Finding The Perfect Campsite at Glastonbury – A Complete Guide

Where’s the best place to camp at Glastonbury Festival?

First of all, congratulations on bagging yourself a Glastonbury Ticket! If it’s your first time at the festival, you’ll undoubtedly be wondering where to camp at Glastonbury Festival.

Your chosen campsite is important. It will be your home for the next 5-6 days!

The experience you’ll get at the different campsites within Glastonbury Festival can vary greatly – from lively to secluded, there are over 27 different general-access campsites available to choose from!

Glastonbury Festival is one of the best music festivals in the world. It’s loved by millions of people, and thousands flock every year to take part in this festival of love and music.

The festival grounds are huge and have many campsites for people to stay at. All those who attend Glastonbury Festival have different preferences when it comes to camping.

However, choosing the perfect campsite can be tricky as there are multiple factors to consider before making a final decision.

Things like the distance from the Pyramid Stage, or how far you’ll have to walk from the gate with all your camping gear.

In this blog, we’re sharing all you need to know about choosing the best campsite at Glastonbury festival including pros and cons of Glastonbury big ground campsite, row mead campsite, etc.

Where is the best place to camp at Glastonbury Festival?

Tents can be pitched anywhere within the designated camping zones at Glastonbury Festival. Those looking for a tranquil camping experience can stay away from the Pyramid Stage and stay on the outskirts of the festival.

These areas are quieter than the big top and offer more space to camp with fewer people, such as South Park.

Then again, fields like Pennard Hill are much more lively, and therefore popular and can get filled up really fast.

If you’re camping at glastonbury festival, there are many enjoyable and wonderful places to camp!

What to Consider When Choosing a Campsite at Glastonbury

If you’re planning a camping trip to Glastonbury, there are several factors you should consider when choosing your campsite.

Your arrival time

Whether you’re arriving first thing on Wednesday or later on Thursday will have an impact on where you camp. Many of the popular campsites, such as Pennard Hill gets full really quickly.

Location

The location of the campsite can have a big impact on your camping experience. If your favourite bands are playing on a particular stage – you’ll want to pick a spot that’s not too far away!

You can end up walking 45+ minutes between stages in Glastonbury – so pick a spot that suits your musical style so you don’t have to walk too far every day.

Leave Gazebos at Home – There’s No Space!

Avoid taking up too much space with a gazebo. If you’re looking for a more luxurious camping experience, try one of the awesome Glamping Sites near the festival.

– Finally, consider the type of camping experience you want when choosing your campsite.

Tips for Picking the Perfect Campsite at Glastonbury

If you’re planning a camping trip to Glastonbury, it’s important to consider which campsite best suits your needs. This will help ensure you have a great time and are able to enjoy the festival atmosphere without any hassle.

Get to the festival as early as possible to secure your spot.

By doing this, you’ll avoid having to walk across the site to find camping spots if the area you want is already full.

As long as you are prepared and do your research before heading to Glastonbury, there’s no reason why you can’t have a perfect camping experience!

Pros and Cons of Different Campsites at Glastonbury

When it comes to camping, a lot of factors need to be considered. One of them is the location of the campsite itself. A good campsite should be close to the stage and other attractions in order to make it convenient for you to reach them easily.

Big Ground

This campsite sits on higher ground and slopes gently towards the main stage, which means you’ll have less chance of flooding if it rains.

You’ll find plenty of toilet and water points nearby, as well as shops, bars, and food trucks.

All of this good stuff makes it a prime location… and that has a major downside. It’s busy af. And will fill up fast.

Although there are some areas to avoid, like near paths or junctions, as these areas get very busy.

If you’re looking to be close to the action and catch all the main stage performances, and at the same time have a relatively quiet spot to rest at night, Big Ground is a great option for you.

Read more about camping in Big Ground here.

Hawkwell – Best For Watching The Pyramid Stage From Your Tent

You’ll be pitching your tent on a steep incline that may have you sleeping at a 45-degree angle, but the trade-off is a stunning view of The Pyramid stage.

Access to Hawkwell is easy, with gates B and C nearby, and the Yellow and Purple car parks within walking distance.

It’s also a short walk to the Pyramid stage.

But be prepared for a bit of an uphill climb back to your tent at night and keep in mind that the incline may be challenging for some, especially for those camping near the top of the hill.

Read more about camping in Hawkwell here.

Row Mead

Row Mead is the place to be for those looking to catch the Pyramid Stage performances from your own tent!

With a direct view of the Pyramid Field, it’s no surprise that this spot is a popular choice among festival-goers.

So, if you’re planning to camp at Row Mead, keep in mind that space might be a bit tight.

Read more about camping in Row Mead here.

Kidney mead

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!

Read more about camping in Kidney Mead here.

Michael’s Mead

Pretty much in the heart of the Festival, Michael’s Mead offers a memorable camping experience with great views of the site and Pyramid Stage.

Located just north of the Pyramid Stage, this camping field is also stone’s throw away from John Peel Stage.

However, with its picturesque location comes a bit of a trade-off…

It’s on a hill.

Learn more about camping in Michael’s Mead here.

South Park

This small and cozy campsite is nestled close to the festival’s perimeter fence and surrounded by hedgerows, giving it a secluded and intimate feel.

One of the best things about South Park is that it has plenty of camping space, even for those who are rolling in on Thursday!

Just make sure you access the campsite from Gate D, otherwise, you’ll have to walk a good 20 minutes to get to it.

Learn more about camping in South Park.

Park Home Ground

Located just northwest of Pennard Hill Ground, this camping ground has the advantage of being next to The Park entertainment area and just a short walk over the disused railway track to the Other Stage Field.

Plus, it has the Co-Op store at the bottom of the field for all your mid-festival shopping needs (at reasonable prices too)

But, keep in mind that Arcadia – which is literally located on Park Home Grounds doorstep and therefore endures a large amount of foot traffic and loud noises till the early hours of the morning.

So, if you’re a light sleeper, this spot might not be for you.

Learn more about camping in Park Home Ground here.

Pennard Hill – Best for Nightlife & Late Night Fun

This popular camping spot is located in the southern part of the festival, between The Park, Stone Circle, and Green Fields.

It’s also close to the late-night entertainment areas like Arcadia and the South East “Naughty Corner.”

But, with great locations always means greater crowds. We’re talking prime Glastonbury real estate here.

Pennards tends to fill up extremely fast, so make sure you arrive early to snag a spot.

On the plus side, you’ll be close to The Park, Arcadia, Sacred Space, Healing Field and Green Features.

Read more about camping in Pennard Hill here.

Hitchin Hill

Tucked away at the most northern point of the festival, this regular campground boasts an elevated vantage point of the entire festival, including an awe-inspiring view of the legendary Pyramid Stage which sits just below the campground.

Unlike other camping areas that tend to fill up quickly, Hitchin Hill Ground is known for still having available spots even on Thursday, making it a great option for people who arrive at the festival later.

Plus, being situated on the outer edge of the festival, this campground tends to be quieter, providing a serene retreat from the constant hustle and bustle of the festival.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that this campground is on a slope, so it might be a bit challenging for some.

Read more about camping on Hitchin Hill here.

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.

This campsite is absolutely huge. And in 2023 is even bigger following the removal of some staff camping on it’s north east edge!

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.

Dairy ground now boasts it’s on market space in it’s centre, something that was sorely needed in such a large campground.

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.

Read more about camping in Dairy Ground here.

Bailey’s

Bailey’s is a little piece of calm is tucked away from the hustle and bustle that other camping grounds are famous for. This makes it a just the right spot for those who are looking for a more low-key camping experience.

One of the best things about Bailey’s Field is that, even though it’s a relatively small field, it’s not often as crowded as other camping areas.

Read more about camping in Bailey’s here.

Paines Ground

Paines Ground, located in the southwest of the Festival grounds. The easiest way to access this field is through Gate D, so make sure to head that way when you arrive.

Once you’re there, you’ll find yourself in the middle of Paines Ground – a massive field that’s perfect for those who want to experience the best of both worlds.

By day, you’ll be able to catch all the action at The Park Stage, and by night, you can head over to Arcadia and dance the night away.

Read more about camping in Paines Ground here.

Rig’s Field – Best For Thursday Arrivals

Are you looking for a laid-back camping spot with room to spread out? Rig’s Field in the southwest corner of the festival grounds is the spot for you.

It’s perfect for those rolling in later than expected with plenty of space and low tent density. Just keep in mind, it’s a bit of a walk to the main stages and the heart of the festival.

If you’re arriving on Thursday and worried about space – Rig’s Field is the place to go!

Read more about camping in Rig’s Field here.

Spring Ground – Accessible Campsite

Spring Ground at Glastonbury Festival is a dedicated camping area reserved for those with disabilities and their carers.

This campground is equipped with various features to make the festival experience as comfortable and accessible as possible for those with disabilities.

Upon arrival, campers will find concrete ramps at the entrance to the field, making it easy for wheelchair access.

In addition, there are charging facilities for mobility scooters, as well as a high-dependency unit which provides access to sterile toilets, washing and medical facilities for those with serious illnesses.

Read more about camping in Spring Ground campsite here.

Darble – Best For Coach Arrivals

The Darble campsite is located in the northwest area of the festival and is easily accessible through Gate A.

It’s easily accessible because as soon as you enter through Gate A, you’ll find Darble right in front of you! It’s perfect for those of you who want to set up camp as soon as you arrive.

The Pyramid Stage is just a quick 15-minute walk away.

Darble is an excellent choice for those who arrived via coach or bicycle, as the reserved bicycle camp is immediately North of Darble.

However, keep in mind that it’s further away from nightlife areas and it may be busy due to the high foot traffic.

Read more about camping in Darble here.

Webb’s Ash

Look no further than Webb’s Ash, which is set slightly North West of the infamous Pyramid Stage!

This general campground offers easy access through Gates A, B, and C. Plus, it’s just a quick 5-minute walk to the Pyramid Stage.

But that’s not all, Webb’s Ash has a few perks that make it stand out from the rest. The ground is flatter than its neighbouring areas, making it easy to find a spot to pitch your tent.

Read more about camping in Webb’s Ash here.

Bushy Ground

If you’re looking for a little bit of peace and quiet while still being close to the action, Bushy Ground might just be the spot for you.

This massive camping field was established at the festival in 2010 for England’s football fans to watch the games on large screens, and has been a popular campsite choice in the years that follow.

With its peripheral location, the tent density is usually low and it’s conveniently located near Gate D.

Plus, it’s a great option for late arrivals as there will usually still be space available well into Thursday.

Read more about camping in Bushy Ground here.

Rivermead

Nestled between the bustling Pylon Ground and Bushy Ground, Rivermead is a hidden gem of a campsite that made its debut at the Festival back in 2011 (before that it was used for car parking, but as the festival grew, so did demand for camping space)

This small but mighty field is the perfect spot for music lovers who want to be close to the action at Silver Hayes without sacrificing a peaceful place to rest their heads.

One of the best things about Rivermead is its quick and easy access from both Gate A and D, making it a convenient option for festival-goers who are arriving late or leaving early.

Although Rivermead in 2023 has been halved in size, with the western side being handed over to staff camping. It’s also no longer accessible through Pylon Ground

But with great location comes a potential downside: the proximity to the river that runs through the field can make it a muddy mess in wetter years.

Read more about camping in Rivermead here.

Pylon Ground

Following 2023’s site changes, Pylon Ground is no longer a public camping ground, and has been changed to staff camping. With a large additional chunk of camping ground added to its western side.

Pylon Ground is a campsite located in the northwest area of Glastonbury Festival, it’s easily accessible through Gate A or D and is closest to the yellow car park nearby.

Being close to Gate A means that Pylon ground is the first place coach and bus attendees arrive through, a great option if your are just looking to get in, set up and have fun without slogging across the entire site to get to Pennards!

Plus, the Pyramid Stage is only about a 15-minute walk away.

The relatively flat fields that make up the Pylon Ground means that it’s less likely to flood, and the foot traffic is far less compared to neighbouring campsites as it’s not a major thoroughfare.

However, it’s pretty damn far away from the nightlife areas and the pylon towers above you will emit that annoying constant low hum of electricity.

Read more about camping in Pylon Ground here.

Oxylers – Best For Watching The Other Stage From Your Tent

Located right in the heart of the festival site, it’s got easy access to all the main entertainment areas, including the Silver Hayes dance area to the north, The Other Stage to the east, and the old railway track to the south.

Plus, the Pyramid Stage and The Park Stage are just a short walk away.

But be warned, this spot is in high demand and fills up fast, so you’ll have to act fast if you want to snag a spot in this field.

One of the best things about Oxlyers is that it’s flat, making it easy to navigate and set up camp.

But, being low-lying, it can be prone to getting muddy if the weather takes a turn for the worse.

And, with the high density of tents, you’ll be rubbing elbows with your camping neighbors.

Read more about camping in Oxlyers here.

Back House

Looking for quieter place to rest your head? look no further than Back House in the southwest corner of the festival grounds.

This spot first came to be back in 2015 and is tucked away behind a thick hedge, making it the perfect spot for those looking for loads of space between tents and hardly any neighbours.

Plus, The Park is just a stone’s throw away.

To get to Back House, the best bet is to come through Gate D which is quite close to this field.

Arriving from any other gate will be a long hike.

Back House offers plenty of camping space. But remember it’s likely this one may only open on Thursday, to ensure later arrivals hae enough space to set up camp.

Read more about camping in Back House here.

Wicket Ground – Best for Families

Surrounded by a fence with stewards at the entrance, this area offers added security and peace of mind for parents with young children.

One of the main pros of Wicket Ground is its close proximity to Pedestrian Gate A, making it a convenient option for families who enter the festival via this gate.

Additionally, the field has a large amount of camping space with room to spread out.

However, it’s worth noting that Wicket Ground is located on the outskirts of the festival site, quite far from the main stages and other attractions.

This may not be the best option for families with children who are looking to be closer to the action.

2023 will also see a portion of Wicket Ground handed over to Accessible Camping, although the rest is still family camping.

Read more about camping in Wicket Ground here.

Lime Kiln

This campground tends to be quieter than others and is perfect for those who arrive late, as it doesn’t fill up as quickly.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for a camping spot that’s closer to the festival’s nightlife, then this might not be the best choice for you.

The walk back to your tent after a night of partying can be quite a hike as the festival’s nightlife areas are quite a distance away.

Additionally, the uphill slope can be quite challenging. Although that depends on your fitness and how intoxicated you are!

In summary, this is the perfect spot for those who want to experience the natural beauty of Glastonbury Festival while also having a bit of peace and quiet.

Read more about camping in Lime Kiln here.

Lower Mead

This campground is perfect for music lovers, with the John Peel Stage being just a stone’s throw away, and The Other Stage and Silver Hayes being a short walk away.

Lower Mead is located located at the North side of the festival site, and it is accessible through Gate A.

In the past, the area was home to the beloved Beat Hotel, a small cocktail bar that was a staple at Glastonbury from 2011 until its final year in 2019.

The team behind the Beat Hotel have created a new venue called San Remo which brings the same lively, late-night atmosphere to the area.

Lower Mead is known for being one of the most popular areas at the Festival, so be sure to arrive early to secure your camp spot.

Read more about camping in Lower Mead here.

Cyclist’s Ground – Best for Cyclists

The organisers have doubled the campground size in 2023, hopefully that extra space will convince more to cycle in!

Located in the northwest area of the festival, it’s easily accessible through Gate A and the Pyramid Stage is about a 15-minute walk away.

As part of Glastonbury’s efforts to reduce CO2 emissions, they encourage festival-goers to cycle to the event.

The festival site is just a short distance from Route 3 of the National Cycle Network and there are plenty of resources available to help plan your route.

Plus, the festival offers a secure bike lock-up, a designated cyclist’s campsite, and even a luggage delivery service for a small fee. There are plenty of perks to cycling to the festival and this dedicated campsite is one of the best!

Read more about cycling to Glastonbury and camping in the cyclist’s ground here.

Cockmill Meadow– Family 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.

Read more about camping in Cockmill Meadow here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Camp Anywhere At Glastonbury Festival?

Yes – you can pretty much pitch your tent anywhere within the public general-access campsites as you please with a few exceptions. There is no need to pre-book.

So, while you may be tempted to set up camp in a secluded spot off the beaten path, it’s important to remember that camping outside of designated areas is strictly prohibited.

Glastonbury Festival has 27 campsites to choose from, each offering a unique perspective on the festival.

Glastonbury has fewer restrictions than other mainstream festivals, there are plenty of options to choose from to make your camping experience as enjoyable as possible.

The general camping areas offer the most freedom, allowing you to pitch your tent wherever you choose within the fields borders.

But for those looking for a more peaceful and quiet experience, there are family camping and quieter camping fields too.

Disabled campground and glamping and campervan areas are also available for those looking to make their festival experience as comfortable as possible.

Glastonbury Festival Camping

Glastonbury Festival has 27 campsites to choose from, each offering a unique perspective on the festival.

What are the differences between camping in a designated area and camping off-site?

When it comes to camping, some people prefer camping in designated areas while others opt for camping off-site. Both camping options have their own advantages and disadvantages.

Camping in a designated area is usually more secure than camping off-site. This is because many camping sites are monitored by park rangers or other authorities who can ensure that campers stay within the prescribed guidelines. Campers must also follow the specific rules and regulations of the camping ground to ensure safety. Additionally, camping in a designated area may provide access to resources such as fire points and shops which could be beneficial for your camping experience.

On the other hand, camping off-site often offers more freedom and privacy than camping in designated areas. When camping off-site, campers do not need to worry about following specific rules or regulations as there are often none imposed by any authority. They are free to wander and explore their surroundings without worrying about any external restrictions.

What amenities should I look for when choosing a campsite at Glastonbury?

When it comes to choosing a campsite at Glastonbury, there are several amenities that you should keep an eye out for. For starters, distance to the toilets…

The ticket price also includes access to all camping fields, so feel free to explore the different ones to decide which best suits your needs or preferences. If you’d like something a bit more luxurious, glamping options are available too!

Make sure to check the amenities of the camping sites (e.g. showers, toilets) before making your final decision, as these factors can make or break your glamping experience.

Are there any rules and regulations I should be aware of when camping at Glastonbury?

For camping at Glastonbury and other festivals, there are a few simple rules and regulations that you should be aware of.

1. Tickets for camping at Glastonbury include access to the designated camping zones along with other festival activities. Make sure to pitch your tents in these areas as they’re specifically designed to accommodate large numbers of festival goers without overcrowding.

2. When camping at a festival, don’t forget to bring the necessary supplies such as toilet rolls, snacks, and shelter to ensure a comfortable experience throughout the festival weekend!

3. Gazebos are not allowed in festival camping grounds and if fields are full upon your arrival, tune into Worthy FM for updates on where best to camp.

By following these simple rules, you’ll be able to make the most of your festival experience without any issues!

Conclusion

Now that you’re acquainted with the best campsites at Glastonbury, it’s time to set off on a quest for finding the perfect campsite for you.

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!

We hope this guide has helped you make an informed decision.

Happy festival-ing!