This article is part of our series of guides to the different campsites in Glastonbury Festival. Cockmill Meadow is one of the more popular campsites, mostly because it’s geared towards families and children.
Updated for 2023!
If you’re wondering where to camp at this year’s Glastonbury Festival and you’re considering Cockmill Meadow, 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.
Glastonbury’s Family-Friendly Campsite
Cockmill Meadow, located in the north-eastern corner of the site, is a prime spot for families to set up camp.
There are no specific requirements for the ratio of adults to children in any group, so friends and families without kids are also welcome to join in on the fun.
However, it’s important to note that this area is quite popular due to its proximity to the Kidz Field and space is limited. If you’re not traveling with children, it may be best to consider other camping options.
The only negative thing about this campsite is that it’s got power lines going right through it, which do buzz a little bit so if that makes you feel uneasy, look somewhere else to camp.
Access to Cockmill Meadow is easiest through Gate B, but it can be a bit of a challenge for most ticket holders unless you’re able to park in the Eastern “Purple” car parks.
An alternative option is to use the “Blue” car parks and enter the site at Gate C, then take the uphill track between the Acoustic Tent and the Kidz Field. You’ll be able to spot the big helter-skelter in the Kidz Field from there.
If you’re entering through Western Gates A and D, it may be more convenient to choose the alternative Family Camping area in Wicket Ground. It’s a bit of a hike from those gates, but later arrivals will find that Wicket Ground still has plenty of space available, even after Cockmill Meadow fills up.
Pros of Camping in Cockmill Meadow
- Great for families with kids
- Located right next to the Kidz field
- Quiet evenings with no late-night entertainment close
Cons of Camping in Cockmill Meadow
- Very popular, so space is limited
- Kids tend to wake up early, so if you like to sleep-in, expect to be woken up!
- It’s located very far away from the late-night entertainment areas, so you’ll have to walk a long way if that’s your thing
Location
Best Place to Park For Cockmill Meadow
You should park in the purple or blue car park to access Cockmill Meadow campsite, as this is the closest.
Best Gate to Access Cockmill Meadow
The closest gate to Cockmill Meadow is Gate B, but Gate C isn’t must of a further walk. If you come the purple carpark, use Gate B, otherwise use Gate C if you’ve parked in the blue carpark.
Is Camping in Cockmill Meadow Right for You?
This is primarily a family campsite. Camping in Cockmill Meadow is right for you if:
- You are camping with your family that includes young kids
- You’re arriving at the festival early on Wednesday
- You’re able to start queuing late on Tuesday night or very early on Wednesday morning
- You don’t mind long walks to the late night entertainment areas
Alternatives
If you find no space in Cockmill Meadow, 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!
