Camp Bestival Draws Record Crowds to Dorset with Bastille, Self Esteem, and Fatboy Slim

Camp Bestival returned to Lulworth Castle in Dorset and achieved record-breaking attendance figures, with organisers confirming the festival's largest opening day in its history. The weekend featured headline performances from Self Esteem and Bastille, marking the latter's return to performing following a two-year break from live performances.

Friday and Saturday Performances

Self Esteem's Friday night headline set concluded with a Shirley Bassey-inspired conga line that engaged the crowd, while Billy Ocean performed classic hits on the Castle Stage. The British rock band Toploader drew substantial afternoon crowds, and dance music artist Example also took the stage on Saturday evening as part of the lineup.

Sunday Takeover and Programming

Fatboy Slim curated Sunday's main stage takeover, introducing attendees to an eclectic mix of musical acts. The day featured The Beatles Dub Club performing ska and rocksteady reinterpretations of classic tracks, followed by The Beat's new wave reggae-punk style. DJ Fat Tony provided warm-up sets with what reviewers described as "Balearic sizzle," while De La Soul delivered hip-hop performances, operating as a duo following the 2023 loss of member Trugoy the Dove.

Beyond the Main Stage

Camp Bestival offered extensive family programming alongside its musical lineup. Radio 2's Sara Cox recorded a live podcast session in the Library Tent, Joe Wicks led a Wake Up & Workout fitness session on the Castle Stage, and traditional Morris dancers provided folk performances. The festival also featured inflatable assault courses, giant robot installations, and CBeebies meet-and-greet opportunities designed to appeal to younger attendees alongside their parents.