Glastonbury Travel Tips: A Complete Guide for Festival-Goers

Glastonbury Festival is one of the most iconic music and arts events in the world, drawing tens of thousands of people annually to the rolling fields of Somerset, England. With its rich history, expansive lineup, and unforgettable experiences, it’s no surprise that this festival remains a top destination for music lovers and adventurers alike. However, attending Glastonbury can be a logistical challenge, especially if you’re new to festival life.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned festival-goer, ensuring a smooth trip to Glastonbury takes careful planning and preparation. In this guide, we’ll dive into practical Glastonbury travel tips, covering everything from transportation and accommodation to packing essentials and festival survival strategies.

The Magic of Glastonbury Festival

Glastonbury is more than just a music festival; it’s a cultural phenomenon. With a sprawling 900-acre site, the festival hosts performances from hundreds of acts across multiple stages, with genres ranging from rock and indie to electronic and world music. The festival also features theatre, circus acts, art installations, and environmental workshops, giving it a unique vibe that attracts a diverse audience. While the magic of Glastonbury is undeniable, it can also be overwhelming. Planning ahead can help you make the most of your time while avoiding common pitfalls.

Packing Essentials for Glastonbury

When packing for Glastonbury, it’s crucial to strike the right balance between necessity and practicality. Overpacking can lead to discomfort, while underpacking may leave you unprepared for the unpredictable weather and long days. Here’s a comprehensive list of essentials to bring along:

Tent and Sleeping Gear: Choose a sturdy, waterproof tent that’s easy to assemble. Bring a sleeping bag suitable for cooler nights, a foam mat or inflatable mattress, and a small pillow for comfort.
Festival Clothing: Layering is key at Glastonbury due to the unpredictable British weather. Pack lightweight, breathable clothes for warm days, along with waterproof jackets, wellies, and warm clothes for the evenings.
Backpack or Day Bag: A sturdy, comfortable bag to carry daily essentials like sunscreen, water, snacks, a portable phone charger, and a map of the festival.
Toiletries: Dry shampoo, wet wipes, deodorant, and biodegradable soap are lifesavers when camping at Glastonbury. Don’t forget toilet paper, as festival loos often run out!
First Aid Kit: Basic first aid supplies, such as plasters, painkillers, antiseptic wipes, and any prescription medication you may need.

Transport to Glastonbury: Getting There Safely

Getting to Glastonbury can be an adventure in itself, with various transportation options available depending on your location and budget.

Car: Driving to Glastonbury is one of the most convenient options, especially if you’re bringing a lot of gear. However, parking can be expensive, and traffic is notorious around the festival. Be sure to plan for delays and arrive early to secure a good camping spot.
Coach: National Express and other coach companies offer direct services to the festival site from cities across the UK. Coaches are a popular choice as they drop you off close to the entrance and reduce the hassle of navigating traffic.
Train: Castle Cary is the nearest train station to Glastonbury, with shuttle buses running regularly between the station and the festival site. Trains can get very busy, so it’s advisable to book tickets early and allow extra time for connections.
Car Sharing: If you’re environmentally conscious or just looking to cut costs, carpooling is a great option. Websites like Liftshare connect festival-goers who have space in their cars with those in need of a ride.
Cycling: For the eco-friendly and adventurous, cycling to Glastonbury is becoming increasingly popular. Bike racks are available on-site, and some dedicated cycling routes can get you to the festival while avoiding traffic.

Choosing the Right Accommodation

Camping is the most authentic way to experience Glastonbury, but it’s not the only option. Depending on your preferences, you can opt for a variety of accommodation types:

Standard Camping: The majority of festival-goers camp in the general camping areas. These are first-come, first-served, so arriving early gives you the best chance of finding a prime spot. Choose a location close enough to the action but far enough from the main stages to get some rest.
Glamping: If you’re looking for a more luxurious experience, Glastonbury offers glamping options, which include pre-pitched tents, yurts, and teepees. These come with added comforts such as proper beds, electricity, and access to better toilet and shower facilities.
Off-site Accommodation: If camping isn’t your thing, there are several hotels, B&Bs, and Airbnb options in the surrounding towns and villages. Many offer shuttle services to and from the festival, but book early as these fill up quickly.
Campervans: For those with a campervan or motorhome, Glastonbury provides dedicated campervan fields. This offers more privacy and comfort but comes with an additional cost and limited availability.

Staying Safe at Glastonbury

Amidst the excitement and crowds, safety is crucial at Glastonbury. Here are some key tips to keep yourself and your belongings safe:

Stay Hydrated: With all the dancing and walking, it’s easy to become dehydrated, especially in hot weather. Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it at the many water points across the site.
Sun Protection: Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential to protect against sunburn. Remember that even on cloudy days, UV rays can cause skin damage.
Secure Your Belongings: Use a padlock for your tent and store valuables in a money belt or bum bag. Avoid leaving expensive items like electronics unattended in your tent.
Meet-up Points: With the sheer size of the festival, it’s easy to get separated from friends. Arrange meet-up points in case your phones die or you lose signal.
Take Breaks: The festival can be overwhelming, with non-stop music, activities, and crowds. It’s essential to take breaks, rest, and pace yourself to avoid burnout.

Navigating the Festival Grounds

With over 200,000 people attending, the Glastonbury site can be tricky to navigate. Here’s how to get around efficiently:

Download the Festival App: Glastonbury’s official app provides live updates on set times, maps, and other essential information to help you plan your day.
Bring a Map: While the app is handy, having a physical map is also useful in case your phone runs out of battery.
Landmarks: Use landmarks like the Pyramid Stage or the Glastonbury Sign to orient yourself. Take note of where your tent is pitched in relation to key features to avoid getting lost.
Use the “Slow Paths”: During peak times, the main thoroughfares can become congested. Opt for lesser-known paths and shortcuts to get around more quickly.

Must-See Areas at Glastonbury

Glastonbury is famous for its eclectic mix of stages and areas, each offering something unique. While the Pyramid Stage hosts the biggest names, don’t miss out on the lesser-known corners of the festival:

The Park: A colorful, creative area filled with art installations, secret gigs, and hidden stages. Climb the viewing tower for stunning views of the festival grounds.
Shangri-La: Known for its immersive, dystopian atmosphere, Shangri-La is home to some of the wildest late-night parties at Glastonbury.
The Glade: If electronic music is your thing, The Glade is a must-visit. With a relaxed vibe during the day and pumping beats at night, it’s a favorite among dance music lovers.
Green Fields: For a quieter, more reflective experience, head to the Green Fields, where you’ll find workshops on sustainability, healing areas, and peaceful gardens.

Dont forget your Festival Packing Checklist: Essential Gear for Your Next Festival Adventure

Weather-Proofing Your Glastonbury Experience

The unpredictable British weather means you need to be prepared for anything, from scorching sun to torrential rain. Here’s how to weather-proof your Glastonbury experience:

Wet Weather Gear: Bring a quality waterproof jacket and wellies, as mud is a common feature at Glastonbury. Ponchos can also be a lifesaver when rain suddenly hits.
Stay Warm at Night: Temperatures can drop significantly after sunset, so pack warm layers, including hats and gloves, for nighttime.
Sun Protection: Even if the forecast predicts rain, pack sunscreen and sunglasses. The weather can change rapidly, and sunburn is common when people forget to reapply sunscreen.

Festival Etiquette: Respecting the Glastonbury Spirit

Glastonbury prides itself on its sense of community and sustainability. Follow these tips to contribute positively to the festival atmosphere:

Respect the Environment: Glastonbury has a strong focus on reducing its environmental impact. Use the recycling points provided, take your tent home, and avoid single-use plastics where possible.
Be Considerate of Others: With so many people on-site, it’s important to be mindful of personal space and noise levels, especially in camping areas.
Volunteer: If you’re looking to give back, consider volunteering at Glastonbury. Various organizations, from Oxfam to WaterAid, recruit volunteers to help with everything from litter-picking to stewarding.

Glastonbury Travel Tips

When it comes to traveling to Glastonbury, planning ahead can make a world of difference. Whether you’re driving or taking public transport, leave plenty of time for your journey. The roads around the festival can become congested, especially on arrival and departure days. Be prepared for long queues at the gates and carry snacks and water to keep you going.

If you’re arriving by public transport, consider booking an extra night of accommodation either before or after the festival. This will give you time to rest and recharge, avoiding the crowds during peak travel times.

FAQs

What should I pack for Glastonbury?

Pack a waterproof tent, sleeping bag, festival clothing, and essentials like sunscreen, wellies, and a portable phone charger. Don’t forget toiletries like wet wipes and dry shampoo.

Is it worth glamping at Glastonbury?

Glamping offers extra comfort, with pre-pitched tents and access to better facilities. It’s more expensive but worth it if you prefer a more relaxed experience.

How can I stay safe at the festival?

Stay hydrated, protect yourself from the sun, and secure your belongings. Set up meeting points with friends in case you get separated.

What’s the best way to get to Glastonbury?

Driving, coach, and train are popular options. Car sharing and cycling are also eco-friendly alternatives.

Can I bring alcohol to Glastonbury?

Yes, you can bring your own alcohol, but glass bottles are not allowed. Stick to cans and plastic containers to avoid confiscation.

How do I avoid getting lost at Glastonbury?

Download the festival app, bring a map, and use landmarks like the Pyramid Stage to orient yourself. Mark your tent’s location and arrange meeting points with friends.

Conclusion

Attending Glastonbury Festival is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but it requires careful preparation to ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable time. By following these travel tips, packing the right gear, and navigating the festival grounds efficiently, you can make the most of your Glastonbury adventure. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned festival-goer, the magic of Glastonbury awaits – all that’s left is to dive in and enjoy the ride!