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Best festivals to see this Summer
When the sun comes out, there's nothing quite like dancing in a field to your favourite music with a cold drink in hand. UK music festivals are a rite of passage, and this year’s summer festivals promise unforgettable experiences for music lovers of all ages. Whether you're into indie, pop, rock, or dance, there's something special waiting at festivals in summer 2026.
Best UK Music Festivals to Make Your Summer Unforgettable
Looking for the best UK music festivals to make your summer truly unforgettable? From legendary names to family-friendly wonders, this year’s lineup is packed with unmissable moments. Whether you're after beach vibes, city beats, or countryside escapes, many festivals are even set near Away Resorts holiday parks, making them perfect for a weekend break or a full summer getaway. Here are the top summer festivals UK has to offer.
One of the UK’s most iconic festivals, the Isle of Wight Festival blends heritage with big-name headliners. Taking place in a scenic spot near Newport, this event continues to deliver across genres. With family zones, fairground rides, and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s a great introduction to the UK summer festivals scene. Make it a full weekend by staying at The Lakes Rookley, just a short drive from the festival.
Dates: 18–21 June 2026
Acts: Lewis Capaldi, Calvin Harris, The Cure, The Kooks
Set on the Cornish coast, Boardmasters is where surf meets sound. This festival brings together music lovers and beachgoers for five days of seaside serenity and high-energy performances. It’s a standout among festivals UK thanks to its unbeatable cliff-top views and surf culture. You can stay close to the vibes at Newperran, just down the road from all the Boardmasters fun.
Dates: 5–9 August 2026
Acts:Â Fatboy Slim, Lily Allan, Kasabian, Tinie Tempah
Camp Bestival in Dorset is great for families, combining pop acts with theatre, wellness, and kids' entertainment. You’ll find circus shows, woodland crafts, and live music that appeals to all ages—making it one of the most family-friendly festivals this summer. Make it a proper family getaway with a stay at Swanage Coastal Park, only a short drive from the festival.
Dates: 30 July – 2 August 2026
Acts: Bastille, Fatboy Slim, De La Soul, Billy Ocean
Held on Southsea Common with views of the sea, Victorious Festival is perfect for those who want the full music experience without venturing too far from town. It offers something for everyone, including a strong indie and alternative lineup, street food, and a dedicated kids' area. For an comfy place to stay nearby, check out Mill Rythe just a short hop from the festival
Dates: 28–30 August 2026
Acts: Richard Ashcroft, The Black Keys, Kasabian, Scissor Sisters
Reading Festival remains a rite of passage for teens and twenty-somethings, offering some of the hottest names in rock, rap, and alternative. While it’s more suited for older audiences, the energy is unmatched. Reading, along with its northern counterpart Leeds, anchors the festivals in summer calendar.
Dates: 27–30 August 2026
Acts: Charli XCX, Chase & Status, Dave, Florence + The Machine
Set in Glasgow Green, TRNSMT is Scotland’s answer to Reading and Leeds. With a strong indie and alt-rock focus, it’s a lively city-based event that brings the party to urban music fans. A bit more polished and mature, it caters to an audience that loves music without the mud.
Dates: 19–21 June 2026
Acts: Richard Ashcroft, Wolf Alice, Nile Rodgers & Chic, Dylan John Thomas
Nestled in the beautiful Brecon Beacons, Green Man offers an intimate atmosphere full of folk, electronic, and experimental music. With lush scenery and eco-conscious vibes, it’s one of the most unique UK music festivals. Families are welcome, and the festival offers a separate area packed with children’s activities and nature workshops.
Dates: 20–23 August 2026
Acts: Wolf Alice, Four Tet, Sparks, Cat Power
Latitude brings together music, theatre, comedy, and dance in the Suffolk countryside. Known for its artsy feel and lakeside location, it’s one of the most well-rounded festivals UK has to offer. With a designated kids’ area and family camping, it’s a perfect pick for culture-loving parents.
Dates: 23-26 July 2026
Acts: Teddy Swims, Lewis Capaldi, David Byrne, Tom Odell
From chart-topping pop acts to top chefs and children's TV characters, this festival blends the best of a summer fair with the fun of a live music event. With games, tractor rides, and family camping zones, it's ideal for parents looking to introduce their kids to the UK summer festivals scene. For a nearby place to stay, Sandy Balls Holiday Village is the closest Away Resorts holiday park, around a 30 minutre drive away.
Dates: 28–30 August 2026
Acts: Basement Jaxx, The Streets, Bastille, Rudim3ntal
From chart-topping pop stars and global rap icons to rising indie favourites and surprise guest appearances, BBC Radio 1 Big Weekend is one of the UK’s biggest free-ticket music festivals, bringing together thousands of fans for a weekend of live performances and broadcast moments.
Dates: 22–24 June 2026
Acts: Olivia Dean, Zara Larsson, Niall HoranÂ
Make This Summer One to Remember
Whether you're dancing by the sea at Boardmasters or soaking up art and indie tunes at Latitude, these UK music festivals offer something for every type of festivalgoer. From family fun at Camp Bestival to the world-famous Glastonbury, the festivals this summer are more exciting than ever.
Plan ahead, grab your tickets, and get ready for a season of unforgettable sounds, sunshine, and summer vibes.
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Hannah Evans
As Holidays Marketing Manager for Away Resorts, no two days are ever quite the same for Hannah. She’s happiest spending time with her dog or relaxing in a sunny pub garden—ideally both at once—often while visiting one of the beautiful Away Resorts locations. Her top picks? Scenic walks through the New Forest at Sandy Balls, enjoying Padstow pasties near Retallack, or heading out on a hike from Barmouth Bay.
Follow Hannah Evans for thoughtful takes, fresh ideas, and inspiring reads.