Kendal Calling 2025

Kendal Calling, a renowned music and arts festival, takes place each year at Lowther Deer Park in the Lake District, Cumbria. Since its modest beginnings in 2006 as a two-day event with just 900 attendees, the festival has transformed into a four-day extravaganza, now attracting up to 40,000 visitors annually. Kendal Calling is more than just a music festival; it’s a chance to explore a unique world filled with music, art, and discovery.

With over 13 stages and diverse venues across the festival grounds, attendees can wander from Tim Burgess' Tim Peaks Diner to the groovy, '70s-themed Desert Island Disco. The grounds are packed with creative spaces like Lost Eden, where art installations and striking visuals transform the landscape, and the Glow Tent, an energetic hub for electronic music lovers. The festival also offers cabaret performances, wellness activities, and more.

The lineup has consistently featured some of the biggest names in music, with past acts including Blondie, Pendulum, Dizzee Rascal, James, Mumford & Sons, Calvin Harris, Stereophonics, Primal Scream, and Nile Rodgers & Chic. This year, Kendal Calling marks its 20th anniversary with an exceptional lineup, headlined by Courteeners, Fatboy Slim, The Prodigy, and Kaiser Chiefs. The 2025 edition will run from 31 July to 3 August, promising an unforgettable experience for all.

The festival's appeal goes beyond the music. Kendal Calling is celebrated for its family-friendly atmosphere, interactive workshops, themed areas, and carnival-style parades, making it a favourite for all ages. It has won several accolades, including Best Small UK Festival at the UK Festival Awards in 2010 and Best Small Festival at the LIVE UK Awards in 2011, reinforcing its reputation as one of the UK's most cherished festivals.

Sustainability is at the heart of Kendal Calling, with initiatives like the Leave No Trace campaign, which encourages festivalgoers to minimise waste and promote eco-friendly behaviours. This focus on environmental responsibility, combined with the festival’s scenic location and strong community spirit, has created a loyal following and cemented Kendal Calling as an iconic part of the UK festival scene. It’s a celebration of music, art, and unity in the stunning landscapes of the Lake District, inviting festivalgoers to return each summer for a weekend filled with joy and creativity.