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 nights 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; 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 it’s 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 & 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 9pm 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 Fair 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 Fair, the infamous Giant Bouncy Castle does have height restrictions and is weather dependent, so not always good for young children. Last year, T spent less than five 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 4’s 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!

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.

Tickets are sold in tiers – once Tier 4 tickets are sold out, we move to Tier 5 prices so the earlier you buy, the less you pay.

Official Ticket Agents:
Ticketmaster (Front Gate Tickets) / 0844 844 0444 or help page

CAMP BESTIVAL 2020 TIER 4 PRICES

Adult Weekend Ticket – £200
Student Weekend Ticket – £195
Age 13 to 17 Weekend Ticket – £135
Age 10 to 12 Weekend Ticket – £110
Age 5 to 9 Weekend Ticket – £60
Age 4 & Under Weekend Ticket – £40
Babes In Arms (1 & Under) – FREE (but ticket required)

All weekend tickets include access to the general campsites from Thursday to Monday

 Please refer to the Camp Bestival Ticket Terms & Conditions below

All tickets subject booking fees & postage

Extras: 

Car Parking – £20 in advance

Campervan Ticket – £97.50
– please read T&Cs here before booking

Caravan / Trailer Tent Ticket – £107.50
 – please read T&Cs here before booking

Front Row Campervan – £185 **SOLD OUT**
Front Row Caravan Front Row – £195 **SOLD OUT**
 – please read T&Cs here before booking

Festival Programme Pack – £10 (reserve your festival programme pack to collect at the festival)