The much-anticipated Audi Presents Wilderness is set to return to Cornbury Park this summer with a vibrant programme that cements its place as one of the UK’s most eclectic and immersive festivals. Set for an explosion of music, art, feasting, wellness and family fun, the 2025 edition promises, as ever, something for everyone.
From woodland theatre and secret gigs to lake serenity and euphoric dance floors, Wilderness remains a unique celebration of creativity and community. “Wilderness is a gathering of some of the most incredible artists, musicians, producers, performers, thinkers, teachers, writers, chefs and creators currently working on planet Earth – and of course, a union of the wonderful, wondrous Wilderness community.”
A Star-Studded Music Line-Up
Musical highlights will include Wet Leg, riding the wave of their second album Moisturizer, and Basement Jaxx with their first full live main stage show in over a decade. Supergrass returns to mark 30 years of I Should Coco, while standout performances are expected from Berlioz, Jalen Ngonda, Georgia, Afriquoi, and The Bootleg Beatles.
The Valley’s late-night rave line-up includes Confidence Man, Sally C, and Tarzsa, while The Dive debuts as a new platform for breakthrough live artists.
Arts and Immersive Experiences
This year’s arts programme features comedy-cabaret sensation Dan Wye in Dan Wye: Am I Sam Smith?, and a bold takeover of the House of Sublime by Hackney’s Yard Theatre. Theatrical mischief abounds, with POLICE COPS bringing their vampire-slaying epic to the stage. The Atrium once again hosts communal highlights like God’s Jukebox and The Wilderness Choir—this year featuring The Beatles’ “Something”.
As always, creativity runs wild. “Sue the Huns is slapping HR in the face with a stiletto and dancing on the printer tray till sunrise,” declares one preview, hinting at the anarchic fun in store. Sheep Trials, courtesy of Village Circus, add a surreal charm to the weekend.
Feasting and Fine Dining
Culinary delights reach new heights as Audi returns as headline partner. Chef Monica Galetti curates the bespoke Audi Kitchen menu, while Michelin-starred Rohit Ghai brings bold Indian flavours to the new Audi Garden and BBQ, overlooking the festival’s cricket pitch. The Long Table Banquet on opening night features British-Syrian chef Imad Alarnab and comedian Deborah Frances-White in support of refugee charity Choose Love.
For Families and Wellbeing Seekers
Newcomer Tinkertown is inviting families to rediscover the joy of den-building, while Aardman Animation’s team leads clay-modelling workshops. On the wellness front, Peloton hosts hikes, mindful breakfasts, and interactive workouts, while yoga of every variety, including paddleboard and aerial, takes place at The Sanctuary. Forest bathing, wild running, and lakeside meditations round out a weekend of rejuvenation.
A Theme of Bright Ideas
This year’s theme, Bright Ideas, encourages festivalgoers to illuminate their looks and unleash bold creativity. “Saturday’s your stage,” organisers say. “By night, it’s time to glow. Step into your after-dark alter ego and light up The Valley.”
Whether you’re dancing under the stars, crafting clay characters with the kids, or feasting on a Rohit Ghai BBQ, Wilderness 2025 promises a radiant weekend of connection and expression, all set in the breathtaking surroundings of Oxfordshire’s Cornbury Park.
