Hay Festival, Hay-on-Wye, Wales
23 May – 2 June
For those of you who prefer your festivals a little more cultured, head on down to Hay-on-Wye for performances from choirs and musicians, and readings from some of the world’s greatest writers. Don’t expect to stay up all night partying though – this family friendly festival and is more about education than music.
Slam Dunk Festival, various locations
24 – 29 May
Pop-punk fans, this is the must-go-to festival for you. On for a day at a time in various locations across the country, it will see favourites like Kids In Glass Houses, Mallory Knox and The Wonder Years grace the stage in Hatfield, Wolverhampton and Leeds, with smaller shows on in Scotland, Wales and Ireland.
Truck Festival, Steventon, Oxfordshire
19 – 20 July
Held in the picturesque Oxfordshire countryside, this small festival is back and better than ever. With a line up including The Horrors, Dry The River and The Joy Formidable, and several local acts hailing from the same town that brought you Radiohead and Foals, it’s definitely a contender for the best small festival around.
Hevy Festival, Port Lympne Animal Park, Kent
2 – 4 August
If you know your hardcore bands from your punk, Hevy’s the festival for you. This year is even featuring Black Flag’s first UK performance in almost 30 years, and the majority of the line-up is yet to be announced. Not only that, but you can check out the animal park while you’re there. Win win!
Wilderness, Cornbury, Oxfordshire
8 – 11 August
Another treat from Oxfordshire, last year this upmarket festival held a Bugsy Malone party, and that’s just pretty damn cool. This year, the lineup includes Noah and The Whale and new indie sweetheart Lucy Rose, as well as debating halls, family games, and banquets. Perfect if you fancy a bit more than music for your money.
So there you have it! Our top choices for an alternative festival experience this year. Pick one, dust off your tent from last year, and pack those wellies. Whether it’s indie, rock, literature or even just eating you’re into, you’re in for a treat.