Everything you need to know about the 2025 Reading and Leeds Festivals
Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned festival-goer, this guide has you covered. From where to camp and who to watch, to where to grab a great pint in between sets, here's everything you need to know to make the most of Reading and Leeds 2025 — including our top picks for the best pubs in Leeds and Reading to round out your weekend.
How Reading and Leeds became the UK’s favourite dual festival
Reading Festival is the granddaddy of UK music festivals. First held in 1961 as the National Jazz Festival, it has evolved over the decades into a cultural icon. Originally rooted in jazz and blues, the festival quickly embraced rock, punk, and metal in the '70s and '80s, becoming a mecca for fans of heavier music.The introduction of Leeds Festival in 1999 came in response to overwhelming demand, offering a northern counterpart to Reading's southern stronghold. This expansion gave birth to a unique dual-city model: the same acts playing on alternating nights in different locations. As one artist headlines Reading, another lights up the stage in Leeds, then they swap, giving both audiences a full taste of the line-up.
Over time, the festival has embraced an increasingly diverse range of genres. What was once seen as a rock-only affair now spans indie, grime, pop, electronic, punk, and alternative. Legendary moments like Nirvana’s 1992 set, Radiohead’s return in 2009, and Stormzy’s game-changing 2021 headline have cemented Reading and Leeds as places where musical history is made.
The festival now attracts over 200,000 attendees across both sites and is considered a rite of passage for UK teens, students, and music lovers of all stripes. Whether you're drawn to mosh pits or mellow singalongs, Reading and Leeds are the places to be on the August bank holiday weekend.
Reading and Leeds 2025 line-up highlights
The 2025 edition is already shaping up to be a classic, with a heady mix of global headliners and exciting new names. Here’s a closer look at who’s playing and why you won’t want to miss them.
Headliners
Chappell Roan — One of the most buzzed-about artists in recent years, Chappell brings theatrical pop, infectious energy, and a strong online following. Her live shows are colourful, empowering, and full of surprises.Hozier — The Irish singer-songwriter behind "Take Me to Church" and "Eat Your Young" brings haunting vocals and soulful anthems. Expect goosebumps and huge crowd singalongs.
Bring Me The Horizon — Known for blurring the lines between metalcore, electronic, and pop, BMTH are an explosive live act with a massive fanbase. Expect fireworks, both literal and musical.
Travis Scott — One of the biggest names in global hip hop, Scott's shows are high-octane spectacles. His Leeds and Reading appearances are a European exclusive this year and are sure to be a cultural moment.
Other major acts to watch
Becky Hill — Her voice powers some of the UK’s biggest dance hits. Becky’s sets are pure energy – perfect for late-night raving.
Bloc Party — Indie royalty from the 2000s, returning with fresh material and classic anthems from ‘Silent Alarm’ and ‘A Weekend in the City’.
The Kooks — Another nostalgic favourite, their sun-drenched tunes are made for festival crowds.
Enter Shikari — Always unpredictable, always brilliant. Their genre-defying mix of rock, electronica, and politics makes for a high-impact performance.
AJ Tracey — Flying the flag for UK rap, AJ Tracey brings smart lyrics and slick production to the big stage.
Emerging acts worth discovering
High Vis — Post-punk grit with heart. Their raw, anthemic sound and honest lyrics have earned them a cult following. Expect a powerful live show.Sea Girls — Melodic indie rock with big choruses and festival-ready hooks.
Sofia Isella — One to watch for alt-pop fans. Sharp lyrics, dreamy vocals.
The Linda Lindas — Teenage punks from LA with infectious energy and strong messages.
Suki Waterhouse — Model-turned-singer with a growing cult following and a nostalgic sound.
Essential festival tips to level up your weekend
Whether you’re a Reading regular or a Leeds first-timer, a little planning can make your festival experience even better. Here are some top tips to help you stay comfortable, safe and ready to enjoy every set.
Camping hacks
Check the site map early – The camping areas on each site are split into zones with different vibes. At Reading, the Yellow and Green campsites are ideal for a lively atmosphere, while White, Brown and Purple tend to be quieter. At Leeds, Yellow and Blue bring the party, while Green offers a more peaceful spot.
Buy a big enough tent - When a camping tent says it’s a 2-man tent, that means 2 people with no bags. A 2-man tent is ideal for one person, but if there are two or more of you, look for a tent that’ll comfortably fit both your ‘housemates’ and your belongings.
Quiet camping exists – In recent years, both festivals have introduced designated quiet zones – perfect if you're looking to recharge properly between sets.
Get there early – Especially if you’re picky about where to pitch. Popular spots fill up fast on Thursday.
Re-entry policy
Got your weekend wristband? You’re free to come and go. This is a game-changer if you fancy nipping into town, grabbing a pub meal, or freshening up away from the crowds. (More on that later…)Festival packing list
The British weather is famously unpredictable. Make sure your bag includes:
- A sturdy tent and groundsheet
- Waterproof layers (yes, even if it’s sunny)
- Warm clothes for chilly nights (a woolly hat may sound ridiculous in August but you’ll thank yourself in the early hours)
- Biodegradable wipes and hand sanitiser
- A reusable water bottle – free refills are available
- Power bank (or two!) to keep your phone alive
- Earplugs – because 3am singalongs are real
Be a good guest
These festivals are built on community spirit. Respect the land, your neighbours, and the crew that make it all happen. Always use bins or take your rubbish with you. And if you see someone struggling, check in. Festivals are better when we look out for each other.The best pubs in Leeds for festivalgoers
There’s nothing like a proper pub to start the party or wind things down. Whether you’re heading to Leeds Festival from the city centre, arriving by train, or just fancy a breather from the campsite, these local Greene King pubs in Leeds are well worth a stop.There’s more to Leeds Festival than cold tents and lukewarm cans. If you’re making a weekend of it, these pubs are the places to gather, recharge and chat about the epic performances you’ve seen over an ice-cool pint:
Templar Hotel, Leeds
Just off Merrion Street and close to the action, the Templar Hotel is a proper city pub with plenty of room to breathe. Inside, you’ll find a cracking selection of real ale, plenty of great low and no-alcohol choices if you’re taking a break, and match day energy when the sport’s on. Outside, there’s a beer garden for soaking up the last of the summer sun.
As one of the more popular Leeds Festival pubs, it’s a great pick if you’re arriving early and want a pint before heading to Bramham Park, or need somewhere to sit down and relive the headline sets with your mates once you’re back in town.
Griffin, Leeds
Right next to Leeds Station, the Griffin is the kind of place that knows how to look after people. There’s plenty of space to take that heavy backpack off your shoulders, grab a drink and get your bearings – whether you’re just off the train or about to hop on one.
Expect a steady flow of festivalgoers, classic pub food and a team that knows the drill when it comes to big weekends. If you’re kicking things off or catching your breath before the journey home, this is a solid shout.
Dragon, Leeds
A little further out from the city centre, the Dragon has that laid-back feel you sometimes need mid-festival. There’s parking out front, EV charging if you need it, and plenty of space inside to escape the buzz for a bit.
You’ll find hearty pub classics on the menu, live sport on screen, and a mix of locals and out-of-towners sharing stories from the night before. One to keep in your back pocket if you’re driving, decompressing or just after something a bit more low-key.
Pubs in Reading to explore between sets
Reading’s city centre is just a short walk from the festival site, and sometimes, slipping out for a proper pint and a bite to eat is exactly what you need. These pubs in Reading are all within easy reach and offer a welcome change of pace from the campsite crowds.
Outlook, Reading
Perched on the riverside and just a few minutes from Reading Station, the Outlook is a favourite for festivalgoers who want to swap the mud for the comfort of a warm pub and a tasty meal served on a proper plate. It’s got that relaxed, easy-going feel — plenty of space, cold drinks, and a beer garden sitting right on the river.
Inside, there’s shuffleboard and live music nights, making it a great stop between sets or a winding-down spot after the headliners. If you’re planning a town run, this is one of those Reading Festival pubs that’s worth building your route around.
White Horse, Emmer Green
A little further out but well worth the detour, the White Horse is a popular local: friendly, familiar and always up for hosting a crowd. It’s a great pick if you’re with a group and looking for a Sunday roast or a chilled pint away from the festival buzz.
Expect a cheery welcome, plenty of screens for the sport, and delicious pub food that’s guaranteed to hit the spot after a few days of noodles and cereal bars. If you’re staying nearby, make this one your weekend local.
Water Tower, Tilehurst
For those heading in from the west side of town or parking up near Tilehurst, the Water Tower is a great place to start your day or take a breather. It’s spacious, friendly and geared up for summer weekends – with flame-grilled mains, refreshing drinks and an outdoor area that comes alive in the sunshine.
There’s also plenty of seating indoors if you’re escaping the weather, plus big screens if you’re keeping an eye on the scores between sets.
Make the weekend your own
Whether you’re front row for Travis Scott, belting out Bloc Party’s biggest hits at the top of your lungs or discovering your new favourite band in the tents, Reading and Leeds 2025 is yours to shape. Some come for the headliners, others for the chaos, the community or the chance to say, “I was there.”Whatever your style, a great pub stop can make all the difference. It’s where you meet before the gates open, refuel between sets or toast the weekend before heading home. And with Greene King pubs across both cities, you’re never far from a perfectly poured pint and tasty plate.
We’re ready when you are. Cold drinks, good food, no wristband required.