Summer 2025 is calling, and the UK festival scene is 🔥 hotter than ever. Whether you're into indie, grime, pop, or dance — there's something epic for everyone. But let’s be real — festivals can be crazy expensive 💸. That’s why we’re dropping not only the best festivals in the UK this summer, but also smart ways to save money on travel, including the 16–25 Railcard and Monzo Railcard perks (terms and conditions apply, of course 😉).
🎤 Top UK Festivals to Catch in Summer 2025
Here’s your ultimate hit list of UK festivals that students shouldn’t miss this summer:
1. Glastonbury Festival (June 25–29, 2025) – Somerset
🎶 The King of UK Festivals.
Glastonbury is the most iconic festival in the country, combining massive music stages, immersive art installations, late-night raves, and surprise performances. Whether you’re camping for five days or day-tripping, it’s an unforgettable experience.
💡 Budget Tip: Get a 16–25 Railcard for cheaper trains to Castle Cary Station (closest to the festival). More on that below!
2. Wireless Festival (July 4–6, 2025) – London
🎧 Grime. Hip-Hop. R&B. Vibes.
Wireless is the UK’s top urban music festival, attracting huge international artists and DJs. With high energy and city-based convenience, it’s ideal for music lovers who prefer not to camp.
📍 Venue: Finsbury Park or Crystal Palace (TBC). Either way — train, Tube or bus it on a budget.
3. Reading & Leeds Festivals (August 22–24, 2025) – Reading & Leeds
🎸 A double dose of rock, alt, and everything loud.
Split across two cities with the same lineup, this twin-site festival is a student classic. Expect everything from guitar-heavy rock to viral TikTok chart-toppers, plus intense crowds, mosh pits, and memories you won’t forget.
🚆 Save big on travel to Reading Station or Leeds Station with a Railcard.
4. TRNSMT Festival (July 11–13, 2025) – Glasgow Green
🎤 Scotland’s premier city-centre music weekend.
TRNSMT gives you all the big-stage energy without the muddy camping fields. A great choice for a weekend trip to Scotland with top-tier performances and a buzzing local crowd.
✈️ Pro tip: If you're coming from England, cheap flights + trains are your friend — again, Railcard FTW!
5. Latitude Festival (July 24–27, 2025) – Suffolk
🌳 Art, comedy, indie, and magical lakeside vibes.
Latitude offers a peaceful blend of live music, creative workshops, and comedy under the trees. It's one of the more relaxed and artsy festivals — perfect if you want culture with your camping.
🚆 How to Save Money on Festival Travel
Music and mud are fun. Breaking the bank? Not so much. Here's how to travel smarter:
✅ Get a 16–25 Railcard
If you’re aged 16–25 (or a full-time student), this is a no-brainer.
🎯 Save 1/3 on train travel across the UK.
💰 In just 2 or 3 trips, it basically pays for itself.
Quick Facts:
- Works on Standard Anytime, Off-Peak, and Advance fares.
- Digital version available.
- Just £30 a year — less if you split with friends using split ticketing apps.
💳 Already Have Monzo Plus or Premium?
You might already be eligible for a free Railcard! 🎉
✅ Monzo Perk: Some Monzo tiers include a free 16–25 digital Railcard.
📲 All digital. No paperwork. No wallet bulge.
👉 Check eligibility & terms here
Terms and conditions apply — always double-check before signing up!
🎒 Final Thoughts: Party Smart, Travel Smarter
Festival season is all about music, memories, and maybe a little mud. But smart students know how to balance the party with the budget.
TL;DR
- 🎸 Hit Glasto, Wireless, Reading, Leeds, TRNSMT, or Latitude this summer.
- 🚆 Slash your travel costs with a 16–25 Railcard.
- 💳 Already a Monzo user? You might get one for free — check your plan!
🔥 Bookmark this blog and share it with your group chat!
💡 Want more student-friendly tips and travel hacks? Explore more on FreePlug.org/blog
FreePlug – Helping students find the best free deals, discounts, and festival hacks since forever. 🎓🛍️
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- Need budget-friendly ways to socialise? Check out our guide to saving money on UK nights out 🎤🍻
🛑 Disclaimer: As of the time of launching this blog, FreePlug is not affiliated with any of the brands or companies mentioned above. All trademarks and product names are the property of their respective owners. We just share the good stuff for student benefit. 😎