress up in medieval attire and have a truly magical time in the park or at the campsite should you wish to make a family weekend of it. With great music to listen to, all kinds of fun and games to get involved in, special guest appearances and plenty of food to satisfy your hunger, it’s a magic event that’s not to be missed
Find out more: http://www.geronimofest.com/

Beverley Folk Festival

When: 16 – 18 June 2017
Where: East Riding of Yorkshire
Kids Activities: Beverley Folk Festival returns to Beverley Racecourse this June with another opportunity for music lovers to listen to some of their favourite acts and take in offerings from bands and solo artists who may be starting to make their way in the industry. The festival will once again be having its popular ‘Children’s Den’ Marquee with plenty of free fun for the under 12’s with lots to keep the children occupied and having a good time. There will be creative activities, storytelling, face painting and singing sessions and no doubt a few surprises. For more than 30 years this has been one of the standout folk events in the UK, with families able to gather together for an unforgettable weekend of folk music and more. Weekend and day tickets are available to buy now, and you can take advantage of great discounts if you book in advance. Camping passes are also available for those looking to sleep under the stars
Find out more: http://www.beverleyfestival.com/

Fairy Festival

When: 16 – 18 June 2017
Where: Mount Edgcumbe House and Country Park, Cornwall
Kids Activities: With three days and nights of live music, stalls and even a fairy school where little ones can learn magical things over the course of the weekend; the Fairy Festival is the perfect place to spend a magic weekend. Tickets are available on a daily or weekend basis and camping is also an option, so come along to Mount Edgcumbe House and Country Park in Cornwall between the 16th and 18th June. Nominated as one of the best family festivals, the Fairy Festival is going to be bigger than ever with its own World Record attempt at the largest gathering of fairies
Find out more: http://fairyfestival.co.uk/

Joy Festival

When: 16 – 18 June 2017
Where: Groombridge Place, Tunbridge Wells, Kent
Kids Activities: Joy Festival is an innovative, eclectic and unique festival bringing together the latest trends in creative shopping, gastronomy and lifestyle alongside a range of musical talents. Camp under the stars in a walled garden in a teepee, bell tent, yurt or VW Camper Van; with a mix of pop up shops, boutiques and Night Market encompassing fashion, homewares, interior and garden design, artisan food, art and more to keep you busy. Take a canal boat ride to a wondrous enchanted forest with giant tree swings, a raised board walk with zip wires and rope swings, wooden bridges, a maze, Pirate Ship, teepees and Gypsy caravans. Pick up your tickets from the Joy Festival site today
Find out more: http://joyfestival.co.uk/

Acoustic Festival

When: 2 – 4 June 2017
Where: Mount Uttoxeter Racecourse
Kids Activities: The Acoustic Festival of Britain heads to Uttoxeter Racecourse for 2017 presenting music lovers with the opportunity to listen to some of their famous acoustic tracks and artists over one great weekend. The bands playing at this year’s event are all available on the website, as is more information about a number of the child-friendly workshops such as writing and poetry and the various other attractions to keep you all entertained in a relaxed environment. For parents looking for some evening activities there is the Blues fest and some comedy acts that’ll have you smiling all the way back to your campsite
Find out more: http://www.acousticfestival.co.uk/

Wychwood Festival

When: 2 – 4 June 2017
Where: Cheltenham Racecourse
Kids Activities: Wychwood Festival takes place at Cheltenham Racecourse between the 2nd and 4th June and provides great value for the whole family. With more than 100 bands taking to the stage over the course of the weekend and more than 100 different workshops for the kids to get involved in, Wychwood Festival tickets are on sale now and selling fast. In addition to the music and workshops there is a comedy slot where you can go along and listen to some up and coming acts as well as a real ale festival and tons of great food
Find out more: http://wychwoodfestival.com/

Keswick Mountain Festival

When: 8 – 11 June 2017
Where: Keswick, Lake District
Kids Activities: If you can’t get enough of the great outdoors then Keswick Mountain Festival is a must-visit event. Taking place in the beautiful Lake District, Keswick Mountain Festival is the perfect opportunity for you to listen to some great music, get involved in sporting activities and to even take to the water in activities you’ve always wanted to try but never had the opportunity. Each set of activities has its own ticket price so be sure to visit the website and find the entry format that suits you, where you can also find out more information about some of the acts taking to the stage, the sports going on and the equipment needed to get involved in the outdoor events
Find out more: http://www.keswickmountainfestival.co.uk/

Gate to Southwell Festival

When: 8 – 11 June 2017
Where: Southwell, Nottinghamshire
Kids Activities: Gate to Southwell Festival has developed into one of the most popular events of its kind over the past decade, and this year’s family-friendly events is set to be the biggest and best one yet. Located in the small Nottinghamshire town of Southwell, with easy access to the A1, the central location means that it’s easily accessible for all folk music-loving families and there is plenty to keep the children entertained throughout the weekend event. In addition to the 4-days of music there are a number of workshops and children’s theatre projects enabling them to get creative and to take part in exciting activities as well as dance displays that will wow you all and maybe even inspire others to get into the arts. If that’s not enough for the kids then there is an open top double-decker crammed with excitement – 3D cinema, Xbox game zone, a driving pod, top floor disco and an amazing external spiral slide. All this plus storytelling, photo booths, fancy dress, kites, bubbles, face painting, henna hands, popcorn and candy floss machine!
Find out more: http://southwellfolkfestival.org.uk/

Eden Festival

When: 8 – 11 June 2017
Where: Dumfries and Galloway
Kids Activities: The Eden Festival seeks to involve the whole community of Dumfries and Galloway – and those from wider afield – in a range of events that educate others on the importance of protecting the environment. Taking place over four days in June, this boutique event is energetic and vibrant from start to finish so be sure to bring plenty of energy with you! Tickets can be bought either online or on the gate with prices varying for adults and teenagers, while luxury glamping passes are also available for the weekend so that you can stay on-site in glamorous fashion
Find out more: http://www.edenfestival.co.uk/MAIN/

Solas Festival

When: 23 – 26 June 2017
Where: Perth, Scotland
Kids Activities: Scotland’s biggest midsummer festival returns to Perth this June for another long weekend celebrating music and the arts. Solas Festival offers the opportunity get creative and have as much fun as possible with this year’s theme of “home” providing the blank canvas for you to build your own weekend upon. What does home mean to you, where is home and what always reminds you of home? Just three questions that can be built into your experience at this year’s Solas Festival so get your tickets today and find out more about where you come from and learn all about other cultures and what they see to be “home”
Find out more: http://www.solasfestival.co.uk/

3Foot Festival

When: 27 – 29 June 2017
Where: Chelmsford
Kids Activities: The 3foot People Festival is back in Chelmsford in 2017 for its twelfth year, with all events tailored towards pre-school children making it a fun and creative weekend. There are expected to be more than 14,000 people – large and small – taking to Hylands Estate to try out a wide range of playful activities and ways to entertain the little ones at this unique festival. Events on throughout the weekend include live music, theatre, artts, crafts, sport and general play so pick up your tickets today
Find out more: http://www.chelmsford.gov.uk/3foot

Blissfields

When: 6 – 8 July 2017
Where: Vicarage Farm, Winchester
Kids Activities: When Blissfields first opened back in 2001 there was one handmade stage, a few lights and a sparse campsite but over the past 16 years it has grown into one of the biggest family festivals around. There is a wide range of live music throughout the weekend for you to come along and hear your favourites or to see some bands for the very first time, and with this year’s theme of “bizarre” it’s one that just cannot be missed. There are also some great food vendors on-site offering you some of their mouth-watering creations and a clean campsite for you to sleep out under the stars when you decide to turn in. Get your tickets from the Blissfields website now.
Find out more: http://www.blissfields.co.uk/

Blue Dot Festival

When: 7 – 9 July 2017
Where: Jodrell Bank Observatory, Cheshire
Kids Activities: Described as an intergalactic festival of music, science, arts and culture; Blue Dot festival is being held at Cheshire’s Jodrell Bank Observatory this July. There are a whole host of family friendly entertaining and educational offerings including live science experiments and interactive shows, the Moomins, Star Wars Jedi Training Academy, exhibits and so much more to discover and explore over the course of the weekend. Family festival goers can discover a world of wonder in our intergalactic key family areas which are packed full of cool science shows, hands-on activities, amazing animations, a dazzling array of surprising tricks, science superheroes and weird brain illusions – all designed for the young and young at heart! This year’s musical line-up includes Alt-j, Pixies and Goldfrapp making it one of the biggest events in the North West. Pick up your tickets from the website today
Find out more: http://www.discoverthebluedot.com/

Camper Jam

When: 7 – 9 July 2017
Where: Weston Park, Shropshire
Kids Activities: Camper Jam celebrates its 10th anniversary this year and once again the event will take over Weston Park in Shropshire. Visitors can enjoy its laid-back VW vibe with plenty of activities on offer to entertain children and adults of all ages. With live bands, hundreds of traders, a food village, real ale and cider bars, plenty of children’s activities, a fun fair and a line-up of amazing family entertainment, Camper Jam have pulled out all the stops to ensure that the 10th birthday celebrations are memorable for the whole family. Visit the website for more information or to purchase tickets with early bird discounts going fast!
Find out more: https://www.camperjam.com/

Tewkesbury Medieval Festival

When: 8 – 9 July 2017
Where: Tewkesbury
Kids Activities: This July thousands of re-enactors, entertainers and traders from all over Europe will gather in Tewkesbury for Europe’s largest annual Medieval re-enactment which means that those with a love of history or an interest in learning more about medieval times can come together to witness the events right before them. Tewkesbury Medieval Festival presents a fantastic and unique day out for all the family, with free admission and an opportunity for those still at school perhaps studying history to witness life in the olden days first hand so they can return to class with enhanced knowledge of the subject and a genuine passion for British and European history.
Find out more: http://www.tewkesburymedievalfestival.org/

Buddhafield

When: 12 – 16 July 2017
Where: Taunton, Somerset
Kids Activities: Buddhafield 2017 is a gathering of up to 3,000 “beautiful people” all coming together to build a joyful community over one weekend in July just outside Taunton in Somerset. This year’s theme will be “embracing simplicity” where visitors can just relax in the beautiful and peaceful surroundings and even partake in rituals, songs, dances and yoga. Children are also welcome with a range of similar activities available, with an environmentally friendly campsite available for you to make the most of your weekend
Find out more: http://www.buddhafield.com/

Beat-Herder

When: 14 – 16 July 2017
Where: Ribble Valley
Kids Activities: The Beat-Herder Festival is a plethora of variety and is perfect for any festival goer who loves a wide and unique range of musical acts. Although the festival itself is described as being “rowdy” (especially at night) it is still recommended for families with older children. There is a great selection of activities for kids to enjoy at a well-staffed Kids Field and the super cheap kids tickets make this festival appealing to families each year.
Find out more: http://beatherder.co.uk/

The Godney Gathering

When: 15 July 2017
Where: Glastonbury
Kids Activities: A single day festival that takes place in Glastonbury, The Godney Gathering is what is known as a micro-festival. Packed full of musical talent with seven stages playing host to some big names and up-and-coming artists, The Godney Gathering is also introducing a cabaret and comedy stage in 2017 presenting the chance to see some live acts showcasing their new material. For the kids there is a designated area of the festival which sees a number of acts taking to the stage to provide entertainment plus a circus and numerous workshops to get their creative juices flowing throughout the day
Find out more: http://www.thegodneygathering.com/

Curious Arts Festival

Photo Credit - James Gillham

When: 21 – 23 July 2017
Where: Pylewell Park, Hampshire
Kids Activities: The Curious Arts Festival takes place in Pylewell Park in Hampshire for one amazing summer weekend in July where guests can experience a festival like no other. With novelists, historians, poets and musicians all taking to the stage to present their best and latest materials it’s a quintessentially British event that is not to be missed. Tickets can be bought as a family or individually with some great discounts to be had on early bird purchases so be sure to book yourself a place and get your deckchair and tent ready for a weekend of the arts that the whole family can enjoy
Find out more: http://curiousartsfestival.com/

Truck Festival

When: 21 – 23 July 2017
Where: Oxfordshire
Kids Activities: Coming straight out of the idyllic Oxfordshire countryside, Truck Festival has been bringing guests some of the biggest and best emerging artists since 1998 and it returns this July with a number of big-name headliners over the course of the weekend. Often referred to as “the Godfather of the small festival scene”, Truck Festival is one that is a designated music event made by fans, for fans. With six stages playing host to a wealth of different acts from unsigned local artists to bands including The Vaccines, The Libertines and Nothing But Thieves. Tickets have been selling fast since going on general sale so move quickly!
Find out more: http://www.truckfestival.com/

Festival on the Farm

When: 21 – 23 July 2017
Where: Swindon
Kids Activities: Festival on the Farm is exactly what the name suggests – a festival, taking place on a rural farm just outside Swindon. It’s not one of the largest events but they like it that way and guests keep coming back for more year after year. There are some great bands to listen to, some great beers and ciders to drink and much more for the whole family. Kids can take advantage of a wealth of activities and forms of entertainment including bouncy castles, face painting, rodeo and more so get your tickets now from the event website
Find out more: http://www.festivalonthefarm.co.uk/

Nozstock

When: 21 – 23 July 2017
Where: Herefordshire
Kids Activities: Nozstock The Hidden Valley is a family-run, family friendly festival set on a working farm in stunning rural Herefordshire. The event returns for its 19th year in July 2017 with plenty of great entertainment lined up to make it the best one yet. Father and daughter Noz and Ella curate one of the country’s most charming and beguiling festivals, surrounded by rolling hills and a world away from reality. It’s a weekend of escapism, inspiration and enchantment which encompasses everything from pop, ska, folk, funk, hip-hop, drum and bass, house and a whole lot more. This year’s theme of Keepin’ It Surreal will see the farm transformed into a wondrous world of oddities and mystery, with plenty of inspiration for fancy dressers across all ages.
Find out more: http://nozstock.com/

Stainsby Festival

When: 21 – 23 July 2017
Where: Derbyshire
Kids Activities: Stainsby Festival is a long running but intimate and family-friendly event in a beautiful rural setting, held in large marquees on a greenfield site in the picturesque hamlet of Stainsby in Derbyshire. The festival has everything from folk and world music to crafts stalls, childrens entertainment, music workshops of every kind, a singers competition, storytelling, theatre, poetry, film, philosophy and walkabout events throughout the weekend with camping thrown in. All of this makes it one of the best arts and crafts festivals going on in the UK today so be sure to get your ticket to this year’s event soon!
Find out more: http://www.stainsbyfestival.org.uk/

Standon Calling

When: 27 – 30 July 2017
Where: Hertfordshire
Kids Activities: Standon Calling is unlike other family friendly festivals. An amazing programme of daytime activities and performances for babies to teens in dedicated spaces right in the heart of the festival. This event encourages families to have fun together across the festival, taking in everything Standon Calling has on offer by finding new music you all love, making new friends and exploring the natural beauty of the countryside in rural Hertfordshire. Some of the biggest bands and artists of the past few decades are taking to the stage this July and include Clean Bandit, Editors and many many more. Be sure to book your tickets in advance!
Find out more: http://standon-calling.com/

Y Not Festival

When: 27 – 30 July 2017
Where: Derbyshire
Kids Activities: Y Not Festival is a great opportunity to listen to a wide range of top bands over the course of one British summer weekend. Under 15s are welcome to attend the event but must be accompanied by an adult at all times, but fear not there is plenty to be seeing, doing and listening to from start to finish. This year’s line-up includes Stereophonics, The Vaccines and The Happy Mondays, transforming the venue in the Peak District into its own northern music festival complete with panoramic views of the Derbyshire countryside. Be sure to buy your tickets in advance – and we mean well in advance – as early bird tickets provide huge savings on tickets bought on the gate
Find out more: http://www.ynotfestivals.co.uk/

WOMAD

When: 27 – 30 July 2017
Where: Charlton Park
Kids Activities: Discover some of the latest up-and-coming musicians – and bring under 13s for free – to the WOMAD Festival in Charlton Park this July. The All Singing All Dancing Tent welcomes you with everything from yoga to Sabar dance lessons. Drum away in World Rhythm or visit the arboretum where the World of Wellbeing offers an oasis of treatments, therapies, discussions, workshops and spaces to get away from the bustle of the main arena. For those who fancy adding some luxury to your festival experience there is the WOMAD Spa and the dedicated kids zone World of Children will be bursting with things to see, hear and do; culminating in the Children’s Parade on Sunday
Find out more: http://womad.co.uk/

Camp Bestival

When: 27 – 30 July 2017
Where: Dorset
Kids Activities: From dressing up in this year’s theme, Pop Stars & Rock Stars, getting your glitter on in Art Town and woodworking in Spinney Hollow to awesomely entertaining circus acrobats, wondrous theatre shows and the simple joys of cavorting with your nearest and dearest, the possibilities for creative play are everywhere at Camp Bestival’s tenth anniversary festi-holiday wonderland. There’s plenty of family entertainment with live theatre and shows from School of Rock – The Musical, Mr Tumble, Dick and Dom, Mister Maker and more. For music lovers there’ll be live performances from headliners Madness, Brian Wilson Presents Pet Sounds and Mark Ronson, plus more from Holly Johnson, All Saints, Leftfield playing Leftism, Anne-Marie, Lightning Seeds, Reverend and the Makers, Kate Nash, Louisa Johnson and many more so get your tickets today
Find out more: http://www.campbestival.net/

Cambridge Folk Festival

When: 27 – 30 July 2017
Where: Cambridge
Kids Activities: Having been running for more than 50 years, Cambridge Folk Festival has become one of Europe’s premier folk music events attracting music lovers from all over the continent. Set in the grounds of Cherry Hinton Hall the event attracts more than 14,000 people every year with rising star Jake Bugg headlining this year’s festival with an acoustic set. More than half of the allocation of tickets has already been sold, so if you’re looking for day or weekend tickets – or camping passes should you wish to make a weekend of it with the whole family – you’d better get yours quickly!
Find out more: https://www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk/folk-festival/

Marvellous Festival

When: 29 – 30 July 2017
Where: Wokingham
Kids Activities: Marvellous 2017 is being held in Wokingham on the last weekend in July this year making it the ideal opportunity to get out in the British summer sunshine while it lasts! Within Dintin Pastures Country Park you’ll find a number of great acts performing songs from some of the world’s top bands and artists including the UK Foo Fighters, Coldplace and Fleetwood Bac. If you’re a genuine music-loving family then this is the event for you. Sing along to all your old favourites and treat the kids to what could become the first of many live music gigs. Weekend tickets are available to buy from the website now, so head over to the Marvellous 2017 site to find out more
Find out more: http://www.marvellousfestivals.com/

Starry-Skies Festival

When: 2 – 6 Aug 2017
Where: Monnow Valley, Wales
Kids Activities: The Starry Skies festival was created to cater to parents needing a holiday after, well, a holiday! Rather than ensuring that the kids are entertained leaving parents and guardians to sit around and wait for their activities to finish, Starry Skies organisers have created a wealth of activities – some active, some not so active – for parents and kids alike. Held in the Monnow Valley on the Welsh Borders, Starry Skies is offering everything from nature walks and adventures to live music and theatrical performances for the whole family to enjoy. Visit the website today to pick up your family budget-friendly tickets today
Find out more: http://www.starry-skies.net/

Harlequin Fayre

When: 3 – 6 Aug 2017
Where: East Anglia
Kids Activities: The 2017 Harlequin Fayre returns to East Anglia to utilise a wide range of natural and sustainable resources resulting in an incredible weekend for paying guests, live performers and organisers alike. There are a wide range of live performances from music acts, stage performers and more; plus a variety of skills to the learn in the designated crafts area. Not overlooking the little ones, there is a specialist kids area to ensure that they get the most from the weekend too with plenty of activities and entertainment including educational sessions where they can learn more about sustainability while having fun in the process. The actual location of the event is kept secret until nearer the time, but what we do know is that it is 30 miles west of Norwich…intriguing! Visit the Harlequin Fayre website now to book your tickets to this year’s event. You can even camp or glamp if you’d really like to celebrate the outdoors over the course of the weekend.
Find out more: http://www.harlequinfayre.co.uk/

Wilderness Festival

When: 3 – 6 Aug 2017
Where: Cornbury Park, Oxfordshire
Kids Activities: Wilderness Festival is billed as more of a community gathering than a typical festival, and enables you to feel at one with nature while also taking in the entertainment and celebrating the arts. Now going into its eighth year the event is showcasing a wide range of talents including music acts, live theatrical performances and readings plus a variety of workshops where guests can learn new skills to take away with you. Tickets are on-sale now so get yours and head down to Cornbury Park in Oxfordshire this August
Find out more: https://www.wildernessfestival.com/

Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival

Picture Credit Paul Campbell

When: 3 – 5 Aug 2017
Where: Belladrum Estate, Inverness
Kids Activities: Held on the Belladrum Estate near Inverness, the Tartan Heart Festival returns in 2017 with even more live music and theatre in what is becoming one of the most popular events on the calendar north of the border. First held in 2004, Tartan Heart Festival celebrates the arts in their various forms meaning there’s never a dull moment for those in attendance. Day, 2-day and 3-day tickets are available with children aged 12 and under admitted free of charge. There are also optional camping tickets and add-ons such as access to “posh loos” should you wish to pay a little extra to maximise your weekend
Find out more: http://www.tartanheartfestival.co.uk/

110 Above Festival

When: 4 – 6 Aug 2017
Where: Gopsall Hall Farm, Leicestershire
Kids Activities: Set in the grounds of Gopsall Hall Farm in Leicestershire, the 110 Above festival returns in August for another weekend of fantastic live performances. The opening night, Friday, is headlined by Black Honey and Little Comets, with Sundara Karma headlining the Saturday and Clean Cut Kid the first of two headline sets to be announced on Sunday. There is plenty to keep the whole family entertained throughout the weekend with glamping, great food and top family-friendly bands to listen to. Adult, junior and family weekend tickets are all available for the event and camping options
Find out more: http://110above.com/

Kaya Festival

When: 4 – 7 Aug 2017
Where: Bridgend College, Wales
Kids Activities: Tickets are on sale now for the Kaya Festival 2017, celebrating world music and arts at Bridgend College this August. If you’re a lover of all kinds of music from around the world then this is the event for you and the whole family to attend this summer. Packed full of known and up-and-coming artists, Kay Festival packs a wide range of performances into one long summer weekend. Children under the age of 16 go free with a paying adult making it one of the most family budget-friendly events on the calendar and it’s the ideal opportunity to expose them to music and live performances from around the globe
Find out more: http://kayafestival.com/

Forgotten Fields Festival

When: Cancelled for 2017
Kids Activities: Set in beautiful Eridge Deer Park in Sussex, Forgotten Fields Festival is a must for any family. Although described as “small and intimate” this festival boasts 7 stage areas with activities to keep both young and old entertained including a late night cinema, circus acts, fair ground, toddler play area and kids zumba. There are a wide range of world class cuisine stalls which provide delicious food and drink options that the whole family will enjoy.
*UPDATE* this festival is sadly not going ahead in 2017 however we do recommend you keep it on your radar and follow their Facebook Page as it is a great festival for kids!
Find out more: https://www.facebook.com/welcometothefields/

LeeFest

When: 10 – 12 Aug 2017
Where: Edenbridge
Kids Activities: During the summer of 2006 Lee Denny’s parents left him alone while they went on holiday with one simple rule: do not have a house party. Lee thought a solution would be to have a festival in the garden and from that moment LeeFest was born. More than ten years on, LeeFest work to ensure the whole festival site is family-friendly, as well as having designated areas for more focused family fun. The organisers understand that having kids shouldn’t mean you can’t be a part of the grown up festivities so they’ve filled The Neverland with all kinds of fun stuff that will have you and your kids partying together, and they make sure the whole site is family friendly in what is a spectacular blend of music, party and the arts
Find out more: https://www.leefest.org/

Boomtown Fair

When: 10 – 13 Aug 2017
Where: Matterley Estate, Winchester
Kids Activities: Boomtown Fair has been designed with families in mind with three of the four main areas dedicated to providing family-friendly events and activities. Kidztown district has a wealth of events, activities, workshops and entertainment especially for the little ones with a wide range of music acts on the main stages across the various venues – or districts – at the Matterley Estate near Winchester. Full weekend tickets are available to buy online now so head over to the Boomtown Fair website now to pick up yours, with free entry for all children aged 12 and under
Find out more: http://www.boomtownfair.co.uk/

Lake Fest

When: 10 – 14 Aug 2017
Where: Eastnor Castle, Herefordshire
Kids Activities: Lake Fest describe their events as being about more than the music, and with an ever-expanding line-up of top artists and forms of entertainment for the whole family it’s easy to understand what they mean. Lake Fest 2017 is likely to be bigger than ever before and the Hawaiian theme for the event will ensure that there is a fun, relaxed feel to proceedings throughout the weekend. On stage the music is provided by artists from almost every niche with headliners including Feeder and The Charlatans. The event at Eastnor Castle in Herefordshire is selling tickets now for the weekend, including camping passes should you wish to turn it into an all-weekend family activity.
Find out more: http://lakefest.co.uk/

KingStock

When: 11 – 13 Aug 2017
Where: Moggerhanger Park, Bedfordshire
Kids Activities: KingsStock 2017 is back at Moggerhanger Park this August, transforming the 33 acres of countryside and woodland into a live music venue for one amazing summer weekend. Families are permitted to camp on the site for the duration of the festival from 3pm on the Friday enabling you to see every second of the action with some big names taking to the stage to perform from 7pm, and 10am onwards over the weekend. Fancy dress is encouraged but not essential and there is no set theme, so dress how you wish and make the most of this fantastic festival. Tickets are available at discounted rates when bought in advance so be sure to visit the event website before going to pick up your day or weekend passes along with your camping tickets at lower prices
Find out more: http://www.kingsstock.co.uk/

Beautiful Days

When: 18 – 20 Aug 2017
Where: Escot Park, Devon
Kids Activities: With space for 17,500 music lovers, Beautiful Days enters its 15th year in 2017 and is laying on six stages-worth of live music to celebrate with acts including Paul Heaton & Jacqui Abbott, Levellers and Frank Turner headlining the event. If that’s not enough this family friendly event is also putting on a children’s area within the site suitable for toddlers to teenagers so that they can play, learn, get creative with various activities and workshops or to listen to some live comedy – whatever entertainment you’re looking for, you’ll find it at Beautiful Days 2017 in Escot Park in Devon. Tickets for the event in 2016 sold out within four months of going on sale so be sure to purchase yours well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Find out more: http://www.beautifuldays.org/

Doune The Rabbit Hole

When: 18 – 20 Aug 2017
Where: Cardross Estate, Stirlingshire
Kids Activities: Doune The Rabbit Hole are hosting an array of family-friendly activities at their 2017 festival. As one of Scotland’s most intimate music and arts festivals, the event has revealed a whole host of children’s activities to sit alongside its musical line-up for this year. Taking place at Stirlingshire’s idyllic Cardross Estate from August 18th-20th, this small music and arts extravaganza offers people of all ages, from babies to golden retirees, an eclectic mix of local and international music, crafts and a family-friendly culture that makes Doune The Rabbit Hole a unique music event in Scotland. With an event capacity of only 3000, Doune The Rabbit Hole organisers pride themselves on being one of the country’s smallest festivals, giving the event a uniquely intimate and friendly atmosphere, so get your tickets while you can
Find out more: http://dounetherabbithole.co.uk/

Just So Festival

When: 18 – 20 Aug 2017
Where: Rode Hall, Cheshire
Kids Activities: Just So Festival aims to help families step away from their day-to-day lives of work, household chores and homework and into a world filled with entertainment and activities. Rode Hall in Cheshire plays host to the event where families can experience world class literature, music, theatre, dance, comedy and creative activities and outdoor pursuits together. Think workplace team building but without the workplace and the awkward guy from accounts! Learn more about the great outdoors and the wildlife, find out more about your families’ interests – and your own – and experience some great food from local vendors across the weekend. Book your entry and camping tickets on the Just So Festival 2017 website now.
Find out more: http://www.justsofestival.org.uk/

Gloworm Festival

When: 19 – 20 Aug 2017
Where: Clumber Park, Nottinghamshire
Kids Activities: Created especially for families, Gloworm Festival comes back to Clumber Park in Nottinghamshire this August in what is a genuine family-friendly festival. Inspire your little ones to take up a new activity, learn and have fun all at the same time over the course of this two-day event that even has its own petting zoo where they can meet some of their favourite animals. Guest appearances come from kids TV stars including Postman Pat and the Chuckle Brothers, while there are plenty of live music sets from tribute acts covering songs the whole family can sing along to. Book your tickets online today and be prepared for a weekend filled with fun and frolics!
Find out more: http://glowormfestival.co.uk/

Purbeck Valley Folk Festival

When: 24 – 27 Aug 2017
Where: Purbeck Valley Farm, Wareham
Kids Activities: Set on a farm on the beautiful Jurassic Coastline, Purbeck Valley Folk Festival is described as an event that’s loved by everyone because there’s loads for kids to do, loads for parents and loads for the old folkies too! With three days of workshops, live music, poetry, crafts, and more you’re guaranteed to find something that appeals enabling you to leave the farm at the end of the weekend with a load of new skills and some handmade creations! There is also a dedicated kids area on the site where they can try their hand at some child-friendly crafts and activities making it an educational as well as an entertaining family weekend on the farm
Find out more: http://www.purbeckvalleyfolkfestival.co.uk/

The Big Feastival

When: 25 – 27 Aug 2017
Where: Cotswolds
Kids Activities: Alex James is known for being a member of the popular 90s band Blur, but very few know that he also hosts his own festival – or should we say, Feastival. Celebrate everything that’s great about British food and drink, and listen to some great music, over the course of one late summer’s weekend – what could be better? Try out street food from local and national vendors, and listen to music from the likes of Olly Murs, Louisa Johnson, Madness, Dodgy and De La Soul; there really is something for everybody at Feastival 2017 which is being held on Alex’s farm in the Cotswolds. Pick up your tickets today from the event website
Find out more: http://thebigfeastival.com/

Upton Upon Severn Sunshine Music Festival

When: 25 – 27 Aug 2017
Where: Upton Upon Severn, Worcestershire
Kids Activities: The Sunshine Music Festival prides itself on being an event for every generation and that means providing something for all of the family. Specifically aimed for kids, who go free to the festival if they’re under 12, they have a huge inflatable village back for 2017 and are also introducing a free big top circus, with a full show for 2017, as well as more free kids workshops, karaoke and disco tent. This year’s main music acts include something for the adults too with The Wurzels, Blue, Mim Wilde and many more performing over the course of the weekend
Find out more: http://www.uptonfestival.co.uk/

Shrewsbury Folk Festival

When: 25 – 28 Aug 2017
Where: Shrewsbury
Kids Activities: Shrewsbury Folk Festival is about more than just music. Organisers promise a relaxed atmosphere with time for you to explore the festival site with its four stages, dance tent and there are even a number of specialist venues for our children’s and youth festivals. There are shops, caterers, bars, a craft fair, free buses into Shrewsbury town centre should you wish to get off site and explore the local area for a while and a great campsite with a fun, family atmosphere. Tickets for this year’s event are on sale right now with free entry for all children aged 4 and under.
Find out more: http://shrewsburyfolkfestival.co.uk/

England’s Medieval Festival

When: 26 – 28 Aug 2017
Where: Herstmonceux Castle, East Sussex
Kids Activities: England’s Medieval Festival provides the perfect opportunity for the whole family to travel back in time to learn more about the England of the past. This year’s festival provides a number of thrilling shows including jousting and battles in front of a real castle, archery and jousting, workshops and traditional crafts in the living history village to discover what life was really like and an amazing moonlit cinema for the evening’s entertainment for those camping. Tickets are available to buy right now, so get yourselves down to Herstmonceux Castle in East Sussex for a festival unlike any other
Find out more: http://www.englandsmedievalfestival.com/

The Good Life Experience

Photo Credit - Vic Phillips

When: 15 – 17 Sep 2017
Where: Gladstones’ Farm, North Wales
Kids Activities: Book your tickets today for a weekend of fun and discovery at the 2017 Good Life Experience. This year’s third edition of the festival will take place on the Gladstones’ Farm just inside North Wales with plenty of outdoor, activities to get involved in including axe throwing, archery, tree climbing, leather-working, knot tying, bushcraft, proper barbers, great food and drink, dancing and loads more for the whole family. Come on down and listen to live music and book readings or take part in a range of activities and workshops to experience a weekend of the good life
Find out more: https://www.thegoodlifeexperience.co.uk/

Supernormal Festival

When: TBC
Where: Braziers Park, Oxfordshire
Kids Activities: Braziers Park in Oxfordshire is the venue for this year’s Supernormal Festival. The events is a three-day spectacular celebrating the arts and live music offering up and coming performers the chance to showcase their own talents individually or as part of a collaboration in front of a live audience. With tickets limited to just 1,500 it’s an intimate festival filled with fun-loving families arriving with open minds and leaving with more ideas about the wider world we live in. An eco-friendly festival, Supernormal started back in 2010 and is continuing to grow in popularity.
Find out more: https://www.supernormalfestival.co.uk/

OnBlackHeath

When: TBC
Where: South East London
Kids Activities: OnBlackheath delivers two days of music, food, and family entertainment within a communal, creative atmosphere that offers an escape from the working week and daily home lives. OnBlackheath was formed after a few beers whilst listening to music in a field back in 2008 with organisers having a shared goal to stage something on their doorstep to celebrate the area and to showcase some of the best local and international artists, offering food they could shout about, and an engaging and fun experience for our younger audience. It is a weekend for the discerning music and food lover, of bizarre and wonderful fringe entertainment, and with a safe and nourishing children’s area so be sure to book your tickets for this year’s event early
Find out more: http://www.onblackheath.com/

Sport Beat Fest

When: TBC
Where: Gloucestershire
Kids Activities: Since 2013 Sport Beat Fest has been Gloucestershire’s premier sports and music festival. Quite an unusual blend for a festival, sport and music work hand-in-hand to provide a family friendly event that appeals to all ages. The organisers come from elite sporting backgrounds so they know exactly how to go about appealing to keen sportsmen and women both young and old, while the music acts are among the most popular in the country. Under 16s are permitted on-site but must be accompanied by a paying adult so if you love sport and you love music, get yourselves down to this year’s event
Find out more: http://www.sportbeatfest.com

60 Family Friendly Festivals in the UK