The party of the year comes to the Cotswolds! Revellers flock to 5,000 acre estate in Oxfordshire to enjoy a weekend of indulgence and hedonism (and there's not a screen in sight!)

The fifteenth edition of the Wilderness Festival has begun in the heart of the Cotswolds, transforming the historic Cornbury Park estate into a sprawling hub of revelry and indulgence. Located in Oxfordshire, the 5,000-acre venue, better known for its roaming fallow deer, is now alive with music, art, and extravagant experiences, drawing thousands of attendees for a three-day celebration of hedonism and escapism. Some 30,000 revellers are expected to gather at the site, located near the picturesque village of Charlbury, just a short distance from the celebrity hotspot Soho Farmhouse. Organised by Live Nation, the festival has long been distinguished by its unique approach to entertainment, offering a “wholesome weekend of escapism” free from the distractions of screens. Instead of relying on digital content, the event focuses on immersive experiences such as live performances, theatrical productions, and wellness activities. Attendees are expected to arrive dressed in sequins and feather boas, adding to the vibrant atmosphere as the pastoral setting becomes adorned with fairy lights, large marquees, and massive speakers. Over the years, the festival has drawn a mix of high-profile guests and everyday festivalgoers. Celebrities such as David Cameron, Benedict Cumberbatch, Lady Amelia Windsor, and Cara Delevingne have attended past editions, while the event continues to attract families seeking both fun and affordability. This year’s lineup includes notable names like Sophie Turner, Florence Pugh, and Olivia Colman, who often prefer the exclusive VIP areas to maintain a lower profile during the festivities. One of the standout traditions at the festival is the Sunday cricket match, where participants are required to wear fancy dress and are encouraged to streak. Alongside this quirky activity, the festival offers a range of other attractions, including wine tastings, martini masterclasses, and opportunities for wild swimming in the lake. Music lovers can look forward to performances by Annie Lennox, Scissor Sisters, Groove Armada, and Carl Cox, along with a series of celebrity DJ sets. Catering at the festival is far removed from typical festival fare. Instead of simple food and lukewarm drinks, attendees can expect gourmet experiences featuring champagne on tap and opulent banquets prepared by renowned chefs. This year, the culinary highlights include contributions from Dame Prue Leith, Monica Galetti, Atul Kochhar, and Andi Oliver. For those looking to splurge, luxury accommodation options are available, ranging from £1,918 for a three-night stay in a luxury teepee to £2,563 for a log cabin. A particularly sought-after option is the Luxury Mahal tent, which sleeps up to ten people and includes proper beds, memory foam mattresses, towels, linen, and dining furniture. For those who prefer a more modest experience, standard tickets start at £105, allowing access to the main festival grounds and a variety of activities. In addition to music and food, the festival offers arts, crafts, and wellness classes, providing a diverse array of experiences for visitors of all ages. The absence of screens ensures that the focus remains on the physical environment and the shared experience of the event. The festival’s location within the scenic Cornbury Park adds to its appeal, with the surrounding landscape serving as a backdrop for the celebrations. As the weekend progresses, the estate will continue to transform under the glow of fairy lights and the hum of music, offering a unique blend of nature, culture, and indulgence. With its emphasis on community, creativity, and connection, the Wilderness Festival has solidified its position as a must-attend event for those seeking an alternative form of festival experience.