The Ultimate Glastonbury Festival Road Trip Guide: How to Get There, Camp, and Make the Most of the UK’s Biggest Music Event

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    If you love live music and gigs you should attend the Glastonbury festival at least once. To make it even easier for you, we have listed all the info you need to get the most out of it.

    Why Glastonbury Festival Should Be on Your Bucket List

    The Glastonbury Festival is the biggest and most iconic music festival in the UK. What started in the 1970s as a free hippie gathering at Worthy Farm near Shepton Mallet has grown into a world-renowned event, attracting over 200,000 visitors each year with its impressive international line-up. If you love live music and unforgettable experiences, attending Glastonbury at least once is a must. Below, you’ll find everything you need to plan your trip, whether you’re driving, carpooling, or rolling in with a campervan.

    Glastonbury crowd
    Crowd at Glastonbury | Photo: Neal Whitehouse Piper – CC BY-SA 2.0

    How to Get to Glastonbury Festival

    Glastonbury Festival is just a three-hour drive from London, making it easily accessible for road trippers. However, with thousands of festival-goers hitting the road, planning your route and leaving early is essential to avoid traffic.

    Driving Routes to Glastonbury Festival

    • From London: M3, then A303, and finally A37. (Sat Nav: TA11 7DP)
    • From the North East: A1 or M1, then M25 to M3 (Junction 12), followed by A303 and A37. (Sat Nav: TA11 7DP)
    • From the Midlands: M40 and A34 to A303, then A37. (Sat Nav: TA11 7DP)
    • From the North West: M6, M5 to A39 (Junction 23), then A361. (Sat Nav: BA6 9XE)
    • From Wales: M4, M5 to A39 (as above). (Sat Nav: BA6 9XE)
    • Local traffic: Use A37 North or A361 East. (Sat Nav: BA4 4LY

    Campervan or Car Hire for Glastonbury Festival

    Travelling to Glastonbury in a campervan or motorhome is one of the best ways to experience the festival. You’ll have a comfortable place to sleep, storage for your belongings, and the freedom to explore at your own pace. If you’re hiring a campervan, book early—vehicles sell out fast!

    Rideshare or Carpool to the Festival

    If you have extra seats in your vehicle, consider offering rides to fellow festival-goers. Websites like GoCarShare or Liftshare are great for connecting with people who need a lift. Sharing the journey not only splits costs but also makes the trip more fun.

    Beating the Traffic

    The key to avoiding Glastonbury traffic is to arrive early. Festival gates open from midday the day before the event starts. By the final afternoon, the blue route becomes one-way, and no vehicles can access the campervan fields during this time.

    Plan your journey in advance and stay updated on traffic conditions by tuning into local radio stations like Worthy FM (87.7 FM).

    Glastonbury stage at night

    Camping at Glastonbury Festival: Campervan Tickets and Designated Areas

    If you’re bringing a campervan, you’ll need to purchase a campervan ticket in advance from official festival outlets. Your ticket will specify a routing color, either blue (east side, via Pylle Road) or red (west side, via A361)—which determines your designated camping area. Stewards will direct you upon arrival, so keep your ticket handy.

    For those driving a car, a car park pass is required. Remember, sleeping or camping in the car parks is not allowed.

    Glastonbury Camping Tips

    Once you’ve set up camp, it’s time to relax and enjoy the festival. Here are some essential tips:

    • Respect Space: Avoid roping or taping off your area. Set up your awning and chairs, but be mindful of your neighbors.
    • Power: There’s no electricity for campervans on-site, so rely on your vehicle’s battery system.
    • Facilities: Limited facilities are available near the Kidz Field and Greenpeace Field. Pack baby wipes and other essentials to avoid long queues.
    • Food: Save money by cooking your own meals. Stock up on groceries before arriving to avoid pricey festival food stalls.
    • Medical Help: A medical center is located near the farmhouse at the top of the site. Keep a first aid kit in your vehicle, just in case.

    Camping with Friends

    Glastonbury is a fantastic experience to share with friends. If you’re travelling in a group, coordinate your arrival at least 5 miles from the site to avoid traffic chaos. Once inside, use the festival’s designated meeting points to reconnect—avoid busy areas like the main stages.

    Information posts are open 24/7 and provide updates, maps, and the Glastonbury Press newspaper, which is packed with event details.

    Why Choose a Campervan for Glastonbury?

    Camping in a campervan or motorhome offers unmatched comfort and convenience:

    • No Tent Hassles: No risk of your tent blowing away or getting soaked in the rain.
    • Secure Storage: Keep your belongings safe and dry.
    • Onboard Amenities: Some motorhomes come with showers and toilets, so you can skip the long queues for festival facilities.
    • Easy to Spot: Your campervan will stand out, making it easy to find after a long day of music and fun.

    Final Tips for an Unforgettable Glastonbury Experience

    • Arrive Early: Secure the best camping spot and beat the crowds.
    • Stay Informed: Grab a copy of the Glastonbury Press for schedules and updates.
    • Be Prepared: Pack for all weather—Glastonbury is famous for its mud!
    • Connect with Fellow Campers: Strike up conversations with neighbors and share festival stories.

    Glastonbury Festival is more than just a music event, it’s an adventure. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned attendee, travelling by campervan adds an extra layer of freedom and fun to the experience. Start planning your road trip today and get ready for the time of your life!

    Have you been to Glastonbury before? Share your tips and favorite memories in the comments!

    Meet Mike, a vibrant member of the Spaceships marketing crew, who draws his inspiration from the sea breeze. Always found near coastal areas around the globe, Mike harnesses the power of the ocean to craft amazing content about travelling the world.

    From road trips to bike adventures, Mike is always on the move, exploring new places and capturing the essence of his journeys. His passion for discovery and his knack for storytelling make his travel narratives truly captivating.

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