One of the best things about the warm weather is that it also happens to be festival season.
Music festivals are basically a national pastime in Britain, and they’re a great opportunity to see some of the most incredible music acts—maybe even ones you’ve never heard of before but end up loving—all in one place. As it turns out, summer 2025 is shaping up to be absolutely packed with incredible music festival lineups across the UK. Whether you’re into indie, rock, pop or dance, there’s something unforgettable waiting for you. Here are some you may want to try and grab tickets to, if you possibly can.
Glastonbury festival promises another unforgettable experience.
It wouldn’t be a true British summer without mentioning Glastonbury. Held at Worthy Farm in Somerset, this legendary festival continues to be the ultimate pilgrimage for music lovers every June. The 2025 line-up is already rumoured to be one of the best yet, with huge headliners and surprise guests making it a must for anyone who wants to experience live music magic at its finest. The likes of The 1975, Neil Young, and Olivia Rodrigo are headlining, but there are dozens of other incredible acts to check out.
Beyond the main stages, there’s the incredible atmosphere of smaller areas like Shangri-La and The Park, where you can discover emerging acts and soak up the creativity. Tickets may be tough to get, but those lucky enough to attend are guaranteed a weekend full of unforgettable memories, muddy wellies, and pure joy.
Reading and Leeds festivals continue to dominate the August bank holiday.
Reading and Leeds have long been the twin titans of the August bank holiday weekend, and 2025 looks set to be no different. With a tradition of welcoming some of the biggest rock, alternative, and hip-hop artists, these two festivals are essential for anyone who wants a high-energy, no-holds-barred weekend to end the summer on a massive high.
Expect big names (Chappell Roan and Hozier are two of this year’s headliners), big crowds, and a relentless party atmosphere that stretches late into the night. Whether you’re at Reading or Leeds, you’re in for three days of moshing, singing, and making memories with thousands of other festivalgoers just as determined to squeeze every last drop out of summer as you are.
Latitude festival offers a dreamy mix of music and culture.
If you’re after something a little more relaxed but still buzzing with energy, Latitude Festival in Suffolk is a perfect pick. Known for blending music with theatre, poetry, comedy and art, it creates a stunning, vibrant atmosphere that feels different from your typical music festival. Plus, the setting in Henham Park surrounded by lakes and woods gives it a magical vibe you won’t forget.
Families, couples, and groups of friends will find plenty to love at Latitude, whether it’s chilling out by the lake stage or catching massive names on the main stage. 2025’s line-up is rumoured to feature some massive indie favourites and big pop acts (Fatboy Slim, Snow Patrol, Basement Jaxx, and Sting are the headliners), so it’s definitely one to keep on your radar this summer.
Isle of Wight festival brings that classic rock and pop nostalgia.
The Isle of Wight Festival has always carried a certain vintage cool with it, and 2025 is shaping up to lean even further into its legacy. This festival has a way of booking timeless legends alongside newer acts, so you’ll find everything from epic singalong sets to exciting up-and-comers sharing the bill. This year, Justin Timberlake, Sting, and Stereophonics are topping the bill, which is pretty exciting.
Beyond the music, the entire island comes alive with energy during festival weekend, offering an atmosphere that feels both big and intimate at the same time. Ferry over, grab your friends, and prepare for a weekend of sun (hopefully), smiles, and some of the best music moments you’ll treasure all year.
Parklife festival keeps Manchester dancing all weekend long.
If electronic music, hip-hop, and pop are more your vibe, Parklife Festival in Manchester should definitely be on your summer agenda. Set in Heaton Park, it’s a two-day festival that has become one of the hottest tickets in the north, always delivering a top-tier line-up packed with crowd favourites and high-energy performances. Charli XCX, Jorja Smith, and 50 Cent are headlining, which should give you an idea of the vibe.
Expect incredible stage designs, massive dance tents, and non-stop energy from start to finish. Parklife has a younger, vibrant crowd that’s there to party, dance, and make the most of every minute, so if you’re looking for somewhere you can truly let loose, it’s hard to beat this iconic Manchester weekender.
Truck Festival gives you the best of indie in a laid-back setting.
Truck Festival in Oxfordshire might not have the size of Glastonbury or Reading, but it more than makes up for it with heart and atmosphere. It’s often called the “Godfather of small festivals” for good reason—there’s a friendly, welcoming vibe, incredible music, and a sense of being part of something special without feeling lost in massive crowds.
2025 promises a stellar line-up packed with indie favourites, alternative gems, and exciting new artists—Bloc Party, Courteneers, Kasabian, and Nothing But Thieves are headlining. It’s the kind of festival where you can dance in a field all day, grab some great street food, and actually get up close to the bands you love. If you’re after something more intimate but still buzzing, Truck is the one.
Boardmasters brings surf culture and live music together beautifully.
For a festival with a totally different vibe, head down to Cornwall for Boardmasters. It’s the ultimate mix of surf, skate, and incredible live music, all set against the stunning backdrop of Newquay’s beaches. 2025’s edition promises even bigger beach parties, amazing headliners, and the chance to catch some of the world’s best surfers in action. Raye and The Prodigy are the big headliners, but there are tons of great artists playing.
Boardmasters isn’t just about the music; it’s a full lifestyle festival where you can kick back, soak up the sun, and really feel like you’re on a proper summer holiday. Whether you’re watching an epic sunset performance or joining a beach yoga session, it’s the kind of festival that feels like pure freedom.
All Points East offers an epic festival experience right in London.
For those who want a festival without leaving the city, All Points East in Victoria Park, London, is an absolute must. Spread across several days, it offers different line-ups for each day, allowing you to pick and choose the vibe that suits you best — or go for multiple days if you’re feeling bold.
Expect a mix of indie, electronic, alternative, and massive headliners who can easily sell out arenas on their own. This year, we’re getting Raye, The Maccabees, Barry Can’t Swim, and Chase & Status. There’s something special about dancing in the middle of London with a sea of happy faces around you, and All Points East captures that feeling perfectly. It’s city life meets festival buzz, and it’s one you won’t want to miss.
