This article is part of our series of guides to the different campsites in Glastonbury Festival. Dairy Ground is a general campsite that sits on some great flat ground right next to Gate D.
Updated for 2023!
If you’re wondering where to camp at this year’s Glastonbury Festival and you’re considering Dairy Ground , keep reading to see whether it’s right for you!
First up – Glastonbury is not like other festivals, the various different campsites do not have barriers between them and the arena/entertainment areas. Once you’re in through the main gates, you can pretty much explore everything inside the festival.
Camping in Dairy Ground
Dairy Ground may not be the most popular camping spot on the festival site, but it’s definitely worth checking out if you’re looking for a good alternative to the more crowded areas.
It’s one of the larger camping fields on the site and it’s conveniently located right next to Gate D and the Western car parks, making it a great option for those who plan on driving to the festival.
The downside of Dairy Ground is that it’s a bit further away from the heart of the action and the Pyramid Stage, but it’s usually less crowded than other nearby camping areas like Pennard Hill and Park Home Ground, so you might still be able to snag a spot even if you arrive on Thursday.
The field was not always dedicated to public camping, it was used for parking until 2008 and there were some issues with the field name, being known as Dairy Ground and Paines Ground interchangeably, up until 2016.
With the increased space for public camping here in 2022, and the relocation of crew/staff camping in 2023 it’s definitely worth considering if you’re looking for a spot that’s not too crowded and a little bit more secluded.
You will also get to look forward to the new Dairy Ground Market area slap bang in the middle of the ground along a much needed path! For many this will be a welcome addition as Dairy Ground has been lacking any kind of food and drink traders, or facilities in general in previous years!
This is where we camped in 2022, we arrived on Wednesday early in the morning (after shivering for hours in the queue!), we entered through Gate D and set up in what was at the time a completely empty field.
Why did I stay here when we could have found a pitch in one of the more popular campsites? I was sick… the entire way there. By the time we arrived I didn’t have any energy left in me to go further.
If you set up in an empty or sparsely tented field like we did, but then head out, you could be coming back to a sea of tents and struggle to find yours!
Just be aware that if someone recommends you to camp in Dairy Ground, they might actually be referring to the field next door.
Pros
- Lots of flat ground.
- Plenty of space for camping and spreading out
- Close to the West car parks for those driving in.
- Usually has space in to Thursday.
- New market area!
Cons
- Dairy Ground can get muddy and waterlogged if it rains, especially if the site has rain on or before the first days, due to proximity to Gate D and the traffic coming past. This can limit camping space as muddy paths spread out.
- Long walks to the most popular areas of the festival.
Location
Best Place to Park for Dairy Ground
Park in Orange parking.
Best Gate to Access Dairy Ground
Come in through Gate D – you could pretty much stumble through Gate D and fall straight into a camping spot!
Is Camping in Dairy Ground Right for You?
Dairy Ground would be right for you if:
- You are not concerned with a bit of walking.
- You want the quickest entry and exit to the festival.
- You would like a quiet camping experience.
- You are arriving on Wednesday or Thursday.
Dairy Ground Alternatives
Other areas near by you can also try:
For those who may not know, Glastonbury Festival is one of the biggest and most iconic music festivals in the world, taking place annually in the UK. This five-day extravaganza is like a magical kingdom, where the music never stops and the good vibes flow 24/7. The line-up is always a who’s who of the music industry, with past headliners including the likes of Beyoncé, Adele, Paul McCartney and Ed Sheeran.
But Glastonbury isn’t just about the music. It’s an immersive experience that’s hard to put into words. Imagine wandering through the lush fields, taking in the colourful and eclectic art installations, and getting lost in the diverse array of food and craft stalls. It’s like stepping into an entirely different world, where anything is possible.
One of the things that makes Glastonbury so special is the sense of community. The festivalgoers are a diverse group of people from all walks of life, but for five days, we’re all one big family. The vibe is so positive and inclusive, it’s impossible not to feel uplifted and connected to everyone around you.
See you on the farm!
