For several years now, we here at Deadbeat have been lucky enough to load our cameras and camping equipment into the van with our sights set for the Wilderness Festival. Nestled in the heart of Oxfordshire, the Wilderness Festival offers an unparalleled blend of music, arts, and wellness that makes it a unique gem in the UK's festival scene and beyond. Held annually in the stunning Cornbury Park, this festival is more than just a celebration of music—it's a holistic experience that combines the joy of live performances with an emphasis on well-being, creativity, and community. Wilderness Festival stands out not just in the UK but on the global stage for its innovative approach to what a music festival can be. For us, 2024 proved to be an amazing year to shoot the Wilderness Festival and the footage we captured highlights the unique, funky nature that is Wilderness Festival.
The Unique Charm of Wilderness Festival
Wilderness Festival is distinct in its seamless fusion of the traditional music festival with an array of wellness activities, gourmet food experiences, and artistic performances. Unlike many other festivals, Wilderness isn’t just about the headliners. It’s about the entire journey—whether you’re indulging in a feast curated by Michelin-starred chefs, taking part in a yoga session by the lake, or enjoying a captivating poetry reading in the woods.
This multifaceted approach allows attendees to craft their own experiences, making Wilderness as much about self-discovery and relaxation as it is about dancing to your favorite bands. This blend of activities ensures that Wilderness Festival offers something for everyone, whether you're a die-hard music fan, a foodie, or someone looking to unwind in nature.
Festival goers enjoy an early morning
yoga class in one of the many wellness tents
A Brief History of Wilderness Festival
Since its inception in 2011, Wilderness Festival has grown in both size and reputation. Founded by the team behind the Secret Garden Party, the festival was designed to be an escape from the usual hustle and bustle—a place where people could immerse themselves in nature, culture, and creativity. Over the years, Wilderness has evolved into a highly anticipated event on the UK’s festival calendar, attracting thousands of visitors annually.
The festival's location, Cornbury Park, with its ancient woodlands and rolling hills, provides a perfect backdrop for the festival's ethos of blending the natural world with artistic and musical expression. This historical estate, once a royal hunting ground, adds an extra layer of enchantment to the festival experience.
Wilderness from above
Facilities and Activities: More Than Just Music
Wilderness Festival is a sensory feast with a wide range of activities and facilities that cater to every whim and fancy. Here are some of the highlights:
Wellness Workshops and Activities
One of the festival’s main draws is its extensive wellness program. Attendees can partake in yoga, meditation, and breathwork sessions, often held in serene natural settings. For those looking to rejuvenate, there are spa experiences, including wood-fired hot tubs and saunas by the lakeside.
Culinary Delights
Foodies are in for a treat at Wilderness. The festival features long-table banquets hosted by some of the UK’s top chefs, as well as a variety of food stalls offering everything from organic snacks to gourmet street food. It’s not just about eating; it’s about celebrating food as an art form.
The Banquet: A steadfast Wilderness tradition
The Arts and Theatre
Beyond music, Wilderness offers a plethora of artistic performances, including theatre, dance, and spoken word. The festival also features workshops where attendees can try their hand at everything from crafting to circus skills.
Outdoor Adventures
For those who love the great outdoors, Wilderness offers activities like wild swimming, boating on the lake, and guided forest walks. It’s a chance to connect with nature in a way that few festivals can offer.
The Attraction of ‘Letters Live’
One of the standout features of Wilderness Festival is ‘Letters Live’, a live event where famous actors, musicians, and public figures read out letters penned by historical and contemporary figures. These letters range from the poignant to the humorous, offering a window into the lives and minds of people from different walks of life.
‘Letters Live’ has become a beloved part of Wilderness Festival, drawing large crowds and featuring performances by a range of well-known celebrities. The intimate setting and powerful readings make this a must-see for festival-goers looking for a unique cultural experience.
The great Benedict Cumberbatch giving the
Wilderness audience a captivating rendition of a
Letter
Celebrity Presence: Who’s Been Spotted?
Wilderness Festival has become a magnet for celebrities who are drawn to its relaxed atmosphere and diverse offerings. Over the years, the festival has seen appearances from a range of high-profile individuals, including musicians, actors, and even royalty. Notable attendees have included Florence Welch, the lead singer of Florence and the Machine, actors like Benedict Cumberbatch and Olivia Colman, and even members of the British royal family.
Their presence adds a touch of glamour to the festival, but it also speaks to the festival’s broad appeal and the unique experience it offers.
Testimonials: What Attendees Are Saying
The real magic of Wilderness Festival is best captured in the words of those who have experienced it. Here are a few comments found on some of the footage we captured at the festival on Wilderness’ insta:
@TheCashCows:
"That sure was a lot of fun!! Thanks to everyone who was there and made it happen."
@strawberry_clare:
"It was utterly glorious and we loved every moment! Such a success from start to finish ❤️ thank you to all who put so much effort into the planning and executing of the whole thing. 🙌
@denismacco1:
We had such a great time and all I’m gonna say about the Riddle… WOW!!!🤩👌🏽I literally cant wait for nxt year!! So is it 1st come 1st serve with the tickets?
Conclusion
Wilderness Festival is more than just an event; it's an experience that defies the typical festival mold. By combining wellness, music, arts, and gourmet cuisine in the stunning surroundings of Cornbury Park, Wilderness offers a unique and enriching escape from everyday life. Whether you’re a seasoned festival-goer or a first-timer, Wilderness is sure to leave a lasting impression. It's a celebration of life in all its forms a festival that invites you to embrace the wild within. You can find our content shot for this year’s 2024 Wilderness festival on their Instagram linked below.
https://www.instagram.com/wildernesshq/
All photos used in this article can be found on the Wilderness website linked below:
https://www.wildernessfestival.com/highlights/