WILD CANVAS

 

From 7 – 26 August 2025, Wild Canvas pops up once again on the grassy banks of the River Great Ouse in Bedfordshire, inviting families and friends to slow down, stretch out and soak up three weeks of live music, workshops and open‑air adventure. Think of it as a summer holiday and boutique festival rolled into one—minus the crowds and late‑night queues.

Traditional Camping

Choose a roomy pitch across three car‑free meadows and wake to birdsong instead of traffic. The open layout keeps kids in sight and nature ever‑present—ideal for laid‑back family camp‑outs or friendship circles of tents.

Nova Air Domes

Tucked into a quiet corner of the site, new 5‑metre Nova Air Domes offer an obstruction‑free, geodesic space furnished with a double bed, two singles, cosy linens, soft lighting, outdoor seating and a private fire‑pit—glamping comfort with star‑gazing roofs.

Riverside Bell Tents

Prefer canvas charm? Riverside bell tents come fully dressed with real beds, bedding, ambient lamps, outdoor furniture and fire pits—book one or group several together for a stylish base camp.

Campervans

A limited number of campervan pitches sit in the main field close to facilities. Reserve early, park up and let the festival come to you.



Play All Day

  • Water & Wilderness: coached paddle‑boarding on the Great Ouse, orienteering, bushcraft, foraging walks and a free outdoor games club.

  • Creative Corners: arts‑and‑crafts workshops, circus skills, acrobatics, capoeira and dance sessions.

  • Well‑Being Hub: daily Rise‑and‑Move, yoga, Pilates, kids’ yoga, sound‑healing, one‑to‑one treatments and a wood‑fired sauna overlooking the water.


Sounds of Summer

Weekends come alive with DJ sets, acoustic acts, campfire sing‑alongs, storytelling circles, a talent show and a superhero disco just for kids—enough rhythm to feel festive, with quiet hours that respect early risers.

Guido Spannocchi Quartet
Saturday 23 August

Vienna-born, London-based saxophonist Guido Spannocchi brings his acclaimed quartet to Wild Canvas 2025, debuting a suite of brand-new, original compositions. Joining him are:

  • Danny Keane on keys—renowned for his collaborations with Anoushka Shankar and Afro-jazz pioneer Mulatu Astatke

  • Jihad Darwish on bass—whose credits span work with Shabaka Hutchings and Van Morrison

  • Pete Hill on drums—co-founder of Alfa Mist’s rhythm section and recent sideman for Ashley Henry and Jo Harrop

Fresh from sold-out shows at Ronnie Scott’s, The Vortex London, b.flat Berlin and Porgy & Bess Vienna, plus a standout set at the London Jazz Festival, this quartet promises an electrifying fusion of jazz tradition and cutting-edge creativity. Don’t miss your chance to experience their singular sound under the stars.



Fuel for Body & Soul

Barista breakfasts kick‑start the day, while Soulful Bowls dish up nutrient‑packed lunches beside rotating food trucks. Signature flavours include De Nadas—hand‑made Argentinian empanadas baked (never fried) with 100 % Argentinian dough—and award‑winning ice cream from local favourite Riverside Dairy. Evenings centre on the Wild HQ Courtyard Bar, pouring Brewpoint craft beers, curated wines and weekend‑only cocktails around a glowing fire pit.


Why Wild Canvas?

Because it’s festival freedom without wristband stress, a camping trip super‑charged with creativity, and a riverside retreat where kids roam safely while adults rediscover hammock naps, silent‑disco sunsets and the simple joy of cooking over a fire. With tickets capped at just 150 pitches and glamping units, the atmosphere stays friendly, spacious and unspoiled—exactly how summer should feel.

 
PassionsMary FadahunsiFestival, August, events