Glastonbury Festival

Glastonbury Festival

What is Glastonbury Festival?

Glastonbury Festival, often referred to simply as “Glastonbury,” is the largest greenfield music and performing arts festival in the world. Held annually in Somerset, England, it features a diverse range of music genres, including rock, pop, electronic, reggae, and folk. The festival is also known for its dance, comedy, theatre, circus, cabaret, and other arts.

Where is it held?

Glastonbury Festival is held at Worthy Farm, located in the small village of Pilton in Somerset, England. The festival site spans over 900 acres and transforms into a vibrant, temporary city with hundreds of performance stages, food vendors, and camping areas.

History of Glastonbury Festival

The first Glastonbury Festival was organized by Michael Eavis in 1970, inspired by the ethos of the hippie movement and the Bath Festival of Blues and Progressive Music. It was originally called the “Pilton Pop, Blues & Folk Festival” and was held on the day after Jimi Hendrix died. The initial event attracted about 1,500 attendees, who each paid £1 for a ticket, which included free milk from the farm.

Over the years, Glastonbury has grown exponentially, both in size and reputation. It became a biennial event in the 1980s, occurring every five years with a “fallow year” to allow the land to recover. By the 1990s, the festival had established itself as a major cultural event, attracting internationally renowned artists and a global audience. Notable performances over the years have included acts like David Bowie, Radiohead, Beyoncé, and Paul McCartney.

Looking to Travel to Glastonbury?

If you’re planning to attend Glastonbury Festival, here are some key details to help you prepare:

Getting There by Air

• Bristol Airport: The closest airport to the festival site is Bristol Airport, located about 25 miles (40 km) away. From Bristol Airport, you can take a shuttle bus to Bristol Temple Meads train station and then a train to Castle Cary. During the festival, shuttle buses run frequently from Castle Cary station to the festival site.
• Heathrow Airport: Located about 115 miles (185 km) from the festival site, Heathrow Airport is another major gateway for international travelers. From Heathrow, you can take the Heathrow Express train to London Paddington, and then a train from Paddington to Castle Cary. Again, shuttle buses are available from Castle Cary to the festival site.
• Other Airports: Gatwick Airport, Luton Airport, and Birmingham Airport are also viable options, although they are farther away. Travel from these airports typically involves a combination of train and bus services to reach the festival.

Accommodation

Glastonbury is predominantly a camping festival, with multiple camping areas offering different facilities. There are also options for glamping, including pre-pitched tents, yurts, and tipis. For those preferring more comfort, nearby towns and villages offer B&Bs, hotels, and other accommodations.

Tickets

Tickets for Glastonbury Festival are highly sought after and typically sell out quickly. They are usually released in two main sales: a general sale and a resale of any returned tickets. Registration is required before purchasing tickets, and it’s advisable to be ready as soon as they go on sale.

Visa Information

Looking to Travel to the UK?

If you are planning to travel to the UK for Glastonbury Festival and you are from a country outside the European Union, you may need a visa. Here’s a general guide to help you:

• Standard Visitor Visa: Most international visitors will need a Standard Visitor Visa. This visa allows you to stay in the UK for up to 6 months. You can apply for this visa online, and it usually requires proof of travel arrangements, accommodation details, and sufficient funds for your stay.
• EU/EEA Nationals: Citizens of the European Union, European Economic Area, and Switzerland do not need a visa to enter the UK for short visits.

Glastonbury Festival is not just a musical event; it’s a unique cultural experience that brings together people from all over the world to celebrate music, art, and community. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned festival-goer, planning your trip well in advance ensures you make the most of this iconic event.