Festival Calendar UK

Bearded Theory Festival

East Midlands

Overview

Bearded Theory is a multi-award-winning independent music and arts festival. Established in 2008, it has grown from a birthday celebration behind a pub to one of the UK's fastest-growing festivals. The event features nine stages, including the large Main Stage, and hosts a diverse line-up of artists across genres like punk, indie, and electronic music. Beyond music, Bearded Theory offers a rich cultural experience with art installations, workshops, and a Children's Village. The festival prides itself on its community-focused atmosphere and commitment to supporting local and national charities.

Line-up

View the official line-up here.
Note: Line-ups can evolve/change closer to the event — check back regularly to stay up to date.

Categories

Tags

Location

Bearded Theory Festival takes place at: Catton Park, Walton-upon-Trent, Derbyshire, DE12 8LL. The festival is held in a privately owned park estate near the border of Staffordshire and Derbyshire, offering open fields, woodland edges, and gently rolling countryside. With its natural layout and long-standing use as a festival site, Catton Park provides a scenic and well-organised setting for music, camping, and community activities.

Travel Info

See Bearded Theory’s Travel Page for the latest directions, transport options, and arrival info.

Tickets

Basic Price Range:  £65 - £250

Tickets to Bearded Theory Festival can be purchased via Bearded Theory Tickets Page.

Options include:

  • Adult Weekend (Thursday - Sunday)
  • 12 - 16 Years (Thursday - Sunday)
  • 8 - 11 Years (Thursday - Sunday)
  • 0 - 7 Years (Thursday - Sunday)

Upgrades and Extras:

  • Wednesday Early Entry
  • Parking Pass
  • Campervan/Caravan Pass
  • Campervan/Caravan + Power Hookup Pass

Accommodation

Bearded Theory Festival  is a camping festival, please bring your own equipment.

Campsite Options:

Campsite Regulations:

  • No glass
  • No fires
  • No pets

Hotels & B&B's

If you're not keen on camping, Bearded Theory provide a list of nearby alternative accommodation, see their FAQ page, scroll down a bit and find the heading "What Accommodation is Nearby?".

Packing Checklist:

Ensure you're fully prepared for your festival adventure with our Essential Packing Checklist.

Accessibility

Bearded Theory Festival  is committed to making their festival accessible for all, offering a range of services for attendees with disabilities.

The event features a managed flat Accessible Camping Area near the main arena, with electric charging points for wheelchairs and medical equipment. Facilities include accessible toilets, showers, and viewing platforms at the Main and Second stages. The festival provides free companion tickets for eligible individuals and offers medical storage for prescription medications. Additionally, equipment hire is available through Mobility Hire for off-road mobility scooters and wheelchairs.

While the site is predominantly flat, some areas may be uneven, and visitors should be aware that strobe lighting may be used during performances. More details on Bearded Theory's accessibility page.