The fifteenth edition of the Wilderness Festival is underway this weekend at the Grade-1 listed Cornbury Park Estate in the Cotswolds, attracting an estimated 30,000 attendees. The three-day event, situated on a 5,000-acre estate, has been nicknamed 'Poshstock' by some attendees for its upscale amenities and clientele.
Operated by Live Nation, the festival is billed by organizers as a "wholesome weekend of escapism." It has gained a reputation as a gathering for the upper echelons of society, with guests known to trade traditional country attire for more festive wear. Previous attendees have included notable figures such as David Cameron, Benedict Cumberbatch, Lady Amelia Windsor, Cara Delevingne, Sophie Turner, Florence Pugh, and Olivia Colman.
The event features a range of activities and comforts that distinguish it from more conventional festivals. These include champagne readily available, wood-fired saunas, and spa facilities. High-profile guests often utilize exclusive VIP areas. An unofficial highlight is the annual Sunday cricket match, characterized by a mandatory fancy dress code and a tradition of encouraging streaking.
Culinary offerings at Wilderness are a departure from typical festival fare, featuring champagne and elaborate banquet-style meals. This year's culinary program includes chefs Atul Kochhar and Andi Oliver, following in the footsteps of hosts like Dame Prue Leith and Monica Galetti.
Accommodation options cater to a luxury market, with prices for boutique camping packages reaching over £7,000 for a Luxury Mahal tent designed to sleep ten people. Other options include teepees starting at £1,918 for three nights, yurts around £2,000, and log cabins for £2,563. Standard day tickets begin at £105, with weekend general admission tickets from £288.
The festival's lineup for this year includes performances by artists such as Annie Lennox and Scissor Sisters, alongside DJ sets from Groove Armada and Carl Cox. Beyond the music, attendees can participate in activities like wine tasting, martini masterclasses, and wild swimming in the estate's lake. Despite its sophisticated offerings, the festival is also noted for being family-friendly, attracting young families.
A lavish lunch hosted by George Spencer-Churchill, Marquess of Blandford, at nearby Blenheim Palace traditionally marks the start of the weekend's festivities. The event is held near Charlbury, Oxfordshire, and is a short distance from the celebrity-frequented Soho Farmhouse.
