The Best Vanlife Festivals UK – 2023-24

The Best Vanlife Festivals UK – 2023-24

Buy or Sell Campers

Buy or Sell Campers

13 June 2023

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Welcome to the world of vanlife festivals UK! If you’re a fan of nomadic adventures and the freedom of the open road, combined with the vibrant atmosphere of music, arts, and outdoor activities, then vanlife festivals are tailor-made for you.

In this article, we’ll dive into the exciting world of vanlife festivals UK, exploring some of the most captivating events that celebrate the spirit of vanlife culture. From music festivals to immersive art experiences, we’ll cover a wide range of 2023-24 festivals that are sure to pique your interest.

So, buckle up, get ready to hit the road, and let’s discover the best vanlife festivals the UK has to offer!

Table of Contents

 

🕺 Vanlife Festivals UK 2033-24

🎧 Tropical Pressure Festival: A Global Music Expedition

🪄 Starry Skies: Where Magic Meets Adventure

🍀 The Green Gathering: Sustainability and Community Spirit

🍺 Outcider Festival: The Perfect Blend of Cider and Music

🎵 Purbeck Valley Folk Festival: A Serenade in the Countryside

👩‍🎨 Shambala: A Journey into Whimsy and Wonder

🎨 Solfest: A Melting Pot of Music and Arts

🏞️ Elderflower Fields: Where Nature and Music Unite

🚐 Camp Quirky: Embracing Eccentricity in Vanlife

🎤 Bearded Theory: A Carnival of Music and Merriment

 

🕺 Other Vanlife Festivals UK

🎊 Festivals for Every Musical Taste

🖼️ A Feast for the Senses: Festivals of Art and Theatre

🎭 Embracing the Visual Arts: Festivals of Installations and Exhibits

🥎 Adventure and Outdoor Thrills: Festivals of Outdoor Activities and Sports

 

📕 Key Takeaways

FAQs About Vanlife Festivals UK

2023 Tropical Pressure Festival

🎧 Tropical Pressure Festival: A Global Music Expedition

14th – 17th July 2023

Tropical Pressure Festival invites you on a musical journey that spans continents. Set in the beautiful Cornish countryside, this vibrant festival showcases the rich diversity of global music, blending rhythms and melodies from different cultures.

From Afrobeat to Latin, Caribbean to African, Tropical Pressure Festival is a melting pot of world sounds that will transport you to distant lands. Let the infectious beats and infectious smiles surround you as you dance, connect with fellow vanlifers, and embrace the spirit of unity through music.

Starry Skies Festival

🪄 Starry Skies: Where Magic Meets Adventure


27th – 30th July 2023

 

Starry Skies is a vanlife festival designed exclusively for families seeking unforgettable outdoor adventures. Nestled in the picturesque Herefordshire countryside, this festival combines the joy of camping with a wide array of activities tailored for children and adults alike.

 

From storytelling around the campfire to nature walks, treasure hunts, and arts and crafts workshops, Starry Skies is a haven for families to bond, explore, and create lasting memories together.

The Green Gathering Vanlife Celebration

🍀 The Green Gathering: A Sustainable Vanlife Celebration


3rd – 6th August 2023

 

At The Green Gathering, the essence of vanlife intertwines with a strong focus on sustainability and eco-conscious living. This festival offers a platform for like-minded individuals to come together and explore alternative ways of living in harmony with nature.

 

From thought-provoking talks and workshops on renewable energy to organic food markets and permaculture demonstrations, The Green Gathering provides a holistic experience that resonates with the ethos of vanlife enthusiasts who prioritize environmental responsibility.

Outcider Festival

🍺 Outcider Festival: The Perfect Blend of Cider and Music


3rd – 6th August 2023

 

Combining the quintessential flavors of West Country cider with a stellar lineup of live music, Outcider Festival is a paradise for both cider aficionados and music enthusiasts. Nestled in the heart of Somerset, this festival brings together the best of both worlds.

 

Sip on a refreshing cider while enjoying performances by talented artists across various genres. The laid-back atmosphere and friendly community vibe make Outcider Festival a must-visit for vanlifers looking to savor the essence of British cider culture while tapping their feet to great music.

Purbeck Valley Folk Festival

🎵 Purbeck Valley Folk Festival: A Melody in the Countryside


17th – 20th August 2023

 

If you have a penchant for folk music and picturesque landscapes, Purbeck Valley Folk Festival will enchant your senses. Set against the backdrop of the stunning Purbeck Hills in Dorset, this festival creates an intimate and laid-back atmosphere for both music lovers and vanlife enthusiasts.

 

With a lineup featuring renowned folk artists and emerging talents, Purbeck Valley Folk Festival offers a unique blend of toe-tapping melodies and the tranquil beauty of the English countryside.

Shambala: A Kaleidoscope of Creativity

👩‍🎨 Shambala: A Kaleidoscope of Creativity


24th – 27th August 2023

 

Shambala is not just a festival; it’s an immersive experience that ignites the imagination. Held in a secret location in the heart of Northamptonshire, Shambala takes vanlife festivals to a whole new level.

 

With its diverse range of music, interactive art installations, and theatrical performances, Shambala is a vibrant playground for the creatively inclined. As you roam through the festival grounds, you’ll encounter a whimsical world where every nook and cranny is brimming with surprises.

Solfest: A Melting Pot of Music and Arts

🎨 Solfest: A Melting Pot of Music and Arts


24th – 27th August 2023

 

Located in the picturesque Cumbrian countryside, Solfest is a celebration of independent music and grassroots creativity. This family-friendly festival offers a diverse lineup of musicians, ranging from established acts to emerging talents, covering a wide range of genres.

 

But Solfest is not just about music; it’s a fusion of arts, culture, and community spirit. Explore captivating art installations, immerse yourself in workshops and spoken-word performances, and let your imagination soar amidst the breathtaking natural surroundings.

Elderflower Fields: Where Nature Meets Music

🏞️Elderflower Fields: Where Nature Meets Music


24th – 27th May 2024

 

Elderflower Fields is a unique vanlife festival nestled in the beautiful countryside of East Sussex. This family-friendly event brings together the joy of music, outdoor activities, and a strong emphasis on nature and sustainability.

 

As you park your van amidst the lush greenery, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world of adventure. From live music performances and storytelling sessions to outdoor games and workshops, Elderflower Fields offers an enchanting experience for vanlifers of all ages.

Camp Quirky: Celebrating Quirkiness on Wheels

🚐 Camp Quirky: Celebrating Quirkiness on Wheels


2024 date TBC

 

Camp Quirky is a festival that celebrates the eccentric and unconventional side of vanlife. Held in various locations across the UK, this festival is a vibrant gathering of van enthusiasts who showcase their unique, custom-built vehicles.

 

Attendees can participate in workshops to learn van conversion techniques, exchange ideas with fellow vanlifers, and revel in the spirit of creativity that flows through this event. If you’re looking for inspiration to transform your own van into a quirky masterpiece, Camp Quirky is the place to be.

Bearded Theory: A Carnival of Music and Merriment

🎤Bearded Theory: A Carnival of Music and Merriment


2024 date TBC

 

Prepare to embrace your inner wild spirit at Bearded Theory, a vibrant and eclectic festival celebrating music, art, and community. Located in Derbyshire, this event features an impressive lineup of musicians from various genres, ensuring there’s something for everyone. But Bearded Theory is more than just music; it’s a carnival of creativity.

 

Unleash your imagination as you immerse yourself in circus performances, street theater, and a visual feast of art installations. The spirit of togetherness and inclusivity that permeates Bearded Theory makes it a beloved destination for vanlifers seeking an unforgettable festival experience.

A Feast for the Senses: Festivals of Art and Theatre

Other Vanlife Festivals UK


🎊 Festivals for Every Musical Taste

 

The UK’s vanlife festival scene caters to all music lovers, regardless of their preferred genre. Whether you’re a rock aficionado, an electronic music enthusiast, a folk music lover, or a jazz connoisseur, there’s a festival waiting for you.

 

From the thunderous riffs of rock festivals like Download and Reading Festival to the cutting-edge electronic beats of events like Creamfields and Boomtown Fair, the UK’s music festival calendar offers a plethora of options to satisfy every sonic craving.

 

🖼️ A Feast for the Senses: Festivals of Art and Theatre

 

Vanlife festivals aren’t just about the music; they also provide a platform for immersive art experiences and theatrical performances that engage and captivate festival-goers. Festivals like Latitude and Edinburgh Festival Fringe go beyond the musical realm, showcasing a diverse range of artistic expressions.


From avant-garde theater productions and mind-bending visual arts installations to interactive exhibits that challenge the boundaries of creativity, these festivals push the artistic envelope and create spaces where imagination knows no bounds.

 

🎭 Embracing the Visual Arts: Festivals of Installations and Exhibits

 

For vanlife enthusiasts with an appreciation for visual arts, the UK offers a plethora of festivals that showcase captivating installations and interactive exhibits.

 

In the UK, festivals like Secret Garden Party and Wilderness transform their grounds into immersive wonderlands where art intertwines with nature. From awe-inspiring sculptures to participatory art experiences, these festivals create a feast for the eyes and nurture the artist within.

 

🥎 Adventure and Outdoor Thrills: Festivals of Outdoor Activities and Sports

 

If you’re an adrenaline junkie and vanlife enthusiast, there are festivals that cater to your love for outdoor activities and adventure sports. Boardmasters in Cornwall combines world-class surfing competitions with live music performances, creating a unique fusion of adrenaline-pumping action and musical vibes.

 

For mountain biking enthusiasts, Ard Rock Festival in Yorkshire offers thrilling downhill races and epic trails, surrounded by breathtaking scenery. These festivals allow you to indulge in your passion for outdoor pursuits while connecting with a community of like-minded adventure seekers.

 

📕 Key Takeaways

 

  • Vanlife festivals in the UK offer a diverse range of experiences, from music and art to outdoor activities.

 

  • Elderflower Fields combines music, outdoor activities, and nature in a family-friendly setting.

 

  • Camp Quirky celebrates the eccentric side of vanlife and showcases unique, custom-built vehicles.

 

  • The Green Gathering emphasizes sustainability and eco-conscious living alongside music and workshops.

 

  • Purbeck Valley Folk Festival immerses you in the beauty of the English countryside and the melodies of folk music.

 

  • Shambala takes vanlife festivals to a new level with its diverse music, art installations, and theatrical performances.

 

  • Starry Skies offers outdoor adventures and activities tailored for families in the picturesque Herefordshire countryside.

 

  • Bearded Theory combines music, circus performances, and street theater for a carnival of creativity.

 

  • Outcider Festival blends West Country cider culture with live music performances.

 

  • Tropical Pressure Festival showcases global music, bringing together rhythms and melodies from different cultures.

 

  • Solfest celebrates independent music and grassroots creativity with a fusion of arts, culture, and natural beauty.

 

  • The UK’s vanlife festival scene caters to various music genres, including rock, electronic, folk, and jazz.

 

  • Festivals like Latitude and Edinburgh Festival Fringe showcase art and theater beyond the music.

 

  • Festivals like Burning Man Regional Events and Secret Garden Party highlight visual arts and interactive exhibits.

 

  • Festivals like Boardmasters and Ard Rock Festival combine outdoor activities and adventure sports with live music.

 

❓ FAQs About Vanlife Festivals UK

Vanlife festivals in the UK are events that celebrate the vanlife culture, catering to people who live or travel in vans, campervans, or motorhomes. 

 

These festivals offer a unique experience for van enthusiasts to gather, share stories, participate in workshops, enjoy live music, and connect with like-minded individuals.

Vanlife festivals in the UK are held in various locations across the country. Popular destinations include national parks, scenic campsites, and outdoor venues that provide suitable facilities for camping, parking, and hosting events. 

 

Some well-known vanlife festivals take place in Cornwall, the Lake District, the Scottish Highlands, and Wales.

Vanlife festivals in the UK offer a range of activities to cater to different interests. You can expect live music performances, guest speakers, informative workshops on van conversions, travel tips, and sustainable living. 

 

Additionally, there may be food stalls, craft markets, outdoor games, hiking trails, and opportunities for socializing with fellow vanlifers.

Absolutely! Vanlife festivals in the UK welcome anyone with an interest in the vanlife community, regardless of whether you own a van or not. 

 

These festivals provide a great opportunity to learn more about vanlife, connect with experienced van dwellers, and get inspired for future adventures. Some festivals even offer van rentals or showcase various van models for attendees to explore.

To prepare for a vanlife festival in the UK, consider the following:

 

  • Check the festival’s website for event details, dates, and ticket information.
  • Plan your accommodation if you’re not staying in your own van, such as nearby campsites or local lodging options.
  • Pack essential camping gear, including a tent, sleeping bags, cooking equipment, and appropriate clothing for the weather.
  • Bring any necessary personal items, such as toiletries, medication, and camping chairs.
  • Consider bringing cash for food vendors and any on-site purchases.
  • Familiarize yourself with the festival’s rules and guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

 

Remember to consult the specific festival’s website or organizers for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding each event.

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