There’s something magical about Wychwood Festival – a laid-back, joyful energy that feels like summer bottled up. This year marked our second time attending as a family, and we decided to try something a little different: we let the teens take the lead.
With the Spotify playlist on repeat and the official Wychwood app at their fingertips, our three teenagers planned the entire weekend – from headline acts to hidden gems, food stalls to fringe tents. And honestly? They nailed it.
A Weekend Set to Music
We arrived at VIP camping on Friday afternoon, and before the music even started, the kids were ferrying camping gear and pitching the tent like pros. Once we were settled, their chosen first stop was Daniel Bedingfield, followed by Scouting for Girls – and what a way to kick off the weekend. The sun shone, the crowd was electric, and the atmosphere was pure festival bliss. Both acts had the crowd singing along, and it was such a joy to see the kids swept up in the energy.
The rest of the evening was theirs to plan. After a home-cooked tea at the tent and a quick change into warmer layers, we strolled the stalls, caught the end of Lottery Winners, watched Shed Seven and danced the night away at Beatles Dub Club at Howlin’ Pete’s.
Our musical highlights for Saturday included Hip Hop Karaoke, where ‘Tim Shady‘ stole the show, Public Service Broadcasting and the Saturday headliner, James, who put on an amazing show to rapturous applause.
Trusting Their Instincts
What impressed us most was how chilled and thoughtful their plan was. Each had one or two “must-see” acts a day, and they coordinated the rest around it, ensuring we all had a great experience without running ourselves ragged.
They surprised us, too, not just with their maturity but also with their music choices. Acts like the Bar Steward Sons of Val Doonican (hilarious) and Skinny Lister weren’t on our radar, but the kids insisted we check them out—and they were absolute highlights. They were so taken with both that we met them afterwards!
While I only had one firm request for the weekend (PE with Joe on Saturday morning, which brought back all the lockdown nostalgia), the kids were up for it, too. Watching them laugh, stretch, and throw themselves into it reminded me just how many memories we’ve built together through music and movement.
Lillie and Ollie remembered Lost Voice Guy from our family BGT viewing, so we were delighted when they insisted we go to watch. Lee did not disappoint. The Garden stage was packed out, and the audience spilt out around the sides. He kept us entertained and laughing throughout his entire set.
Activities, Adventure & Churros (Of Course)
Wychwood is about so much more than the music, and our teens made the most of it. The circus skills tent is a Green family favourite – with Lillie showing off her well-honed plate-spinning skills, Ollie attempting (and still failing!) the unicycle, and Albie juggling like a pro.
Lillie and I took some time for a calm screen printing session in the activities tent while the boys got hands-on with Bleephaus music-making with Simon. Later, we all regrouped at the Games tent for some family fun.
And yes, churros may have been consumed more than once – and I won’t apologise for it. The kids loved exploring the food options, while Simon and I enjoyed the odd stop at the Stowford Press bar for a cheeky cider or two.
Real Moments That Mattered
It wasn’t all smooth sailing – at one point during James’ set, Lillie suddenly felt overwhelmed in the crowd near the barrier. Without fuss, she removed herself to the calm of the VIP area, with Simon joining her. They later danced the night away at Howlin’ Pete’s to Shaz Hamm’s DJ set – a lovely father-daughter moment that turned a low point into a memory.
Throughout the weekend, what stood out was how well the kids communicated and planned together. They cared about everyone’s enjoyment, managed time beautifully, and ensured we didn’t miss out on any corner of the festival without making it feel rushed.
Would we let the teens take over again? Absolutely.
We’ve raised them on great music (thanks to our regular kitchen “music education sessions” – aka dance parties to 90s hits and legends of rock) and Wychwood felt like the perfect place to hand over the reins. We left with full hearts, sore feet, and a photo we’ll treasure – snapped just before our final act, Fisherman’s Friends, and bursting with happy, sun-drenched energy.
Speaking about Wychwood Festival 2025, Managing Director Graeme Merifield said:
“What an incredible weekend we’ve had, welcoming so many new and familiar faces to Wychwood Festival for three glorious days of live music, sunshine, and wholesome family fun! This year has truly felt like a landmark for Wychwood, and we’re so grateful to our loyal community for choosing to spend their summer weekend with us at Cheltenham Racecourse – and for bringing more friends and family along each year. I couldn’t be more proud of the hundreds of talented, passionate people who make this event possible, many of whom have been part of our team for the start and stay committed to creating the best possible experience for everyone. We can’t wait to share what we have planned for our 20th anniversary edition in 2026 — and we hope to see you there!”
Wychwood Festival’s return in 2026 is prime to be the go-to date for festival families looking for an essential summer escape – celebrating its 20th edition in emphatic fashion. With prices frozen for the fourth year in a row, the first wave of tickets are available from just £115, with the added option to purchase a Ticket For Life with just a 25% deposit of £28.75. Tickets are available now at:
https://wychwoodfestival.com/2026
[You can see more of our videos and photos over on Mummy Matters Facebook page over the next few days as we upload them]