Becoming at one with Wilderness, a festival and so much more.

Wilderness Festival is so much more than just another music festival. It brings together creativity, nature, holistic and spiritual pursuits as well as the ultimate goal of any festival, freedom and joy!! 

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From wizards and Coldplay at Glastonbury to glam ravers at Creamfields, hipsters at Lovebox and champagne swilling celebs at Coachella, if it’s a noteworthy festival, the chances are I’ve probably been to it. You could call me something of a festival aficionado. But without doubt, having been to so many festivals over the years, my ultimate favourite is Wilderness Festival, and this is why. 
 
Set in the spectacular Oxfordshire countryside in the gaze of the beautiful Cornbury Estate manor house, wilderness festival takes place in a magical little pocket of green fields, forests and lakes in the balmy hot month of August. It’s only a short distance from Oxford city centre and there are ample taxis available, which means that many people, not wishing to camp in the festival grounds can easily stay offsite in hotels overnight. 
 
What I love the most about this festival is that it’s not only about the music, it’s about so much more than that. It's a fully immersive experience which caters for so many diverse types of people, families, groups, friends, parents, kids, there’s something magical for everyone to enjoy. As well the music, it’s also extremely culturally diverse, hosting a whole plethora of dance, literature, arts and crafts activities, as well a huge holistic and wellbeing offering at The Sanctuary. 

Music to your ears 

Hosting an incredible array of both well-known and up-and-coming music acts, the main stage hosts the big names, but there are many other stages, tents and platforms dotted around the landscape which host shows, parties, readings and events. This year I loved watching Underworld perform on the main stage, as well as Years and Years, Sophie Ellis Bextor and I loved the House Gospel Choir. But often more fun were the ad lib theatrical productions, where actors or singers in fabulous costumes would enact a whole play or sing just for you or a small group of your friends randomly. It's these magical little, quieter moments which give Wilderness a much more intimate vibe.  

The Lakes 

For those looking to be at one with nature head to The Lakes where there’s wild swimming and paddle boarding. It’s fully encouraged for you to go for a dip in the lake, but if that’s not for you, you can always opt for a glass of bubbles in the bubbling hot tubs, a much more luxurious water pursuit. Other outdoor activities include horse riding, archery, foraging walks in the woods, hiking and axe throwing! 

Makers Quarter 

Sticking with the mindfulness theme for those who are interested in more wholesome crafty past times, I highly recommend a little trip to the Makers Quarter. There you'll find artists and creatives who can help you to hone your skills in traditional crafts such as metalwork (to create your own jewellery), wood whittling and scent making, using natural materials and ancient tools of the trade. I loved the floristry section filled with a vibrant selection of seasonal flora and fauna from which I fashioned my own flower crown. And soul nourishing activities like aura painting, life drawing and self-portrait illustration workshops. 

Foodie Heaven 

The food at Wilderness is unrivalled in the festival stakes. I consider myself something of a foodie and absolutely loved the giant feasting tables hosted by celebrity chefs. This year's chefs included Skye Gyngell and Adam Handling, but each year they bring on board some of the most exciting names in the culinary world. Outside of the grand banquets there are plenty of other options such as the Social Pantry, vegan kitchens, all manner of food trucks from tacos to gyoza, through to British classics like crumpets and tea! 

Bubbles 

I love the areas hosted by the big champagne companies. Veuve Clicquot have a fabulous marquee area on the lakeside with garden party vibes outdoors and riotous raves with guest DJs inside. Or head to Nyetimber’s altogether more civilised double decker bus bar with bohemian gardens and tables for you to swill some specialist English Sparkling wine.  
 
There are various activities for kids and families, like face painting, theatre sessions, adult and kids’ outdoor discos and shows, many of which were so much fun I joined anyway despite me not having any kids. Or there’s poetry recitals, open mic sessions and readings from well-known authors sharing their latest novels. 

After Dark 

But perhaps the most fun comes after dark in The Valley!! With a glittering array of stellar DJs, disco balls in the trees and laser shows in the sky that mimic the euphoric beats. The Valley is a spectacular location to dance the night away. And as part of the Wilderness tradition, a lot of festival goers dress up in outfits fitted with LED lights or shimmering sequin numbers to light up the huge open air dance floor. It’s quite a magnificent sight. 

The Sanctuary 

For those nursing a sore head from the night before, or those more interested in holistic pursuits, The Sanctuary is a welcome respite! An entire field filled with massage, reiki, reflexology, wellbeing talks, healing sound gong baths and yoga classes. This area is where to go to nourish the mind, body and soul. They even offer complimentary therapy sessions with a calm, cool space to chill and free water. 
 
And that brings me to the end of my magical Wilderness Journey for another year. As I said, I love it so much that I’ve already booked my tickets for next year without even knowing the line-up. Because the whole experience is what I love. So, whether you’re a festival aficionado or a festival virgin, I can’t think of any other festival I’d recommend more! 
 
Tickets for Wilderness start at around £191 for general camping tickets and day passes are released later in the year. Head to www.wildernessfestival.com for more info. 

Check out more of Bonnie's inspirational trips here.

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