Ever since we saw Camp Bestival arrive on our feeds several years ago we wanted to go. I don’t know whether it was the colourful setting, the incredible line-ups, or the fact that we could escape for the weekend – just the three of us (and several thousand others) without routine.
The first year we looked into going T was a bit too young, and probably wouldn’t have appreciated it – which was gutting as it was their ‘Space’ theme that year – but that just gave us the opportunity to plan for the following year! Our priority was how family-friendly it was and what activities were available for younger children, as well as whether we’d get a good night’s sleep!
To do this, we explored bloggers who regularly attended the festival – such as My Two Mums – as well as the Camp Bestival Facebook groups, and very quickly we were prepared and ready! Over the next few years – both as bloggers and not – we’ve attended the festival as regulars, making it a highlight of our summer holidays!
If you’re tempted to attend this year, but you’re not quite sure whether there’s enough going on for the whole family – especially if you have babies or teenagers – here’s a guide to what you’re likely to find during the weekend…
Babies – toddlers
One of the most frequent questions we get asked from parents of newborns and toddlers is “What’s there for them?”, which is understandable as there’s only so much walking and dancing you can do!
For smaller babies and toddlers there’s the indoor soft play area, which is great for when you’re needing a sit down or bit of a timeout, although not so much when it’s raining as EVERYONE heads inside making it really busy. Nevertheless, it can be quite quiet during the periods where the big acts are on the main stage so it’s well worth making time for it if you can find something you’re not so keen on watching.
For more active children there’s the giant sand pit, which was perfect last year as it allowed us to sit down and work out what we wanted to do whilst T and his friend played. As it’s located in the Lower Fields you also have a number of show areas and stalls surrounding the area, which means if you’re in a bigger group a few of you can divide and go for bit of a walk.
Each year we’ve attended, there’s always been a few occasions when a well-known author and/or celebrity have taken to the sofa to read a story or two to children. Last year we sat down to listen to Mr. Bloom, and the previous year we had Julian Clarey!
Young children
Imaginative play is hugely important at Camp Bestival, from Lizzie’s Way over in the Dingly Dell, to the Bigtopmania over at the Upper Fields, where children can take part in circus lessons or have a go at playing with a Diabolo. There’s also a handful of tents offering craft and messy play. Last year we took part in painting a cardboard castle, whereas the previous year we could build an actual wooden form with hammers and nails! There’s also costume competitions, face painting, and pimp your wagon to take part in together.
As well as music, Camp Bestival is famous for its entertaining stage shows – from Samsam Bubbleman, Science Shows, and the Flea Circus to a number of different trapeze acts and performances! Over on the main stage is where you’ll find the likes of Mr. Tumble and Mr. Maker, as well as ever-changing guest appearances from shows such as Dinosaurs! Live or ZSL London Zoo.
Older children and teens
As your children get older, music will definitely become the highlight of their weekend. For T it means staying up late, riding in his bed-wagon, and eating brownies at 9:00pm at night. He might not know who he’s listening to, but it doesn’t stop him having a good dance! For teens, the eclectic line-up means that there’s something for everyone.
The fun fairs dotted around the festival breaks up the time between shows, however because of the queuing times and height restrictions this makes it more appropriate for older children and beyond. If you have teens and young adults with you, the fun fair rides gives them the opportunity to take some time out by themselves or with friends. Similar to the fun fairs, the famous Giant Bouncy Castle does have height restrictions and is weather dependent, so not always good for young children. Last year, T spent less than 5 minutes on there before he wanted to come off so we’ll be giving it some room before trying again! But, if you do manage to get on, it’s A LOT of fun!
Lastly, crafty activities aren’t just for the little ones thanks to the Spinney Hollow offering all forms of woodwork and bush craft. T hasn’t been quite old enough each year we’ve attended, however this year he’ll be 5, meaning he might be ready to whittle a sword or a bow and arrow! Likewise, he might finally be old enough to take part in woodland activities such as zip wiring and tree climbing! These kinds of activities do get booked up quite quickly, so get in early and book yourself a place!
Obviously everyone is welcome everywhere (except for soft play, this is strictly under 4s only) within Camp Bestival however there will always be shows and activities more suited for certain age ranges (especially if there is a height restriction!).
Our best advice for attending Camp Bestival with children of different ages is to apply as little pressure on yourself as possible. Try and plan a little using the programme, however we found that when we just followed our ears and saw what the day brought us it was a lot more relaxing!
Ticket information
Camp Bestival 2020 Weekend Tickets are now on sale.
Tickets are sold in tiers; once tickets at ‘Tier 4’ prices are sold out, they move to ‘Tier 5’ prices. The earlier you buy, the less you pay!
Book via the official ticket line on 0844 844 0444, or via Ticketmaster (Front Gate Tickets).
Camp Bestival Weekend Ticket* ‘Tier 4’ prices:
- Adults: £200
- Students: £195
- Teens Aged 13 to 17: £135
- Children Aged 10 to 12: £110
- Children Aged 5 to 9: £60
- Children Aged 4 & Under: £40
Tickets for babes-in-arms (1 & under) are FREE (but do still require a ticket, so must be included in each booking).
All tickets are subject to booking fees and postage.
* All weekend tickets include access to the general campsites from Thursday to Monday.
Additional Camp Bestival options:
- Car parking is £20, to be booked in advance.
- Camping Plus, Boutique, Backstage and Hospitality camping options are also available.
- Campervan / Motorhome Tickets are available for £97.50 – please read the campervan / motorhome info for specifics.
- Caravan / Trailer Tent Tickets are available for £107.50 – please read the caravan / trailer tent info for specifics.
- Front Row Campervan / Caravan Tickets are available for £185 and £195 respectively – please read the front row campervan / caravan info for specifics.
- Festival programme packs are available for £10 (reserve your festival programme pack with your booking to collect on site at the festival).
Disclosure: We are given complimentary tickets and weekend entry to Camp Bestival as part of their blogger programme, in exchange for coverage prior and a review after the festival, however all thoughts, opinions, and imagery is our own.
Please note: All prices mentioned were correct at the time of writing.
