I’ve been going to festivals for *checks watch* two decades now. And I can truly say, hand on heart, that there is a festival for everyone – no matter your taste or age. Over the weekend I was lucky enough to be invited to TK Maxx presents Lytham Festival for the first time, and it surprised me – in a very good way indeed. So if you’re a festival first-timer, or you’re simply looking for fun in the (hopefully) sun at a smaller-than-many event, listen up, because this one is for you.
LOCATION
Set in the small seaside town of Lytham, just down the coast from Blackpool, it’s easily accessible by car and train, and there are plenty of buses and coaches laid on over the festival too to ensure guests are whisked there and back home again. I drove from Manchester, and parked in the festival’s main car park, which is right next to the venue. There’s also a park and ride for late comers. Street parking is limited, and saved for locals. You can stay the night, of course, but hotels and Airbnbs are best booked well in advance as there is limited availability.
BIG NAMES
In 2025, Lytham Festival ensured some of the world’s biggest stars were seen in the north of England. On this year’s stellar line up there was Stevie Wonder, Alanis Morissette, Simple Minds & Texas and Justin Timberlake. I went to the latter.
SMALL AND CALM
Despite attracting some huge names, the capacity of Lytham Festival is fairly small at 25,000. When you compare this to some of the bigger day festivals, especially those like British Summer Time in Hyde Park, which welcome 65,000 guests per day, it means Lytham is a manageable and unintimidating option, perhaps ideal for those looking to go to their first festival. Less gargantuan crows sweeping back as far as the eye can see also means at Lytham you can see your favorite singer up close and personal from almost anywhere on site. Me and JT? Best friends now.
FAMILY FRIENDLY
While I roamed around Lytham Festival waiting for Justin to begin, I noticed a lot of children. As a mum of two myself I made a mental note to bring them both next year to join in the fun. The atmosphere throughout was calm and organised, and there was plenty of room, especially at the back, for families to spread out – even sit down on blankets. While there was no dedicated kids area, it felt like a safe space.
GOOD VIP
I’ve been lucky enough to frequent many a VIP section, and Lytham’s was a good’un. Right at the front of the site and named The Garden, there was a Champagne bar inside, some well-made burgers, flatbreads et al, nice loos and lots of deckchairs and benches to lounge about on. But the best bit? Unlike some other VIP areas, you could see the stage from this one and didn’t need to leave it.
SEE YOU IN 2026
Dates have just been released for next year’s Lytham Festival, which will take place Wednesday July 1st until Sunday July 5th. And I for one cannot wait. The kids and I will see you at the front!