With a diverse lineup spanning electronic, indie, folk, and everything in between, Wilderness Festival 2025 offered a rich selection of music and arts set against the stunning backdrop of Cornbury Park. From immersive performances on multiple stages to wellness activities and unique experiences like open water swimming, Wilderness felt less like a typical festival and more like a retreat for the senses. Over four days, festival-goers were invited to escape everyday life and dive into a world of joyous hedonism, creativity, and community. Having attended solo this year, I want to share my personal journey through the music, moments, and magic that made Wilderness one of the most memorable festivals I’ve experienced.
Friday
Although Wilderness officially began on Thursday, my festival journey started on Friday. After arriving by train at Cornbury station, I joined fellow festival-goers on the shuttle bus to the site. During the ride, I met some musicians from the Wilderness Orchestra, and after chatting with them, I was warmly invited to join their group, a welcoming moment that perfectly captured the friendly, inclusive spirit that would define the whole weekend.
Arriving at the festival, I was immediately struck by how scenic and serene the surroundings were: rolling countryside and graceful trees made it feel like stepping into a retreat rather than just another festival. Setting up my tent felt peaceful and almost meditative in the calm environment.
The first act I watched was Berlioz at the Wilderness Stage, and as a massive fan of his jazz-infused house music, I was excited to hear some of my favourite tracks like “Jazz Is For Ordinary People" in a live setting. Known for blending smooth jazz elements with upbeat electronic rhythms, his set felt both sophisticated and well thought-out. Among me were other attendees dressed to the nines in boho-chic outfits, dancing in the sun and absorbing the feel-good vibes of Berlioz's set.
Following Berlioz, Air’s set was hypnotic and entrancing. The French duo are known for their cinematic, dreamy soundscapes that mix electronic music with lush instrumentation and laid-back vocals, and this performance was nothing short of that. Performing in all-white and framed by a minimalist white rectangle of light, they created a futuristic yet nostalgic atmosphere, lulling the audience into a tranquil state. Their biggest hits- like “Sexy Boy” and “All I Need”, were highlights that beautifully bridged the past and present of electronic music.
Later in the evening, Orbital took the stage, where the energy shifted dramatically. Known as pioneers of British electronic dance music, their sets are a masterclass in layered beats and intricate synth work. The crowd transformed into a sea of glowing, DIY illuminated props- umbrellas turned into glowing jellyfish and lampshades for hats adorned with lights, adding to the magical nighttime vibe. Dancing to classics like “Halcyon + On + On” felt like a shared ritual, and meeting a fellow solo festival-goer in the crowd only enhanced that sense of connection, making their set both memorable and a great start to the partying that followed later on.
After this, my new friend and I explored the late-night dance scene in The Valley, where Annie Mac brought the energy in the setting of a secret forest rave. Annie, known for her work as a BBC Radio 1 DJ and tastemaker in the dance music scene, curated a set that was both familiar and fresh, drawing on her deep knowledge of underground and mainstream electronic music. The rave atmosphere, buzzing with thousands of festival-goers, reminded me of jungle raves I attended in Southeast Asia, with the valley lit with twinkling lights and flamboyant outfits.
Saturday
The next morning, I rejoined the orchestra crew for some yoga led by their manager, who also happens to be a yoga teacher. This thoughtful wellness touch perfectly encapsulates Wilderness’s blend of hedonism and health, helping to prepare us for a long day and night ahead. After limbering up, we took a dip in Corbury House’s stunning lake- a festival feature unlike any other. Open water swimming at a festival might sound wild, but the sun-soaked lake, with rays bouncing off the water, was breathtaking and surprisingly refreshing. It was a rare moment of connection with nature and fellow festival-goers, some of whom fully embraced Wilderness’s free-spirited nature by wearing no clothes.
After freshening up in the impressively well-maintained facilities (which resembled the 'posh washes' you'd have to pay for at other festivals), I headed to The Forum, which was hosting a string quartet performing a mix of classical pieces and modern covers. This was a rare, elegant interlude showcasing the festival’s musical diversity. The musicians explained the stories and history behind the songs, adding depth to the performance and highlighting the festival’s boutique nature.
At the main stage, Antony Smierek delivered an engaging and heartfelt performance. Formerly a primary school teacher, Antony’s energetic and personable stage presence was endearing and infectious. As he ran through the crowd, he encouraged children attending to follow their dreams, a touching message that resonated with all ages. His gratitude for his journey and connection to his Manchester roots shone through, making his set feel intimate despite the large setting.
Next, was Aurora's set- in my view, the standout of the festival. The Norwegian singer-songwriter is renowned for her ethereal voice and theatrical performances, and this was no exception. She appeared on stage in a striking red dress and her signature platinum blonde hair, backed by two female musicians whose harmonies added a siren-like quality to the folk-inspired sound. Aurora’s vocal technique was mesmerising, effortlessly shifting from powerful belts to delicate, softer tones. At times, her live singing was so flawless it felt pre-recorded, until she'd sing a run which reminded us that she was in fact singing live.
The visuals were equally captivating, with striking imagery like Aurora licking a knife and bleeding from her tongue contrasting starkly with her more delicate, fairy-like presence. This blend of light and darkness made the performance deeply compelling, where I heard audience members speak of her performance evoking imagery of summoning mythical sea creatures. The crowd grew quickly throughout her set, a testament to her magnetic appeal and the depth she brings to her music. I was genuinely sad when it ended, a rare feeling that speaks to the power of her live artistry.
The evening rolled on with Eats Everything bringing a feel-good disco vibe to the arena-like stage, spinning house and disco-infused tunes that had everyone moving. Then came Confidence Man, whose energetic and cheeky performance kept the party going, before I spent the rest of the night raving at the valley and later the Riddle Stage– an intimate and almost hidden venue that felt exclusive and special.
Sunday
Sunday’s daytime started on a more reflective note with the Wilderness Orchestra performing a marine-inspired piece combining live musicians and actors reciting stories specially composed for the festival. It was a moment of calm amid the bustling festival life, showcasing the unique creative programming Wilderness is known for. Around the site, you could find the Bootleg Beatles performing, watch a cricket match (a rare sight at festivals!), and see the occasional streaker on the pitch, keeping the free-spirited vibe alive. I also stopped by the Audi stage, and grabbed one of their free branded water bottles, which was a nice added touch.
As evening approached, some of the festival’s biggest names took over the main stage. Wet Leg drew a large crowd with their catchy indie rock hits like “Chaise Longue” and “Wet Dream.” Their playful lyrics and vibrant energy made for an unmissable set that perfectly fit the festival’s fun and carefree spirit.
Closing the main stage were the legendary Basement Jaxx, delivering an explosive, rave-ready set that included massive hits such as "Romeo" and “Where’s Your Head At.” Their blend of house, breakbeat, and big anthems sent the crowd into a euphoric dance frenzy, a fitting finale for the festival’s musical journey.
After the main stage closed, the party continued until 2 a.m., where DJs kept the energy alive for those who weren't quite ready for the weekend to end.
Final Thoughts
Wilderness Festival is a rare gem that perfectly balances the tranquility of a countryside retreat with top-tier live music and boutique rave experiences. It’s stylish and well-curated, and large enough to allow variation without feeling claustrophobic, offering wellness activities like yoga and open water swimming alongside immersive electronic acts and intimate performances. The crowd is friendly, fashion-forward, and open-spirited, making it a genuinely warm and inclusive space. Whether you come for the music, the nature, or the community, Wilderness is a unique experience that you need to be there for to truly understand, and I would wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking for a festival that feels both like a luxury escape and a joyous celebration of music and life.
If you missed out this year, tickets are now available for Wilderness Festival 2026- you won't regret it.
Buy your tickets: here
