My first Wilderness and I had a great time. I definitely agree with lots of the comments on here about the downsides to the festival. According to a few people they threw it all together very quickly as they were waiting for confirmation that the 19th July lifting of restrictions was actually going ahead. This is the reason that there were less toilets, showers, wood chip for mud and security in general.
We discovered that walking to the arena entrance from the family and meadow side of the campsite, you could literally walk right into the arena with your beers or gin and tonics in hand. Although this was because of lack of security, it actually created no issues and was really nice.
The budget cuts were so obvious on the main stage line up. Loyle Carner has previously had a great band but clearly they didn’t pay him enough for that. Still really enjoyed his set. I love Jamie XX but his set wasn’t as good as it has been before. Rudimental were incredible.
The Atrium was a really good place to be for a variety of acts. But it’s a shame that there was not more music at the festival as a whole. Lots of stages/bars playing very similar music.
Overall, great festival weekend. If I had been before then maybe I’d be more disappointed but as a first time, it’s really promising.
