Top 14 UK Music Festivals, Including Glastonbury and Mighty Hoopla
It’s time to get ready for the summer festival season by digging out your summer clothes and stocking up on sun cream as the UK music festival scene is gearing up for a fantastic summer in 2025. The plethora of options available can be overwhelming, so let The Independent’s culture team guide you through some of the best UK music festivals for this year, considering the lineup and additional attractions at each festival. Brace yourself for a truly outstanding celebration of exceptional talent at Meltdown Festival, uniquely curated this year by the talented Mercury Prize-winning rapper Little Simz. For a touch of luxurious experience mixing music, gourmet food, and spa treatments, head over to Wilderness Festival. If you prefer a more down-to-earth vibe, the stunning Brecon Beacons hosts the Green Man Festival, or venture into the serene woodlands of Larmer Tree Gardens for End of the Road.
Looking for a vibrant and buzzing environment? The Great Escape festival in Brighton is the perfect platform for discovering and enjoying emerging bands, rappers, and singer-songwriters right on the vibrant Brighton seaside. Alternatively, Victorious in Portsmouth offers major rock acts against the backdrop of the pier and a funfair. Whatever your preference, each festival promises an entertaining and unforgettable experience.
Kicking off the festival season is The Great Escape in Brighton from May 14-17, showcasing a blend of rock, pop, hip-hop, folk, and country music. The festival will be hosting The Independent’s stage at the Old Market, featuring radical rock icons Skunk Anansie and the brilliant duo SpaceAcre. Don’t miss the keynote conversation with lead singer Skin about her illustrious career. Join us for this musical celebration!
Following on the heels is Mighty Hoopla in London from May 31 to June 1, known for its exuberant pop music extravaganza. This year, a groundbreaking all-female lineup of headliners, including the likes of JADE and Loreen, is set to grace the stage. The festival will also feature Queertopia, spotlighting emerging talents within the LGBTQ+ community like Turkish artist INJI and electronic musician Hannah Diamond.
Londoners can rejoice with the return of Meltdown from June 12-22 at the Southbank Centre curated by the talented Little Simz. The 11-day festival boasts an impressive lineup of British and international artists, such as Ghetts, Jon Batiste, and Mahalia. Notable performances include Lola Young, Tiwa Savage, BADBADNOTGOOD, James Blake, and Sasha Keable. Don’t miss Little Simz’s anticipated collaboration with the Chineke! Orchestra for an unforgettable closing night concert.
Moving north to Manchester, Parklife will be taking place on June 14-15, featuring a diverse mix of rap, R&B, alt-pop, and electronic music headlined by Charli XCX. The festival boasts an eclectic lineup with the addition of 50 Cent in a rare UK appearance, along with talents like Lola Young and Antony Szmierek.
Lastly, Glastonbury, the crown jewel of UK music festivals, will be held from June 25-29 in Somerset, attracting music enthusiasts to its sprawling 1,200-acre expanse. The festival promises a magical experience with headliners like The 1975, Neil Young, and Olivia Rodrigo, creating an atmosphere that resonates with the essence of its hippie roots.