Camp Bestival has revealed its star-studded lineup for 2026, with Fatboy Slim, Self Esteem, and Bastille set to headline the family-focused festival at Lulworth Castle, Dorset. The four-day event, now in its 18th year, runs from July 30 to August 2 and promises a seaside-themed celebration packed with music, workshops, and family fun.
Fatboy Slim’s All-Day Takeover
Norman Cook, better known as Fatboy Slim, will lead the Castle Stage on Sunday with the festival’s first-ever “Fatboy Slim & Friends All Day Takeover.” The legendary DJ will be joined by surprise guests, including hip hop pioneers De La Soul. Festival co-curator Rob da Bank said, “Norman has been part of our story since the beginning, and we know he’s going to bring the party for the Sunday night finale.”
Bastille’s Camp Bestival Debut
Saturday night will see Bastille perform at Camp Bestival for the very first time. Their set follows a warm-up performance by rapper and producer Example, adding to the energy of the weekend.
Self Esteem and Billy Ocean on Friday
Pop powerhouse Self Esteem headlines Friday night, supported by soul legend Billy Ocean. Together, they set the tone for a diverse lineup that blends contemporary pop with timeless classics.
A Diverse Lineup Across Genres
The festival’s eclectic mix includes indie veterans Black Grape, drum and bass icons Fabio & Grooverider, DJ Fat Tony, Josh Wink, and Toploader. Rising stars such as Brooke Coombe, Ellur, and The Guest List will also take the stage. Festival favourites Joe Marler, Sara Cox, Dick and Dom, Mister Maker, Blippi, and Mr Tumble return to entertain younger audiences, reinforcing Camp Bestival’s reputation as a truly family-friendly event.
Reinventing Family Time
Curators Rob and Josie da Bank describe Camp Bestival as their quest to “reinvent family time.” Josie explained, “I teleport myself back to my own childhood and think about all the things that made me feel really happy and free.”
This year’s seaside theme will be reflected not only in the music but also in the activities. Fatboy Slim joked, “I can’t think of anybody more qualified than me to be providing the authentic seaside experience.”
Workshops and Family Activities
Beyond the music, Camp Bestival offers hundreds of family activities. Highlights include:
- The Allotment: Seed-sowing workshops and a quirky “Vegetable Museum” curated by gardener August Beth.
- Beekeeping sessions: Led by a local Dorset apiarist.
- Earth’s Crust Bread School: Baking lessons with artisan baker David Wright.
- Shakespeare’s Globe workshops: Transforming children’s stories into interactive drama.
- Dance classes, trampoline parks, and educational workshops for all ages.
A Multigenerational Festival
Fatboy Slim summed up the spirit of Camp Bestival: “The genius of Camp Bestival is the multigenerational raving. It’s kind of for kids, but it’s kind of for adults too. The two seem to co-exist in a very interestingly symbiotic way.” With its blend of headline acts, family activities, and seaside fun, Camp Bestival 2026 looks set to deliver another unforgettable summer experience.
