Festival season is here – and if you’re craving good music, epic vibes, and unforgettable memories, then UK festivals have you covered. Whether you’re into rock, dance, indie or pop, summer 2025 is packed with iconic music festivals set in stunning locations across the country.
Six must-visit UK festivals
From muddy fields to coastal cliffs, each festival offers a unique atmosphere – and if you’re planning to hit the road with friends, a bit of prep can go a long way. Here’s our guide to six must-visit UK festivals and the top tips to make your trip a breeze.
Download Festival – Donington Park, Leicestershire
When: 13–15 June 2025
Genre: Rock & Metal
Headliners: Green Day, Sleep Token and Korn
Calling all rock and metal fans – Download is the UK’s ultimate heavy music festival. With legendary past headliners like Metallica, Slipknot, and Iron Maiden, expect a weekend of loud guitars, mosh pits, and high-energy sets.
Top Tip: Bring sturdy boots and waterproofs as Download is notorious for mud! If you’re road-tripping, sort out your flexible car insurance in advance so everyone can take a turn driving.
Isle of Wight Festival – Seaclose Park, Newport
When: 19–22 June 2025
Genre: Rock, Pop, Indie
Headliners: Sting, Stereophonics and Justin Timberlake
This historic festival delivers a chilled-out vibe with a top-tier lineup. From classic headliners to up-and-coming artists, Isle of Wight combines great music with a nostalgic, retro feel – and the island setting is part of the magic.
Top Tip: Book ferry tickets early – and allow extra time for queues. Make sure your vehicle is insured for the trip with flexible, pay-as-you-go cover.
Glastonbury – Worthy Farm, Somerset
When: 25–29 June 2025
Genre: Everything from Folk to Dance
Headliners: The 1975, Neil Young and Olivia Rodrigo
Arguably the most iconic festival in the world, Glastonbury is a rite of passage for music fans. But it’s more than just music – expect theatre, art, activism, and endless hidden gems across its sprawling site.
Top Tip: Download the official Glasto app and plan your must-see acts in advance. If you’re driving, pay-as-you-go car insurance can cover you for a few days – ideal if you’re borrowing a vehicle to get there.
Wireless Festival – Finsbury Park, London
When: 4–6 July 2025
Genre: Hip-Hop, R&B, Urban
Headliner: Drake
Wireless is the UK’s premier urban music festival, bringing the biggest names in hip-hop and R&B to the heart of London. Think huge headline sets and serious party energy.
Top Tip: As it’s a non-camping, city-based festival, think light and travel smart. Car sharing with friends? Take out a pay-as-you-go insurance policy to keep everything legal and hassle-free.
Boardmasters – Newquay, Cornwall
When: 6–10 August 2025
Genre: Surf, Indie, Dance
Headliners: Raye, Central Cee and The Prodigy
Boardmasters is where music meets the sea. Set on the Cornish coastline, it blends live music with surf competitions and wellness activities. Expect beach parties, scenic sunsets, and laid-back vibes.
Top Tip: Pack swimwear and sunscreen – and make it a proper summer road trip! If you’re taking turns behind the wheel, flexible car insurance is the easy way to stay covered.
Reading Festival – Richfield Avenue, Reading
When: 22–24 August 2025
Genre: Rock, Pop, Hip-Hop
Headliners: Hozier, Chappel Roan, Bring Me the Horizon and Travis Scott
One of the UK’s biggest and most diverse festivals, Reading (and its twin in Leeds) never disappoints. It’s the ultimate end-of-summer party, attracting top acts across multiple genres.
Top Tip: Arrive early to get a good camping spot – and bring earplugs! If you’re driving home Monday morning, flexible car insurance is perfect if someone else needs to take over driving.
Festival Road Trip Tips
If you’re planning a summer of music and travel, here are some essential tips to keep things fun and stress-free:
- Stay covered: If you’re borrowing a mate’s car or taking turns behind the wheel, use pay-as-you-go car insurance to stay legal and safe.
- Travel light, pack smart: Focus on festival essentials – tent, wellies, suncream, power bank.
- Plan your route: Avoid traffic chaos by setting off early and using real-time traffic apps.
- Keep hydrated: Bring a reusable bottle – all major festivals now have free water stations.
Drive Safe, Party Smart
Festival season is the perfect excuse for a UK road trip – and with the right planning, it can be the adventure of a lifetime. Whether you’re headed to the mosh pit at Download or the surf shores of Boardmasters, don’t let insurance issues ruin your plans.
Stay covered with flexible, short-term car insurance – get a quick quote today and enjoy the freedom to party, with total peace of mind.