This article is part of our series of guides to the different campsites in Glastonbury Festival. Kidney Mead is a popular general campsite that sits on some prime flat ground close to the heart of Glastonbury.
Updated for 2023!
If you’re wondering where to camp at this year’s Glastonbury Festival and you’re considering Kidney Mead, 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 Kidney Mead
Check out Kidney Mead, located at the bottom of the popular Big Ground.
It’s like the flat-grounded extension of Big Ground, and together with Row Mead and Big Ground adjoins the Pyramid Stage field at its far end tip (to the east).
But, before you pack your bags, keep in mind that Kidney Mead is on lower ground compared to Row Mead, which means you might have to deal with the legendary Glasto mud on a rainy year.
On the bright side, Kidney Mead is centrally located and offers quick access to the Pyramid & Acoustic stages, the Cider Bus, and William’s Green.
Plus, you’ll have plenty of options for food and drinks.
But, it’s also a main point of passage, so avoid setting up your tent near the path edges. Although this year we the single paths may have been given a respite, on trail runs from the central trail towards bandstand.
Hopefully this will take some of the crowds away from the junction at the Tony Benn Tower!
So, if you’re down to be close to the action and don’t mind the potential mud and noise, Kidney Mead is the one.
Pros
- Lots of flat ground.
- A central location on the site for camping.
- Great for people who want to be in the thick of the festival.
Cons
- This one is well know for being muddy during rainy years.
- There will be a lot of foot traffic.
- There are some very busy toilets along the edge of the Pyramid Stage field, that boarders Kidney Mead on east side these are known to smell just due to the volume of people using them.
Location
Best Place to Park for Kidney Mead
You could reasonably park East side in Purple parking.
Best Gate to Access Kidney Mead
The closest gates to Kidney Mead are Gate C or Gate B.
Is Camping in Kidney Mead Right for You?
Kidney Mead would be right for you if:
- You are looking to be more central with easier access to main routes through the festival.
- You are planning on staying close to The Pyramid stage, even maybe be able to watch acts from the door of your tent!
- You don’t mind noise and crowds.
- You are arriving early! this place will fill up.
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!
