Access provision at British festivals has improved enormously over the last decade, largely driven by the charity Attitude is Everything and its work with organisers. Viewing platforms, accessible camping, personal assistant tickets and accessible toilets are now standard at most large events.
What has not changed is that almost none of it is automatic. Access facilities have to be applied for separately, usually well in advance, and the applications close long before the festival.
What is usually available
- An accessible campsite, closer to the arena, on firmer or level ground, with accessible toilets and often showers and charging.
- Raised viewing platforms at main stages, generally with space for a wheelchair user plus one companion.
- A free or discounted personal assistant ticket where you need support to attend.
- Blue Badge parking closer to the entrance, usually needing to be booked in advance.
- Accessible toilets, often with a RADAR key. Take your own, as festivals do not always have spares.
- An access information point on site, which is the place to go with any problem during the event.
- Fridge storage for medication, charging for powered wheelchairs, BSL interpretation at some stages, and quiet spaces at some events.
How to apply
The process is broadly consistent across UK festivals:
- Buy your standard ticket first. Access provision is added to an existing booking, not sold instead of one.
- Find the accessibility or access page on the festival's website, which is often buried in the FAQs or the information section.
- Complete the access application form, which usually asks what you need rather than for a diagnosis.
- Provide evidence. Most festivals accept a range of documents, commonly including PIP or DLA award letters, an Access Card, a Blue Badge, a CredAbility card or a letter from a GP or consultant.
- Wait for confirmation, and print or save it. Take it with you.
An Access Card is worth considering if you attend several events a year, because it translates your requirements into symbols that many festivals accept directly, saving you from resubmitting medical evidence every time.
Apply early. Then apply earlier.
This is the single most important point. Accessible camping and viewing platform capacity is limited, and deadlines at large festivals frequently fall two to three months before the event. Applications also close early because wristbands and parking passes have to be posted. Missing the deadline usually means no access provision at all, even if you have a ticket.
Questions worth asking before you book
- How far is accessible camping from the arena, and is the route surfaced or trackway?
- Is the site flat, and does it have hills or long distances between stages?
- Are viewing platforms available at all stages or only the main one, and are they first come first served?
- Is there accessible parking, and how close is it to accessible camping?
- Can you bring your own vehicle or campervan into the accessible area?
- Are mobility scooters permitted, and is there somewhere to charge one?
- Is there a quiet space, and are there hearing loops or BSL interpretation?
- What medical provision is on site, and can they store refrigerated medication?
On the day
Arrive early, check in at the access point first, and take spares of anything critical, including medication, batteries and a RADAR key. If something is not right, speak to the access team rather than a general steward, because they are the people with the authority to fix it.
Frequently asked questions
Are personal assistant tickets free at UK festivals?
At most large festivals, yes, where the applicant demonstrates they need support to attend. The policy varies, so check the individual festival.
What evidence do I need for an access ticket?
Commonly a PIP or DLA letter, an Access Card, a Blue Badge or a letter from a medical professional. Most festivals list the documents they accept.
When do access applications close?
Often two to three months before the festival, and sometimes earlier if capacity fills. Apply as soon as you have your ticket.
Do I need a RADAR key?
Bring one if you have one. Many accessible festival toilets use them and spares are not always available on site.
