Shindig Festival in Ilminster is just around the corner

This much-loved festival takes place from May 25 to May 28 in the stunning grounds of Dillington Estate in Somerset, a 16th-century house and hotel that’s surrounded by beautiful, tree-studded parkland.

It offers everything from Funk to Punk, Dancehall to Drum & Bass, Hip Hop & House, as well as huge headline Live Acts and a DJ roster of old and new favorites that span pioneers, legends, and luminaries.

Emily Eavis, organiser of Glastonbury Festival, has recommended Shindig as a great alternative for another who missed out on Glasto tickets, given its close proximity – just 20 miles down the road.

With the cost-of-living crisis, coupled with popular South West coastal areas such as Cornwall and Devon continuing to be extremely expensive for families, festivals can be a great option for families looking for a cheaper camping alternative.

Shindig offers a “kids under 12 go free” ticket offer, and all activities are free in the Kids Kingdom during the four days which makes it considerably cheaper for a Spring getawayy.

This year’s headliners include dance-pop legend, Sister Sledge featuring Kathy Sledge, famous for such hits as We Are Family, Greatest Dancer, Lost In Music, and Thinking Of You.

Other well-known names include:

Satirical news reporter (and comedy genius), Jonathan Pie, known for his potty-mouthed, highly quotable parody of a journalist who can often be found outside Westminster;

London post-punk band, Warmduscher;

The original queen of reggae music who is best known for No, No No,

Dawn Penn, artist, producer, remixer, DJ, and founder of Phantasy,

Erol Alkan, top dog in the bass heavy-atmosphere of Britain's reggae dancehalls and BBC regular,

David Rodigan, one of the most celebrated and accomplished DJs in Britain, Norman Jay MBE; and BBC 6 music’s, Huey Morgan.

Expect some awe-inspiring art installations that look like they’ve fallen from Mars, from the most visionary and trailblazing creatives of today.

From giant welded artwork, and interactive diversions, to fire-breathing sculptures.

There’s a Kids Kingdom with its own cinema and rolling programme of family-friendly movies; plus, workshops in drumming, breakdancing, graffiti, DJing, and MCing; and not forgetting inflatables sessions, a climbing wall, puppet show, giant marble run, and loads more.

This year’s fancy dress theme is Mad Hatters, so expect a parade of Shindiggery Wonderland delights with Alice, the March Hare, and a Dormouse in tow.

If you want to stay in style at Shindig, there is a selection of superior, deluxe, and standard rooms in Dillington House, all with bathrooms and breakfast included.

If you prefer a more authentic camping experience but with a touch of luxury then there are airstreams, bell tents, and yurts for hire, plus posh toilets, and showers.

More seasoned festivalgoers can rock up with their trusty tents and create their own little sanctuary, just a few minutes’ walk from the action.

There are still tickets available for this four-day festival, with tickets costing an affordable £175 per adult, and kids under 12 go free.
 

Day tickets info

Adult tickets, Thursday to Monday. Thursday arrival, includes 4 nights camping for £175.

Teen tickets (Ages 13-17), Thursday to Monday. Thursday arrival, includes 4 nights camping for £75.

Adult tickets, Friday to Monday. Friday arrival, includes 3 nights camping for £145.

Adult tickets, Saturday to Monday. Saturday arrival, includes 2 nights camping for £110.

Adult tickets, Sunday to Monday. Sunday arrival, includes 1 night camping for £60.

Kids 12 and under go free with an accompanying adult.

For more information and tickets visit the festival’s festival here - www.shindigfestival.co.uk