Shade Shack's guide to UK festivals in 2019
A little warm weather does wonders for a positive mindset, and as we head into spring, it’s time to grab your sunnies and start planning which festivals to book. There are plenty to choose from, but why not add a little environmentalism into the mix?
As a company that seeks to promote responsible practices wherever possible, we’ve compiled our Top 5 UK festivals with an eco-friendly edge. Take a look below and see which ones are perfect for a short but sustainable break for you.
Wood Festival
When: 17-19 May 2019
Where: Oxfordshire
Having won the maximum four-star accreditation from A Greener Festival, Wood Festival is a leading eco event that brings camping, music, craft workshops and child-friendly events altogether over one jam-packed weekend. There are more than 60 workshops to take part in, covering everything from holistic hand massage through to bicycle maintenance and notebook binding, so there’s something new for everyone to try.
The food and drink offerings at Wood Festival are fantastic and cater for all dietary requirements. Gluten-free treats, vegan goodness and everything else you could want can be found here, freshly prepared by artisans and served up in recyclable containers.
Don’t forget: To sign up for the more popular workshops, or you might miss out.
Glastonbury
When: 26-30 June 2019
Where: Somerset
The UK’s most famous festival, Glastonbury has been embracing new musical genres as well as striving for a more eco-friendly model, with festival-goers enjoying the improvements.
Different festival areas let you tap into a pop, boho or family-friendly vibe and there are countless food vendors ready to keep you energised. Highlights of this year’s line-up include Kylie Minogue and Stormzy, but don’t just stick to the Pyramid Stage, as there is a lot going on throughout the site. You can now also swap camping for glamping, with the more glamorous teepees and huts on site.
Don’t forget: Your wellies! Glastonbury has a knack for falling on a very weekend.
Latitude
When: 18-21 July 2019
Where: Suffolk
Latitude has grown enormously since its inception, but hasn’t lost the bohemian and relaxed vibe that makes it so special. The musical line-up might feature more big names now, but you’ll still be able to discover art installations in the woods, plenty of family-friendly fun and the infamous neon pink sheep that roam the site.
This year, Lana Del Rey and George Ezra head up the musical offerings, but don’t forget to visit the BBC Music Introducing stage, where you can watch new acts from the comfort of a sofa. Oh, and if you’re all about a luxury festival experience, book a spot in the deluxe camping section where you’ll find eco-friendly bell tents, hot showers and plug sockets.
Don’t forget: Your eco sunglasses. Latitude rarely suffers from bad weather.
Green Man
When: 15-18 August 2019
Where: Brecon Beacons
Green Man always serves up a super varied musical line-up, alongside literature, comedy and art performances that are fun for the whole family – and you’ll find the camping a little more eco-friendly than some festivals. Most people favour canvas bell tents and camper vans here, but you can also stay in a nearby hotel, if you don’t want to rough it.
The highlight of the festival is always the Burning of the Green Man on the Sunday evening, followed by a fireworks display and plenty of dancing.
Don’t forget: A waterproof jacket. Wales does like its rain.
Whether you’re looking for a fashion-forward festival or something that lets you get back to nature, the UK has an option for you. Just remember to tread a little more lightly, by returning home with everything you took, as well as some new memories.