Camp Bestival

Camp Bestival: A Bubble-Fuelled Family Adventure! 

Image credit - Camp Bestival Hello Content

Bubbles, pyjamas, glow sticks, glitter, sequins, trolleys, dancing kids, sleeping kids… and dancing dads! Camp Bestival had it all - and then some. A weekend of exploring, raving, laughing, and family bonding, and let’s just say... some of us (ahem, early 40s) are still in recovery mode.

It was our first time camping at Camp Bestival, and it definitely won’t be our last. My 9-year-old daughter was sad to leave, and my teenage son discovered a new love for dancing, edging his way to the front of the crowd, and even carving out his own music taste. Big wins all round!

We knew it would be good as we had been before as day visitors when the kids were small, but this time it was next level. The attention to detail was amazing: from the vibrant layout and jaw-dropping giant sculptures to the roller disco and actual world’s biggest bouncy castle (yes, it’s ginormous) The craft tent was a brilliant haven for creative little hands, and for new parents, the NCT space was a calm, welcoming retreat for feeding and quiet time.

A huge hit this year was the Bluey Meet and Greet, hosted by Moose Toys - a total dream for little ones. You got the chance to meet everyone’s favourite Aussie pup, Bluey, along with her whole family. There was a full-size Bluey Food Truck for the perfect family photo opportunity, a chance to shop the Bluey Supermarket, and a cosy space to wind down with teatime screenings. A brilliantly put-together space that felt straight out of the show itself.

Image Credit - Matthew Read (Resort Dorset)

Let’s talk about the music…

The music was a real highlight, a true feast for the ears, with something for absolutely everyone. From pop to punk, classical to club bangers, Camp Bestival nailed it with a mix of genres that kept every music lover happy.

For the kids, the Castle Stage was packed with crowd-pleasers: Mr Tumble (an icon!); Blippi’s first-ever UK appearance; Dick and Dom causing chaos (as always); Mr Maker crafting up a storm; and Horrible Histories keeping both kids and adults giggling, and learning a thing or two!

A special shoutout goes to Dorset’s own Pronghorn. the undisputed kings of cowpunk! We’d heard about them, but this was our first time seeing them live, and they did not disappoint. Think high-octane banjo and fiddle action, wild energy, and a wonderfully chaotic mix of punk and folk with a seriously fun edge. They're as entertaining to watch as they are to listen to, a brilliantly rowdy, totally unique experience. We’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for their next gig, whether it’s nearby or a bit of a road trip away! The Big Top was one long party with late-night DJs, raves, and a brilliant silent disco - surreal, hilarious, and genuinely one of the best ways to round off a day.

Pronghorn - Image Credit Resort Dorset 

Saturday night’s headliner on the Castle Stage was Basement Jaxx, and for us, it was the ultimate moment. Banger after banger, incredible energy, and the whole field bouncing, it was electric. Some of us haven’t stopped playing their album since we got back!

Sunday brought a more chilled vibe (possibly something to do with the late-night dancing...), but the quality didn’t dip. We were lucky enough to catch Brad Kella, an inspiring classical pianist whose talent and story moved many of us. Entirely self-taught and with a powerful backstory, his performance was mesmerising - one of those unexpected festival moments that stays with you.

And then… Sir Tom Jones. At 85 years young, he took to the stage and absolutely owned it. Hit after hit, charisma in spades, and a voice that hasn’t aged a day. He had the crowd in the palm of his hand. It was iconic, uplifting, and a real privilege to witness.

Image credit - Camp Bestival Hello Content 

Shall we talk about the food? Because for some of us, this is a major part of any event, and Camp Bestival did not disappoint. The choice is endless, and not a single bite was regretted. Top highlight? The 24-hour marinated lamb pitta with fresh, zingy salad and harissa mayo fries - worth going just for that. We also stumbled upon Thyme and Tide, a fantastic seafood offering from Cornwall, fresh, flavourful, and clearly made with love. And then there’s DJ BBQ… dinner and a show! These burger-slinging legends serve up serious flavour with a side of party vibes, dancing while you wait is mandatory, and you’ll need the energy to take on one of their epic burgers.

And then... the grand finale. The closing of the show was unreal. A firework display like no other we’ve ever seen, a combination of great tunes, immersive light shows, video content, and a firework spectacular that had our jaws on the floor. Those behind it deserve serious recognition, it was the perfect close to the perfect time.

Image credit - Camp Bestival Hello Content

What we learnt for next time:

• Pack a sparkly outfit (or two - trust us, more is more).
• Comfortable shoes are essential - you’ll smash 10,000 steps without even trying.
• A sun umbrella is a smart move (we picked one up from the lovely Weldmar Hospice stall).
• And don’t forget the trolley - everyone has one. It’s the ultimate festival hack for hauling tired little ones, snacks, chairs, glitter kits, and the occasional napping dad!

Honestly, what Camp Bestival doesn’t know about putting on a family-friendly festival isn’t worth knowing. These folks are pros - and we felt totally safe, totally welcome, and totally free to let our hair down with our most precious people right beside us.

Camp Bestival, you’ve got us hooked. Same time next year? We’ll be there, sequins at the ready.

Image - Resort Dorset

The dates for 2026 are 30^TH July – 2^nd August - Early bird tickets are released Friday 8^th August – grab yours whilst you can: Early Bird Tickets