2000trees Festival

In July, Upcote Farm (Withington, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire) transforms into a music lover’s dream. The 2000trees Festival (8–11 July 2026) is an award-winning independent music event with a friendly, grassroots vibe. Over four days, rock, punk, indie and alternative bands take the stage, energizing the Cotswold countryside. The festival keeps its attendance modest (around 15,000 people), so it never feels overcrowded – here you can often see your favorite acts up close or even crowdsurf at the front. With fields of green and a forest for a backdrop, camping under the stars makes it all feel like an adventure in nature.

Started in 2007 by a team of music enthusiasts, 2000trees was built on a promise of value and community. Each summer, the festival features more than 80 bands across multiple stages – everything from surprising new talent to well-loved headliners. In between performances, attendees browse craft stalls, watch comedy acts or relax in the well-being areas. The site’s food village serves up local and international eats (think gourmet burgers and fresh veggie bowls), and cider brewed down the road stays on tap. Environmental care is baked in, with recycling stations and efforts to keep the farmland pristine throughout the weekend.

What truly stands out is the crowd’s camaraderie. 2000trees feels like a big family gathering where everyone fits right in. Parents dance with kids by dusk, tarot readers and jugglers meet punk rockers backstage, and art workshops dot the campsite. Fans cheer wildly at high-energy sets and respectfully listen during quiet acoustic songs. Even when mosh pits grow, the mood stays friendly – first-time fans get advice on surviving a circle pit, not jeers. This is a festival known for being welcoming and safe: you’ll see extra-accessible toilets and kids’ activities running all day.

When the bands aren’t playing, the fun continues. A comedy tent features stand-up and panel shows each night. Workshops (guitar lessons, tie-dye, etc.) pop up every day in a creative corner of the site. Early morning yoga sessions stretch attendees into the new day amid misty fields. After dark, the silent disco lets you boogie around a campfire. Evenings end with the Main Stage headliner under string lights or fireworks. For many, sharing beers in circle pits or laughing with camp neighbors by a fire becomes part of the ritual – it’s that kind of close-knit vibe.

For four days, 2000trees feels like a home away from home for music fans. It’s a place where the lineup always has something to surprise you, and the real discoveries happen in the between-times. By Monday you might be sunburnt and exhausted, but you’ll also have new favorite bands and a heart full of memories. Whether you came for a beloved headliner or a midnight acoustic jam, you’ll find that 2000trees is about one thing above all – having a great time with great people in the heart of nature. Pack your tent, bring your festival flag, and get ready to join a welcoming community.