Kendal Calling

Kendal Calling is a popular multi-day music festival held each summer in the beautiful Lowther Deer Park near Hackthorpe in Cumbria. Over four days the festival transforms lush fields and ancient woods into a vibrant wonderland of music, art and community. You'll find dozens of stages, bars and chill-out spots tucked among the trees, and a friendly crowd dancing to everything from big-name rock and pop acts to up-and-coming indie bands. Kendal Calling isn't just about music: it also features stand-up comedy, theatre performances and creative workshops – all set against the backdrop of rolling Lake District hills. It's the kind of place where sunrise yoga might follow a late-night DJ set, and where evenings sparkle with glowing art installations and campfire sing-alongs.

Kendal Calling's lineup is famous for its variety. One moment you might be rocking out with a chart-topping band on a main stage, and the next you could be dancing to a world-class DJ or swaying to a folk singer on a smaller stage. Kendal Calling covers genres from rock, pop and hip-hop to electronic, folk and beyond. But it's not just music: crowd-favourite attractions include a lively comedy tent with top comedians, and circus-style theatre and interactive art installations scattered around the grounds. Chill-out bars and lounges provide a chance to break from the music – perhaps a retro diner or a cosy tipi lounge where friends gather over craft beers or cocktails. With over a dozen stages and hidden nooks to explore, there is always something new to discover at Kendal Calling.

Kendal Calling is famously family-friendly. A dedicated Kids Zone offers crafts, games and workshops for children, and a quiet family camping field is just a short walk from the main arena. Kids might splash in the lake, run on the grassy hillsides or watch puppet shows, while parents relax nearby or catch a comedy set. Festival-goers of all ages mix easily here – from toddlers to grandparents – and many visitors return year after year with their whole family in tow. The crowd is so welcoming that newcomers quickly feel at home, whether you're there as a family or with friends.

The festival's setting is truly special. On the edge of the Lake District, Kendal Calling makes the most of Cumbria's stunning landscape. Some stages are set beside the lake or overlook rolling fells, and when the sun sets the woods light up with fire sculptures, fairy lights and glowing art pieces – especially in the festival's Lost Eden woodland area. Walking between acts feels like exploring a hidden village: you might stumble upon an outdoor yoga session, a quiet poetry tent or an impromptu drum circle. The fresh country air and open scenery keep the mood relaxed yet full of life.

Much of the magic happens in the campgrounds. General camping (included with your ticket) blankets the fields with tents and fairy lights, where neighbours become friends over morning coffee and evening sing-alongs. For extra comfort, Kendal Calling offers boutique camping areas (like the Deer Lodge campsite) with pre-pitched tents, hot showers and little extras. Around the arena you’ll find dozens of food stalls (from wood-fired pizza to veggie curries) and pop-up bars pouring local ales, ciders and cocktails – perfect for refuelling. All of these pieces come together to make Kendal Calling feel like more than just a festival; it's a welcoming village party in the countryside, full of adventure, laughter and great live music.