The Ultimate Guide to Camping at Glastonbury Festival 2024

Glastonbury Festival takes place at Worthy Farm in Somerset, England, and attracts over 175,000 attendees each year.

With so many campsites and areas to stay across the 900-acre grounds, choosing the optimal spot to pitch your tent can be daunting for first-timers.

This comprehensive 4000+ word guide will walk you through everything you need to know to pick the Best Glastonbury Campsite for your crew.

Introduction to Camping at Glastonbury Festival

Held annually in June, Glastonbury Festival transforms the tranquil English countryside into a vibrant tent city housing lively parties, intimate musical discoveries, and even luxury glamping options. The various campsites form temporary villages, each with their own unique atmosphere and identity.

When selecting where to stay, key factors to consider include:

Interests – Do you want to be in the pulsating heart of the action? Or are you seeking a quieter retreat?
Group Size – Are you camping solo, as a couple, family, or large crew? Sites accommodate different group sizes.
Budget – Do you want a basic experience and are willing to rough it? Or can you splurge on lavish tipis or campervans?
Arrival Day – Early entry on Wednesday provides first dibs on premium spots before crowds descend.

This extensive guide will explore the vibe, amenities, pros, and cons of all the main Glastonbury camp areas to help match your crew with the ideal site for an unforgettable festival experience.

MUST READ: “Join The Crew: An In-Depth Guide To Volunteering At Glastonbury 2024“

Breakdown of the Major Glastonbury Campsites

Glastonbury offers an array of campsites scattered across the Worthy Farm landscape. Here’s an in-depth look at the most popular options and their unique atmospheres.

Lively 24/7 Revelry Awaits at Pennard Hill Ground

For those seeking an immersive party atmosphere, Pennard Hill Ground delivers. Spanning 110 acres, it contains different zones catering to various interests:

Hillground – The pumping heart of Pennard Hill is renowned for chaotic nonstop revelry, elaborate DJ stages, and round-the-clock dancing. Come ready to embrace the frenzied energy.
The Park – A newer mellow area focused on community and vibes rather than intensity. The peaceful oak groves here are perfect for families.
Tipi Village – Upgrade to a fully furnished tipi with cozy beds and decor for a luxurious glamping experience.
Campervans – Designated areas for self-contained campervans with hookups for electricity, water, and waste disposal.
Accessible Camping – Areas tailored for people with disabilities, including wider tent spaces, accessible facilities, and golf cart transport.

With facilities like showers, water points, and vendors available, Pennard Hill makes it easy to party from sundown to sunup immersed in the pulsing heart of Glastonbury. Just arrive early to claim prime real estate!

Pennard Hill Ground Camping Tips:

Hillground is the wildest zone – look to The Park or Tipi Village for a calmer experience
Come prepared with good-quality earplugs if you actually want to get some sleep
Embrace the free-spirited party campsite experience but pace yourself – it’s a marathon, not a sprint
Keep valuables locked away and make friends with neighbors
Consider camping along the perimeter for easier access in and out
Weatherproof your tent and peg it securely to withstand potential wind/rain

Worthy View – Convenience Close to Festival Gates

For festival-goers prioritizing easy access over a lively scene, Worthy View is the closest campsite to the festival gates at just over a mile away. Its proximity makes navigating in and out of the grounds much simpler compared to farther-flung sites.

Worthy View tends to have a more low-key, chill vibe focused on rest and recharging vs round-the-clock intensity. The site is divided into different zones:

Worthy View Left/Right – Two huge adjacent camping fields separated by a central path. Worthy View Left is a bit less cramped and noisy.
Worthy View Lower/Upper – Peripheral areas higher up on the sloped hillside overlooking the festival, but with a longer hike down to the action.

With amenities like hot showers, flush toilets, water points, and food/drink stalls, Worthy View makes an ideal base for festival-goers seeking convenience without chaos. Claim your prime real estate early on Wednesday morning when the gates open!

Worthy View Camping Tips:

Arrive first thing Wednesday morning to get the widest choice of premium spots
Come equipped with gear like folding carts to haul luggage from distant car parks
Head to Worthy View Left for a slightly more spacious and peaceful experience
Pitch your tent away from major thoroughfares and footpaths
Watch the weather and consider camping under trees for potential shade/shelter
Use earplugs or sleep masks to block noise, especially near stages or vendors open late

The Park – A Leafy Community Haven

For those seeking a friendly commune vibe, The Park offers a verdant haven away from Pennard Hill’s intensity. Nestled amid ancient oak groves and woodlands, this intimate campsite has a chilled-out, peaceful atmosphere focused on bonding.

Limited to 5,000 attendees, The Park fills up fast with passionate regulars eager to return annually. Facilities like composting loos and mobile showers are purposefully basic to maintain the hippie charm.

Giant trees provide shade, while tents and tipis dot the fields organically. Various intimate “micro-venues” host surprise performances in these natural environs. The stone circle provides a gathering place and campfires encourage sharing stories under the stars.

The Park’s green oasis provides a serene, community-oriented atmosphere that nourishes the soul. Come build bonds and appreciate nature away from the frenzied energy.

The Park Camping Tips:

Arrive 7-8 am on Wednesday at the latest to secure a coveted camping spot before capacity is reached
Bring carts to haul your gear from outer parking areas – no vehicles allowed within The Park
Come prepared with charged devices/batteries – power access here is very limited
Respect the tranquil vibe by keeping noise down, especially at night
Bring enough food/supplies since leaving The Park to restock takes time
Check the schedule for special unannounced performances at its intimate venues

Luxury Glamping Awaits in Tipi Village

For those seeking an indulgent hotel-style experience, Tipi Village provides fully furnished tipis equipped with beds, linens, rugs, and decor ready to move into. These large, intricately painted tipis take the hassle out of camping.

Available tipi sizes range from intimate 2-person options up to spacious 8-person models able to house groups. The communal Tipi Village area contains catered food stalls so you can enjoy hot meals without cooking. There are also hot showers, toilets, and phone charging stations available.

The vibe here is far more luxurious and sheltered compared to basic tent camping. After long days exploring Glastonbury’s dusty festival grounds, it’s a welcome oasis to return to for a comfortable night’s sleep. Come indulge in serious creature comforts!

Tipi Village Camping Tips:

Book your luxury tipi 9-12 months in advance as availability is extremely limited
Prepare to spend more than standard camping – but still much cheaper than local hotels
Bring extra bedding, blankets, and throws to make your temporary abode cozy
Take care of valuables using lockers when away – luxury gear attracts more attention
Check the schedule for special surprise performances within Tipi Village itself

Big Ground – Basic Budget Camping Near Pyramid Stage

For festival-goers on a tight budget looking to immerse themselves in the main action, Big Ground offers affordable tent camping located right in front of the iconic Pyramid Stage. This perennially popular area fills up quickly, so arrive early on Wednesday to stake your claim.

Expect a lively but generally good-natured vibe here as thousands cluster together to camp within earshot of the headliners. Facilities are rudimentary with minimal amenities beyond basic portable toilets and water taps. So come prepared for bare-bones camping if you choose Big Ground.

While not the most convenient location given its distance from the main parking areas, Big Ground remains hallowed ground for devotees seeking that true Glastonbury experience on a budget. Don’t expect peace and quiet, but do anticipate forming bonds with your fellow music lovers as the tent city springs to life.

Big Ground Camping Tips:

Arrive first thing Wednesday morning to get a spot before this high-demand area fills completely
Come equipped for self-sufficiency – amenities here are very sparse
Pack earplugs if you hope to get any sleep when thumping headliners take the stage nearby
Consider budgeting extra time to haul gear from distant car parks – it’s quite a schlep
Chat up your neighbors – you’ll quickly make new friends in this lively communal atmosphere

Cockhill Meadow – Family-Friendly Community Vibes

Cockhill Meadow offers a tailored camping experience for families and groups seeking a communal atmosphere focused more on bonding than partying all night. Located directly across from Big Ground’s budget tent city, Cockhill Meadow forms a friendlier separate village catering to parents, children, and crews seeking good clean fun together.

Unlike some family areas at UK festivals, Cockhill has no required ratio of kids to adults. So friends and families without children are welcome too. Facilities like food stalls and restrooms are better than at Spartan Big Ground. But do take earplugs – proximity to the thumping Pyramid Stage carries sound.

Cockhill Meadow fills up quickly as groups vie for this coveted family-friendly slice of Glastonbury. Arrive Wednesday morning as gates open to secure the choicest camping spots where kids can frolic safely nearby. Then kick back with your crew and enjoy the pleasant community vibe.

Cockhill Meadow Camping Tips:

Arrive early on Wednesday AM before this family-friendly area reaches capacity
Look for camping spots set back from major thoroughfares for more privacy
Come prepared with activities and games to entertain younger kids
Consider earplugs or sound-damping headphones for little ones to sleep
Scout out spots away from electric pylons – their hum can be annoying

Row Mead – Unbeatable Pyramid Stage Access

For devoted music fans determined to camp literally as close as possible to Glastonbury’s hallowed main stage, Row Mead offers an unparalleled (if chaotic) experience. By arriving military-precise when gates open on Wednesday, you can stake tent claim to these cramped fields directly adjacent to the Pyramid’s towering edifice.

This is not for the claustrophobic. Tents and temporary structures are jam-packed cheek-by-jowl as passionate pilgrims maintain a multi-generational tradition of securing highly coveted real estate. Facilities like loos and water taps are overrun given the crowds. But for many, proximity trumps all.

Navigating Row Mead requires Zen-like focus and patience. But plenty of good-natured camaraderie exists between denizens of this teeming tent city. If you possess serious tactical camping skills and don’t mind reveling in sardine-can confines, then this hallowed field delivers the ultimate Pyramid-side experience.

“To quote one sleep-deprived Row Mead camper: ‘This place makes a sardine can look spacious.'”

Row Mead Camping Tips:

Arrive in the dead of night before Wednesday sunrise if you hope for a shot at a spot
Travel light – space constraints mean living out of one small bag
Master orienteering – it’s easy to get lost in this cramped maze of tents merging together
Make friendly with neighbors immediately – you’ll rely on them extensively
Consider earplugs to dampen the nearly overwhelming thumps from the towering stage

Kidney Mead – Lively Central Spot for Convenience

For festival-goers focused on convenience over a specific campsite vibe, Kidney Mead offers a reliably lively alternative located handily near both the action and amenities. Flanked on one side by the iconic Pyramid Stage and the bustling market areas on the other, Kidney Mead sits bundled in the action.

The atmosphere here is more functional than communal, with tents densely crammed along the heavily traversed main drags. But for some that accessibility trumps ambiance. With food stalls, bars, and stages all close by, Kidney Mead is ideally situated for easy back-and-forth access.

Downsides include the extreme busyness both day and night as harried crowds march to and fro. The constant hubbub and lack of privacy could grow wearying after 4 days. But choosing convenience always involves tradeoffs. For these prime perks, bring sound-dampening earwear and secure valuables to weather the tumult.

Kidney Mead Camping Tips:

Come prepared with earplugs and sleep masks if you hope to actually get some rest
Pitch your tent strategically away from major walkways to gain some privacy
Set up camp toward the Mead’s outer edges to avoid high-density tent crowds
Bring collapsible wagons or carts to efficiently haul heavy gear from distant car parks
Keep phones and other valuables secure – busy centralized spots see more theft

Hawkwell – A Hilltop Retreat from the Fray

For festival-goers seeking a more low-key camping experience away from the frenetic energy down below, Hawkwell offers pastoral isolation atop Worthy Farm’s hillside fields. One of the farthest-flung sites, this hilltop respite looks down over the vast tented villages and Pyramid Stage crowds from its towering vantage.

The mellow atmosphere here contrasts the sensory overload of intense areas like Pennard Hill. While the music and light shows can still be enjoyed from on high, you won’t feel engulfed. So those seeking occasional escape amid the marathon 5 days of festivities can regain equilibrium.

Challenges include the tiring uphill climbs to reach Hawkwell’s perch from the main stage grounds. Budget extra transit time and consider hauling gear up via bicycle or utility cart. And facilities here remain sparse given the location. But the transcendent views and chilled vibe make it worth the trek.

“As they say, ‘No pain, no gain’ – and your glutes will be gaining on the hike up to Hawkwell.”

Hawkwell Camping Tips:

Prepare for a long uphill hike from the car parks to the campsite – not ideal for those with mobility issues
Come equipped with gear like folding wagons to transport heavy bags up the steep slope
Consider pitching tents near tree groves to gain shady respite from the hot sun
If sound-sensitive, choose spots facing away from the stage areas to minimize audio leakage
Bring strong flashlights or headlamps – the paths here are less illuminated at night

Michael’s Mead – Another Far-Flung Hilltop Hideaway

Similar to Hawkwell but extending even deeper into Worthy Farm’s vast acreage, Michael’s Mead offers an alternate high-ground campsite removed from the festival fray down below. While the music and energy remain visible in the distance, you can enjoy feeling encircled by nature upon the meadow’s edge.

In addition to panoramic views, one advantage Michael’s Mead holds over Hawkwell is its central location reachable readily from either Gate A or B. But amenities remain sparse given the steep surrounding topography. Make sure to pack sufficient food, water, and supplies.

The vibe here tends to be among the most mellow and welcoming at Glastonbury. With families spread out in the verdant meadows, kids playing games in the winding trails, and groups chuckling around campfires, an easygoing community spirit prevails in this hilltop haven.

Michael’s Mead Camping Tips:

Come prepared to haul your gear up and down the surrounding slopes from parking areas
Consider arriving early to scope out the choicest camping spots before they fill up
Pack high-powered flashlights or lanterns to illuminate pathways and tents
Print out maps and mark key landmarks – it’s easy to get turned around up on the meadows
Bring extra blankets and cold-weather outerwear – temperatures drop more at night on the hills

Spring Ground – A Convenient Camp for Attendees with Disabilities

Glastonbury offers a dedicated campground to accommodate attendees with disabilities and mobility issues. Located within close proximity to festival gates, Spring Ground provides specialized facilities tailored for accessibility.

To qualify, you’ll need to register with the festival far in advance and provide documentation of your requirements. This includes wheelchair/scooter users, limited mobility, visual impairment, and more. Golf cart shuttles offer transport within the campsite area.

Spring Ground’s purpose-built amenities include:

Wide lanes between tents to accommodate wheelchairs
Firm compacted gravel paths to ease navigation
Accessible toilet and shower facilities
Lowered sinks and counters in hygiene blocks
Power outlets to charge mobility scooters
Refrigeration for medications

Make sure to contact the festival as early as possible to discuss your particular needs and reserve one of the limited spots. Then prepare for smooth accessibility and convenience at Spring Ground.

Spring Ground Camping Tips:

Send proof of disability and registration forms early to secure your pass
Thoroughly discuss requirements pre-arrival with the accessibility team
Book adapted tent spaces, mobility carts, and equipment hookups well in advance
Travel to the designated check-in gate Wednesday AM for priority
Come prepared with all essential medications, gear, and health supplies

Cyclist’s Camping – Pedal-Friendly Tent Zone

Glastonbury actively encourages attendees to cycle to the festival, both reducing traffic and benefiting the environment. If arriving on two wheels, you can take advantage of Cyclist’s Camping located adjacent to the designated bike parking areas near the festival gates.

In addition to secure bike lockups and repair tools, Cyclist’s Camping offers:

Reserved grassy camping with only other cycling arrivals
Luggage transfer service from designated drop points
Short walk to festival gates – prime location
Convenient access to showers and amenities
Community of like-minded cycling enthusiasts
Meetup area to connect with other riders

To take advantage of Cyclist’s Camping, you must arrive by bicycle and obtain the proper pass in advance. This provides fast access through specified “Bike Gate” festival entrances.

Cyclist’s Camping Tips:

Obtain your access pass early when they are released to the public
Arrange luggage transfers and scout drop-off/pick-up locations
Pack light with only essentials – you’ll be self-sufficient on your bike
Bring bike tools, spare tubes, lubricants, and repair kits
Consider decorating your ride with strings of lights to show your pedal pride!

Darble – Ideal Arrival Point for Coaches

For attendees traveling to Glastonbury Festival via coach or shuttle bus, Darble offers a conveniently located campsite near the main bus and coach depot. Situated on the west side of the festival site, Darble provides easy access right upon arrival by public transport.

The atmosphere here caters to mellower music fans not looking to camp in the intense SSE Corner zone. With less crowding than central sites, Darble offers relief from the densely packed tent cities elsewhere. The downside is the longer walk required to reach the Pyramid Stage and main areas.

But if you’re willing to budget extra transit time in exchange for a comfortable, uncrowded basecamp, Darble is an ideal choice. Wake up refreshed in the relative calm, then trek out to explore the action.

Darble Camping Tips:

Book coach packages that deliver you directly to the site’s Darble depot
Come self-sufficient with food, water, and supplies so you don’t have to ferry heavy gear far
Consider waking up early to make the 30-45 min walk to the Pyramid Stage before crowds amass
Bike rentals are available onsite – an efficient way to cover ground from here
Link up with other coach-arriving groups to share tips and bond over the journey

Lower Mead – Dive Into The Late Night Festivities

While most festival campsites pulse with energy until dawn, a few zones cater specifically to night owls who plan to immerse themselves in the late-night festivities until sunrise. For these avid after-hour adventurers, Lower Mead offers ideal access to the all-night fun.

Flanked on one side by the iconic stone circle gathering point and the pumping beats of Silver Hayes on the other, Lower Mead sits lodged firmly in the action. The atmosphere here is lively and buzzing 24/7. Facilities like food stalls and loos stay active overnight to serve party-goers.

The nonstop stimulation can prove tiring for some. But devotees seeking the full Glastonbury experience know Lower Mead is the ultimate hub for losing yourself in the vibrant wonderland until the early morning light. Don’t expect much serenity, but do anticipate bonding with fellow lunar enthusiasts.

Lower Mead Camping Tips:

Come prepared to keep your energy up all night with snacks, hydration supplements, backup chargers, etc.
Bring high-quality earplugs in case you need some muffled silence amid the constant beats
Keep valuables secured – lively camps draw opportunists ready to capitalize
Check the schedule religiously and make plans with your crew to catch your favorite acts
Make new friends! These party tents attract the most outgoing, friendly festival-goers

Pylon Ground – A Camp Reserved For Crew

Behind the scenes, it takes thousands of vendors, crews, and operational staff to execute the monumental logistics required to put on the Glastonbury Festival each year. These unsung heroes gain access to a dedicated camping area for their essential staff: Pylon Ground.

Located northeast of the Park Stage, Pylon Ground offers a functional basecamp to bed down the army of crews who build this temporary village. With limited time to enjoy the festivities, crews utilize Pylon Ground’s proximity to stay within striking distance of their tasks.

Pylon Ground contains all the standard amenities like loos, showers, water taps, and charging stations. But don’t expect leisurely vibes – Pylon Ground serves as the barracks for crews working to keep the festival’s infrastructure humming. Access is restricted only to registered staff approved to stay onsite.

Pylon Ground Camping Tips:

To gain access to Pylon Ground, you must apply to register as vendor staff with the festival
Come prepared with your own tent and basic living supplies – amenities are limited
Consider packing earplugs to deal with generator and equipment noise that can occur
Link up with your team ahead of time to coordinate meetups and work shifts
Pack lightly and efficiently to maximize room within your compact tent space

Rivermead – Scenic Waterside Camping Spot

Nestled alongside the Whitelake River that gently flows through the Worthy Farm grounds, Rivermead offers a scenic waterside camping experience for those seeking more seclusion. Located south of the bustling Pylon Ground site, only a limited number of tents can fit within Rivermead’s lush confines.

The natural splendor here contrasts the dusty campsites packed cheek-by-jowl across much of the landscape. But appreciate Rivermead’s relative remoteness. With the nearest Festival gates and the Park Stage a solid 30-minute hike away, come prepared to budget extra transit time or consider bicycles.

When choosing your pitch, take care not to encroach upon the protected riverbank habitats. Festival authorities strictly enforce environmental rules banning camping within the verdant waterside zones marked by signage. Otherwise, you’re free to bask in this tranquil hideaway.

Rivermead Camping Tips:

Come equipped with supplies like folding carts to haul gear from parking areas
Pack fisherman’s wading boots or sandals to comfortably traverse the streams
Wake up early to appreciate the sun rising over the pastoral waterways
Follow all posted guidance to avoid accidentally harming river ecology
Link up with other nature lovers who also value low-impact camping

Bushy Ground – A Remote Camp Removed from Action

One of the most remote and isolated camping grounds, Bushy Ground offers sanctuary for fest-goers explicitly seeking to detach from the frenzied festival ambiance elsewhere. Located past Park Farm behind the stone wall boundary, this vast stretch of old orchard land has room to ramble and lose the crowds.

Access involves a 20-25 minute walk along the perimeter track to reach festival grounds, so come prepared to trek. But if you have no interest in camping amid the chaotic Pennard Hill energy and are content in your own tranquil world, Bushy Ground’s seclusion beckons.

With space to breathe, bonding with your crew takes priority over constant stimulation. Known as a site for long-term regulars and groups of friends, you can focus fully on each other before venturing out to sample the festival’s delights by day.

Bushy Ground Camping Tips:

Come prepared with everything you’ll need so you don’t have to ferry heavy supplies from outside
Consider packing bicycles to reduce the longer transit times to and from the grounds
Link up ahead of time with other groups also camping here to share tips and bond
Mark your tent location on maps and with-flagging so you can easily find your camp each night
Value the scenic countryside – this is among the most beautiful camping zones

Oxlyers – Party Central Next to Iconic Stages

While most Glastonbury campsites have pockets with a party vibe, Oxlyers stands alone as the premier destination for unapologetic night owls seeking round-the-clock entertainment. Located adjacent to both the Other Stage and Pyramid Stage, Oxlyers sits lodged firmly in the action.

The atmosphere is lively and buzzing 24/7 with like-minded revelers. Hefty sound systems pipe beats across the fields. And impromptu gatherings form everywhere fueled by unbridled energy. But do expect crowded tent conditions given Oxlyer’s popularity.

Facilities like food stalls and loos stay active overnight to serve party-goers. With nonstop stimulation, days and nights blend together. If you seek a friendly, free-spirited Shangri-La vibe without trekking clear across the site, Oxlyers is the ultimate party haven.

Oxlyers Camping Tips:

Come prepared to keep your energy up all night with snacks, hydration supplements, backup chargers, etc.
Pack high-quality earplugs in case you need some muffled silence amid the constant beats
Keep valuables secured – lively camps draw opportunists ready to capitalize
Check the schedule religiously and make plans with your crew to catch your favorite acts
Make new friends! These party tents attract the most outgoing, friendly festival-goers

Dairy Ground – A Reliable Spot For Late Arrivals

As the days tick by each June, more and more fields across Glastonbury’s vast landscape fill with tents staking their claim. By Friday, many campsites overflow beyond capacity. But Dairy Ground reliably retains some availability even for late arrivals.

Located adjacent to Gate D in the southwestern corner, Dairy Ground catches less early foot traffic. And with space to accommodate thousands, this remains one of the last sizeable empty zones for those showing up mid-week.

The tradeoff comes in less convenience. Dairy Ground sits far from main attractions like the Pyramid Stage. But if you prioritize just securing some patch of grass to occupy over location, Dairy Ground serves you well. With patience and preparation, you can still immerse yourself in the magic.

Dairy Ground Camping Tips:

If arriving Thursday or Friday, head straight to Dairy Ground by Gate D to secure an open spot
Come equipped with foldable wagons, carts, or wheelbarrows to offset the longer walks
Don’t linger too long before entering – even Dairy Ground fills up by Friday night
Lower your expectations – part of the pristine fields may already be trampled
Once settled in, scope out the schedule and transportation options to plan your attack

Park Home Ground – Dive Into The Arcadia Action

While the Pyramid Stage draws huge crowds as Glastonbury’s main focal point, serious festival fans know the pumping nightlife centers around Arcadia’s epic mechanical sculptures. This lavish stage comes alive after dark, with spectacular lighting, pyrotechnics and DJ beats propelling the party into overdrive.

For those seeking an immersion in Arcadia’s energy, Park Home Ground offers sought-after camping right beside the action. With easy access to enter the fray until sunrise, Park Home Ground sits lodged amid the magical chaos.

Naturally, sleeping here is futile with the seismic bass rattling tents and revelers trafficking all night. But gaining this prime real estate to call home before venturing out nightly carries huge advantages if you have FOMO.

“A wise Park Home Ground veteran once said: ‘Sleep? We don’t need no stinkin’ sleep!'”

Park Home Ground Camping Tips:

Come prepared with earplugs, sleep masks, etc. so you can grab some rest during quiet hours
Time your arrival early Wednesday to secure a spot – location beside Arcadia is coveted
Pack light – you won’t be hanging around your tent much except to crash
Hydrate constantly and take electrolytes to keep your energy up all night
Embrace the madness and make new friends. Arcadia attracts awesome people!

Back House – Find Space In This Hidden Corner

As tents multiply and vast fields reach capacity over Glastonbury’s first days, some out-of-the-way pockets manage to remain relatively under the radar. Back House stands among them. Tucked deep in the southwest corner, this patch of pastoral farmland flies under the radar.

With its remote location far from heavily trafficked routes, Back House retains empty spaces long after other high-demand zones overflow. But appreciate its isolation. You’ll face longer walks to reach festival gates and convenient amenities from here.

If you don’t mind hiking and focus more on claiming a patch of grass with your crew over location, Back House serves you well. Once secured, you can better map routes and schedule transit times to catch the music and magic. Expect basic facilities and artistic freedom in this hidden gem.

Back House Camping Tips:

Prepare to carry your gear a long distance from check-in to your campsite pitch
Come equipped with a bike or collapsible wagon to offset the lengthy walks
Get to know others camping here and share insights on best walks/shortcuts
For privacy, pitch tents away from the main drags – there’s ample room to spread out
Mark your camp location well with flags, signs, or lights to find your way home

Baileys – An Ultra Remote Nook

As the most obscure corner of Worthy Farm is accessible to standard camping, Baileys offers extreme seclusion for those only content fully detached from the stimulation and crowds. Located past Back House deep in the lower southwest fields, only self-sufficient survivalists comfortable in their own company occupy Baileys.

With sparse facilities, scarce food vendors, and only basic portable loos, you live off the land here. But wild camping devotees find the lack of frills liberating. Without constant interference, you focus on bonding with your crew and seeking out the festival’s delights by day at your own pace.

Just come prepared, as help and resources are distant. And be ready to traverse Glastonbury’s sprawling landscape by bicycle or foot. The remote pleasure comes at the cost of lengthy transit everywhere. But for some, that bargain brings bliss.

Baileys Camping Tips:

Come prepared as completely self-reliant – food, water, shelter and first aid
Plot routes and schedule generous transit times to reach key festival areas
Consider packing bicycles or arranging rides to reduce long walks
Link up with other serious campers here to exchange tips and build community
Appreciate the quiet stillness – Baileys offers sanctuary from sensory overload

Pennard Hill Ground – The Heart of Glastonbury Chaos

While most Glastonbury campsites pulse with energy until dawn, Pennard Hill Ground remains legendary as the pumping heart and soul of utter madness. Across 110 acres, Pennard contains different zones each catering to a niche. But at its core, this hallowed ground stays wild awake.

The most famous area, Hillground, is renowned for raucous nonstop parties and thumping beats. With elaborate DJ stages, funky art cars, and pop-up raves, expect Hillground’s chaotic energy to envelop you 24/7. This is where the legendary Somerset spirit of old-school Glasto still lives strong.

Surrounding zones offer calmer alternatives. But Pennard Hill largely attracts fest-goers seeking total immersion in the lunacy. Come ready to embrace the free-spirited energy and prepare for the unexpected. With fire in its heart and unbridled creative madness in its soul, Pennard Hill represents Glastonbury’s id unleashed.

Pennard Hill Ground Camping Tips:

Hillground is the wildest zone – look to The Park or Tipi Village for a calmer experience
Come prepared with good-quality earplugs if you actually want to get some sleep
Embrace the party campsite experience but pace yourself – it’s a marathon, not a sprint
Keep valuables locked away and make friends with neighbors
Consider camping along the perimeter for easier access in and out
Weatherproof your tent and stake it securely to withstand potential wind/rain

Paines Ground – Pilgrimage Site for Revelry & Release

Neighboring Pennard Hill Ground, Paines Ground shares a similar energy venerating the mystical power of unbridled creativity and primal release. Since the Enchanted Gardens zone opened in Paines Ground in 2002, this hallowed campsite fuels the late-night revelry spilling over from its hyperactive neighbor.

The atmosphere here contrasts the mellow daytime vibe across much of Glastonbury’s family-friendly areas. When the sun dips below the horizon, Paines Ground truly comes alive. Costumed performers flow in from all corners to join the sustained communal experience of dance and liberation unfolding hypnotically across the fields each night.

For devoted after-hour adventurers who plan to immerse in the late-night festivities until sunrise, Paines Ground offers ideal access to the all-night fun. Just arrive early to claim prime real estate in this coveted zone.

Paines Ground Camping Tips:

Arrive first thing Wednesday AM to secure the choicest parcels of Paines paradise
Stock up on portable chargers, snacks, hydration salts, and fuel to keep energized all night
Make friends with your neighbors – you’ll rely on watching each other’s camps
Mark your tents with LEDs and flagging for easy identification after long nights
Embrace the madness and make new friends! Paines attract awesome people.

Rig’s Field – Intimate Vibes In This Secluded Spot

For a relatively peaceful camping experience, Rig’s Field offers sanctuary a short distance removed from Glastonbury’s raging epicenters. Nestled adjacent to Campervans West, this modest patch of greenery remains comparatively serene.

The mellow atmosphere results partly from necessity. Rig’s Field can only accommodate a limited number of tents within its confines. You won’t find sprawling camp cities or districts of districts here. Just a cozy community basking in the verdant vibes.

Music still permeates the air as Rig’s Field is not remote by any means. But you can sleep easier here and find more intimacy. Take time to connect with fellow nature lovers as you prepare to sample Glastonbury’s endless delights.

Rig’s Field Camping Tips:

Arrive early Wednesday AM to secure a spot in this coveted intimate sanctuary
Consider camping toward the edges for a quieter experience away from foot traffic
Link up with like-minded groups who value chilling in the nature vibes
Pack supplies for relaxing leisure – books, acoustic guitar, Frisbees, etc.
Take time to appreciate the rare serenity before diving into the manic energy elsewhere

South Park 1 – A Scenic Spot For Solace

Seeking expansive open space and gorgeous grounds over convenience? Make your way to South Park 1. This sprawling Southwestern corner of Worthy Farm rolls with pastoral hills, wildflowers, and meandering trails perfect for bonding with your crew before braving the bustling festival proper.

With room to breathe, South Park 1 offers sanctuary from the sensory overload of intense areas like Pennard Hill. Music still drifts on the wind. But here, nature takes priority over constant stimulation.

Watch the sunset over the iconographic Pyramid Stage in the distance, with the sounds of new friends laughing nearby. Then prepare to follow the path to whichever stage calls your name when the sun rises again over utopia.

South Park 1 Camping Tips:

Come self-sufficient with food, water, and basics so you don’t have to haul supplies across the site
Prepare for extended walks – South Park 1 is quite remote from gates and stages
Consider waking up early to catch the sunrise – the views from camp are stunning
Appreciate the gorgeous countryside – it’s a luxury many miss
Make new friends and build community among your fellow seclusion-seekers

South Park 2 – The Farthest-Flung Tent Fields

For those explicitly seeking detachment from civilization, South Park 2 represents the farthest extreme of Glastonbury’s sprawling campsites. Occupying Worthy Farm’s southernmost fields, this lonely corner stands removed from all but the most adventurous attendees.

The only tents you’ll rub elbows with here are fellow isolation-seekers content to trade convenience for countryside calm. Music wafts faintly on the breeze from distant stages. But little else imposes on the idyllic atmosphere.

Be ready to commit once settled in South Park 2. The extended hike even to reach basic amenities can take 30-60 minutes one-way. But devotees gladly accept the journey for the privilege of camping on hallowed ground so far off the beaten track.

Just arrive ultra-prepared. With sparse facilities and support, you live off the land down here. Then appreciate each moment before following the trails to join the communal experience.

“If you camp here, be sure to give a trusted friend your coordinates in case you disappear into the wilderness like the legendary Blair Witch.”

South Park 2 Camping Tips:

Come equipped with camping essentials – water, food, first aid, etc. Limited resources exist out here
Pack ultra-durable shoes or boots to hike long distances over variable terrain
Consider waking at dawn to appreciate stunning daybreak vistas across Worthy Farm
Coordinate meetups with a flag marking your camp since giving directions proves difficult
Make friends with fellow devotees who also value the remoteness – you’ll rely on each other

The Best Campsites for Families at Glastonbury

Attending Glastonbury as a family brings added considerations. Beyond usual camping tips, here are some family-friendly campsites to consider:

Worthy View – Close to gates/amenities and mellower overnight make this a popular family option. Just arrive early to get the best-located plots.

Cockhill Meadow – Reserved for family camping. Better facilities than many areas but avoid pylons. Arrive early to secure a spot.

Wicket Ground – Another dedicated family camping zone surrounded by fences for safety. A bit farther out but secure.

The Park – Peaceful wooded area with a community hippie vibe. Great for families seeking chill space.

Cyclist Camping – Secure plots for traveling families arriving by bicycle. Shorter walks to the gates.

Campervans – Self-contained campers allow comfort/amenities when traveling with kids. Book your pass early.

Camping Tips for Solo Attendees

Navigating Glastonbury alone? Here are some top tips for an enjoyable solo experience:

Choose a more social campsite like Worthy View where it’s easy to make new friends
Link up with other solo attendees online beforehand to meet up on-site
Bond with your neighbors – introduce yourself and exchange info
Join campfire jam sessions and group activities around the site
Leave your schedule flexible – you may find new people to explore with
Check schedules and map transit times needed to get around
Carry valuables on you safely when moving between campsite and grounds
Pack earplugs and sleeping masks in case your area gets noisy at night
Come prepared with all camping essentials – don’t rely on sharing with others
Embrace spontaneity – around every corner awaits a new surprise adventure

Top Camping Tips For Large Groups

Navigating Glastonbury with a large group? Use these pro tips:

Arrive together early on Wednesday before prime areas fill up
Get matching camp flags/markers so you can easily spot each other
Have a central “rendezvous tent” as a meetup point
Share supplies like cooking gear to save packing space
Use a group chat to coordinate meetups and share schedules/tips
Take a site map and mark where everyone is camping
Split up if needed between adjacent campsites to secure enough space
Pick strategic camping areas central to your must-see acts
Add glowsticks and lights to mark tent rows for easier navigation
Assign items like first aid kits, stoves, and tools to individuals rather than duplicating
Check with your crew often to ensure nobody gets left behind or lost

Packing Recommendations for Glastonbury Camping

Packing wisely is key to smooth camping at Glastonbury. Here are the top items to include:

Tents & Shelter – Durable, weatherproof tents. Rain covers and tarp flooring. Sleeping bags are suitable for cold nights. Foam roll mats for cushioning and insulation. Emergency blankets for warmth. Pop-up tents for social areas. Lockboxes to secure valuables.

Clothing Layers – Waterproof jackets and pants. Wellies. Lightweight socks. Wicking athletic wear like shirts and shorts to prevent moisture buildup. Outer insulating layers like hoodies or pants for nighttime chill. Wide-brimmed hats. Bandanas.

Footwear – Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots or supportive sneakers. Blister prevention is key with so much walking. Also, pack sandals for airing out your feet.

“Marie Kondo advises we only keep items that ‘spark joy.’ Your camping gear will spark everything but joy after hauling it for miles.”

Health & Hygiene – Hand wipes and sanitizer. Biodegradable soap. Toilet paper. Sunscreen and lip balm with UV protection. Insect repellent. Prescription medications. OTC pain relievers. Bandages and first aid.

Cooking & Water – Reusable water bottles, and hydration salts. Portable cookstoves, fuel, pots. Utensils and mess kits. Wastewater bags. Cups, plates, and cutlery. Food prep gloves. Matches/lighters. Camp sink for washing. Biodegradable soap.

Power & Lighting – Portable phone chargers. Global power plug adapters. Flashlights. Headlamps. Lanterns. Extra batteries. Glowsticks. String lighting.

Navigation & Communication – Printed camping area maps. What3Words app. Walkie talkies. GPS apps like maps.me that work offline.

Activities & Relaxation – Portable chairs. Yoga mats. Games, cards, books. Bluetooth speaker. Snacks and drinks. Costumes. Instruments like guitars. Sketchpads, chalk. Balls, Frisbees. Locks and bins to secure larger items when away.

Conclusion: Crafting Your Perfect Glastonbury Experience

With endless campsites scattered across 900 acres, carefully choose your plot to match your crew’s size, interests, and style. This guide provides everything you need to select the ideal Glastonbury home base. Stay tuned for more tips on packing, travel logistics, navigating the grounds, and crafting an unforgettable weekend.

Glastonbury presents a choose-your-own-adventure paradise – follow what calls! Embrace spontaneity and go with the flow. Catch sets that inspire you, discover new bands, wander the Green Fields, and soak up the communal creative energy that makes Glastonbury legendary. Your epic journey awaits!