GLOWORM FESTIVAL FAQ'S

GLOWORM FESTIVAL FAQ's

What is Gloworm Festival?

Gloworm Festival is one of the UK’s best family festivals, created especially for families with children aged 0–13. Held at Thoresby Park in Nottinghamshire, Gloworm combines live music, immersive performances, creative workshops, outdoor adventures, fairground fun, character meet-and-greets, family camping and hands-on activities in a magical countryside setting.

Where is Gloworm Festival held?

Gloworm Festival takes place at Thoresby Park, Nottinghamshire, in the East Midlands. The location is easily accessible from Nottingham, Sheffield, Lincoln, Leicester, Derby and surrounding areas, making it one of the most popular family days out in the East Midlands.

When is Gloworm Festival 2026?

Gloworm Festival 2026 takes place from 7–9 August 2026 at Thoresby Park, Nottinghamshire.

What age is Gloworm Festival best for?

Gloworm Festival is designed primarily for babies, toddlers, young children and families with children aged 0–13, although older siblings and adults also enjoy the festival’s entertainment, live music and family atmosphere.

Why is Gloworm Festival one of the best family festivals in the UK?

Gloworm Festival is loved by families because it combines entertainment, creativity, outdoor adventure and family bonding in a safe, welcoming and immersive environment. Unlike many larger festivals, Gloworm is specifically designed around younger children and shared family experiences.

Is Gloworm Festival good for toddlers and younger children?

Yes. Gloworm Festival is ideal for toddlers and younger children, with gentle activities, sensory experiences, storytelling, interactive performances, character appearances, creative play and dedicated family facilities throughout the festival.

Is Gloworm Festival a good family day out in Nottinghamshire?

Absolutely. Gloworm Festival is one of the most unique family days out in Nottinghamshire, offering live entertainment, creative activities, outdoor adventures and family camping all in one location at Thoresby Park.

Can you camp at Gloworm Festival?

Yes. Gloworm Festival offers family-friendly camping and glamping options so guests can enjoy the full weekend experience surrounded by nature, entertainment and immersive family activities.

What activities are included at Gloworm Festival?

Gloworm Festival features live music, stage performances, workshops, arts and crafts, storytelling, outdoor play, fairground rides, character meet-and-greets, circus acts, family entertainment and immersive experiences designed for children and families.

Is Gloworm Festival suitable for a weekend family break?

Yes. Many families travel from across the UK for a full weekend family festival experience, combining camping, entertainment, outdoor adventure and quality family time.

Tickets & Entry

How do I book activities?
Most activities are drop-in workshops and don’t require advance booking. If an activity does require booking, this will be arranged on the day at the relevant zone.

What’s included in a standard Gloworm Festival ticket?
Your ticket includes access to all shows, meet-and-greets, workshops, the fairground (free until 5pm), and much more. The only exceptions are VIP experiences and any clearly marked additional activities.

Do children under 2 need a ticket?
Yes. Children under 2 are free of charge but they still require a ticket for entry.

I have a question about my tickets. Who do I contact?
Gloworm does not handle ticket sales directly. Tickets are sold through a third party, Gigantic. If you purchased through our website, please contact them at customerservices@gigantic.com with your booking reference.

Can I change the day I’m attending?
Please contact your ticket agent directly for any changes.

I haven’t received my tickets – what should I do?
Contact the ticket provider with your booking details. They’ll be able to assist you.

Can I get a refund on my tickets?
Tickets and wristbands are strictly non-refundable.

Camping & Parking

Can I camp next to my friends?
Yes! If you and your friends have purchased the same type of camping ticket and arrive together, you may camp together. Please note that Park & Pitch and Glamping are located in a different field from General Camping.

Can I park my car next to my tent?
General campsite parking is in a designated car park next to the camping field. Vehicles are not permitted on the campsite for safety reasons. If you have purchased a Park & Pitch Pass, your car can be next to your tent or live-in vehicle.

Can I bring two vehicles if I’m camping?
One vehicle is included per camping pitch. A second vehicle may be possible on a first-come, first-served basis these can be purchased via the website.

Do I need to pay for parking if I’m camping?
One parking space is included per camping booking.

Can I unload/reload my camping gear at my pitch?
No vehicles are permitted on the camping field at any time. Please use the camping car park and carry your belongings to your pitch.

Can I have a campfire or BBQ?
Strictly no fires, BBQs, or open flames are permitted anywhere on site, including camping and glamping areas.

Can I have a gazebo near my tent?
Gazebos are not allowed on the festival site or camping pitches.

I have power – how do I use it?
Camping (power to pitch) - All powered pitches have a 16-amp plug. You’ll need to bring your own 16A to 13A adaptor to connect your appliances. Due to where power points are situated on the campsite, a minimum of 10m length is recommended in order to ensure your cable reaches to your tent.

Glamping - All Bell Tents are provided with a 16A to 13A adapter. Due to these only having 1 plug socket, if you require more plug sockets, please bring an extension lead with you so you can plug more items in.

Accessibility & Carers

Do carers qualify for free entry?
Yes, more information is available on our Accessibility page (link at the bottom of the website).

Is the festival wheelchair accessible?
There are several hard-standing paths across the site. Please note, in wet conditions some areas may be more difficult for wheelchairs and buggies.

Are there activities suitable for disabled children?
Yes, many of our activities are accessible, and all shows are suitable for all children.

Are there baby facilities?
Yes, we have baby changing facilities and dedicated baby feeding areas across the site.

On-Site Information

Where is Gloworm Festival held?
Gloworm takes place at Thoresby Park, Nottinghamshire, in the heart of the Midlands. Visit our Map & Info page for directions.

Are the fairground rides included?
Yes, rides are free between 10am – 5pm. After 5pm, rides are chargeable until 10pm.

Do I need to bring cash?
We recommend bringing some cash as a backup, as card machines may experience signal issues.

Can I bring my own food and drink?
Yes, you may bring food and sealed drinks. Unsealed drinks may need to be decanted into festival-safe containers. A wide range of food vendors will also be on-site.

Can I bring my pet?
No pets are allowed on the festival site. Only registered assistance dogs are permitted.

Can I bring a sun tent or umbrella?
Small sun tents or umbrellas for shade are allowed in designated areas but must not obstruct views or block walkways.

Times & Schedules

What time do the gates open?

  • Campsites: Open Friday at 12pm and close Monday at 12pm.

  • Main Arena: Friday – 5pm (campers only). Saturday & Sunday – 10am–10pm (general admission).

How do I find out what’s on?
Visit the What’s On section of our website and browse by zone. Full schedules are released closer to the festival.

Safety, Security & Support

Can I leave and re-enter the site?
Yes, re-entry is permitted with a valid wristband.

What if I lose my child at the festival?
Please go immediately to the nearest steward or information point. We have a robust lost child procedure in place.

Is there medical support on-site?
Yes, a fully staffed medical tent will be available throughout the festival.

Is there security on-site?
Yes, trained security teams will be on site 24/7. Bag searches will be carried out at entry points.

Is alcohol allowed?
You may not bring your own alcohol onto the festival site. Alcohol will be available to purchase from licensed bars.

Practicalities

Is there lost property?
Yes, please visit the information point if you lose or find an item. After the event, check the Gloworm website for lost property updates.

What should I pack?
We recommend bringing:

  • Sturdy shoes and wellies (just in case!)

  • Sun cream, hats, and waterproofs

  • Reusable water bottles

  • Cash and cards

  • Your camping gear (if staying on-site)

Sustainability

Does Gloworm have a sustainability policy?
Yes! Please help us reduce waste by:

  • Using recycling points around the site

  • Bringing reusable bottles and cups

  • Avoiding single-use plastics

  • Taking all belongings and rubbish home

👉 If your question hasn’t been answered here, please use the contact form on our website. We aim to reply within 5 working days.